Table of contents for 2025-05-02 in Star

Steelmaker ArcelorMittal warned Wednesday that tariff uncertainty could cause further economic disruption as its global footprint helped it weather the turbulence in the first quarter. The Trump administration has slapped 25 percent tariffs on imports of aluminium and steel, but its wider tariff measures on its major trade partners -- many of them on hold as negotiations are under way -- threaten to stall global economic growth as both businesses and consumers hold back on purchases. "Heightened uncertainty around the terms of global trade is hurting business confidence and risks causing further economic disruption if not quickly resolved," ArcelorMittal's chief executive Aditya Mittal warned. However, the company beat analyst expectations by posting a net profit of $805 million in the first quarter, although that was a decline of 14 percent…

The revised budget includes processes as set out in the Money Bills and Related Matters Act Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has assured the country the National Treasury has already commenced work on developing a new fiscal framework that will maintain the trajectory toward debt stabilisation. This is a crucial element in strengthening the country's public finances amidst deteriorating fiscus. In March, Treasury projected that gross debt-to-GDP will stabilise in at 76.2% of GDP in the 2025/25 fiscal year, compared with 76.1% in the 2024/25FY, before declining gradually thereafter. It comes after Godongwana decided to rescind his decision to implement a 0.5 percentage points increase in the value-added tax (VAT) following litigation. The VAT increase proposal was in a bid to raise about R60 billion for the fiscus, which is facing…

African countries have started a dialogue with major credit ratings agencies seeking a fair and just systematic ratings to their sovereign credit statuses in a bid to reshape the continent's financial landscape. This comes afte a pivotal dialogue convened in Washington, uniting African institutions and global credit rating agencies to explore the creation of a fair and inclusive credit rating ecosystem tailored for Africa amid rising market volatility and sovereign defaults. This engagement, which unfolded on the sidelines of the 2025 IMF–World Bank Spring Meetings, has marked a significant step toward addressing the myriad challenges faced by African economies in the global financial landscape. With South Africa chairing the G20 and the African Union expecting permanent status in 2025, the urgency for an African-led credit rating solution is more pressing…

MTN Nigeria Communications has reported a substantial increase in its subscriber base and an financial turnaround for the quarter ending March 31. The mobile network operator and biggest subsidiary of JSE-listed MTN Group added 3.2 million new subscribers, boosting its total subscriber count by 8.2% to reach 84.1 million in a period marked by economic challenges. Once jeopardised by macroeconomic policy shifts that led to the naira's substantial depreciation, MTN Nigeria’s latest results reveal a robust recovery. In a stark contrast to a taxed loss of N392.7 billion during the same period last year, the company announced a profit of N133.7bn, reflecting an ability to adapt and thrive amidst economic turbulence. “We reported a significant turnaround in our bottom line. This reflects the successful delivery of the five strategic priorities…

Jubilee Metals Group, the diversified metals recovery company with operations in South Arica and Zambia, said Wednesday that the trials of processing various high-grade copper ores at its Roan concentrator are nearing completion. The results from these trials will be used to select material for a long-term supply agreement, the company said in an update of its Zambia operations on the JSE’s news service. Finalisation of the trials on the various types of high-grade materials will be completed over the coming two weeks, which is critical to the selection of the optimal mix of high-grade copper materials. “The initial results have confirmed the potential for Roan to maintain a significant increase in copper production rate on the high-grade copper material, which supports the decision to transition Roan to this high-grade…

Mormons have been low-key dominating the reality TV scene, and we’ve all been here for the unexpected drama. From Sister Wives to Salt Lake City’s snowflake-wielding Real Housewives, and even Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey on Netflix (a dark dive into the FLDS), there’s something about the intersection of strict religious rules and modern chaos that’s just too juicy to ignore. But when The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives hit our screens, even the most seasoned reality TV junkies were foaming at the mouth. Season one gave us TikTok’s wildest Mormon moms: Taylor Frankie Paul, Demi Engemann, Jen Affleck, Jessi Ngatikaura, Layla Taylor, Mayci Neeley, Mikayla Matthews, and Whitney Leavitt. Serving up chaos, cocktails, and a little bit of “soft swinging” on the side. Forget the stereotype of wholesome housewives…

President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the establishment of a commission of inquiry to investigate why apartheid-era crimes, referred to by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), have not been prosecuted. This decision follows a lawsuit filed by 25 families of victims who allege that top government officials obstructed cases referred by the TRC to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). The inquiry aims to address long-standing grievances over the lack of accountability for human rights abuses during apartheid. ​ However, some critics argue that this move may be more of a public relations exercise than a genuine effort to deliver justice. The ANC did not meet the 50% threshold at the 2024 national general elections, which led to the country having a Government of National Unity. As the ANC under…

Cracking down on fraud, police have arrested a 60-year-old man who allegedly posed as a state official and attempted to extort R15 000 from a woman by promising to secure her son a job in the Department of Correctional Services. According to Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the suspect, Azwindini Gabriel Mugwari, was arrested on April 29 in the Sibasa area under the Thohoyandou policing precinct. Mugwari allegedly posed as a Department of Correctional Services officer and promised to help a woman secure employment for her son. The incident reportedly took place last year on September 11, 2024. "It is alleged that on 11 September 2024, a female complainant was approached by an unknown African male who identified himself as a Correctional Services warder based in Thohoyandou. He claimed…

After another bruising defeat to the Umkhonto Wesizwe Party (MKP) in a by-election in KwaZulu-Natal, the ANC is expected to face an uphill battle to win back voters in the province. This is according to political analyst Daniel Silke, who stated that Wednesday’s victory of the MKP in the by-election in Mandeni indicates that the ANC faces a significant challenge in regaining its dominance in the province. The ward was previously held by the ANC. “There is no doubt that the ANC continues to face an uphill battle in KZN as it tries to reclaim lost ground. The party remains, broadly speaking, in disarray in KZN, and the inability of the party to begin a turnaround strategy is really reflected in these kinds of election results. All in all, this…

The Khuma Film Festival makes a triumphant return for its second edition, set to light up the Matlosana community from May 27 to 30. With an exciting three-day celebration of film and creativity, the event will be held at the Phillemon Masinga Stadium Hall in Khuma, North West. This year's festival will see the talented Neo Ntlatleng, known for his roles in productions like Empini, taking charge as festival director, promising a weekend filled with passion and purpose for local filmmakers and audiences alike. Building upon the success of its inaugural edition, the festival will feature an array of engaging events designed to inspire and educate the next generation of cinematic storytellers. Attendees can look forward to insightful panel discussions, hands-on masterclasses, celebrity school tours, and workshops aimed at demystifying…

The Democratic Alliance (DA) will use the upcoming meeting of the Portfolio Committee on Defence on 9 May to question Minister Angie Motshekga on the SANDF’s troubled deployment and disorderly withdrawal from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The withdrawal of South African troops from eastern DRC has been marred by poor planning, vague objectives, and a disturbing lack of transparency. What should have been a coordinated and strategic exit has instead become a confused and dangerous process, placing our soldiers at risk and leaving the nation with more questions than answers. The SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC), whose mandate effectively expired in March, is now pulling out of Goma and Sake — areas where South African troops have remained for months following the deadly events of January. Parliament…

Kaizer Chiefs will be under immense pressure to deliver what may be their most pivotal result of an up-and-down season when they host arch-rivals Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium on Saturday (3pm kick-off). Amakhosi are in danger of finishing outside the top eight for a second consecutive season, currently sitting ninth with 30 points – level with Chippa United, who still have a game in hand over the Soweto side. This will be the first of two Soweto Derbies between the sides, with a high-stakes Nedbank Cup final set for exactly a week after their league clash at Moses Mabhida Stadium – where more than just pride will be on the line, as both clubs are in desperate need of victories in both encounters. Nasreddine Nabi and his charges suffered…

THE importance of Kaizer Chiefs getting a positive result in Saturday’s Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates cannot be overestimated. Granted, the big one is next weekend’s Nedbank Cup final clash between the two clubs in Durban, which will be much more tangible for the Amakhosi, given they will have a trophy to show for their efforts should they dethrone the champions. But the value of securing three points in their home match at the FNB Stadium (3pm kick-off) would be massive for Chiefs as they look to avoid missing out on a top-eight finish two seasons in succession. Chiefs finished 10th last season, and are currently out of the top eight spots, with less than a handful of matches to go. It’s almost win or bust for the Amakhosi, and…

The clear and present danger facing the Proteas’ Women’s team in Friday’s Tri-Series ODI clash (6.30am start) against Sri Lanka is home team captain Chamari Athapaththu. The powerful left-handed opener has been a thorn in the Proteas’ side since first coming up against the girls in green way back in 2013. The intervening years have done nothing to diminish Athapaththu’s powers. In fact, the 35-year-old has only become stronger and more skilful, as she notably illustrated last year when she clubbed 258 runs to help Sri Lanka share a first-ever ODI series with the Proteas. Athapaththu’s magnificent 195 not out in Potchefstroom not only bettered her Proteas counterpart Laura Wolvaardt’s undefeated 184, but also helped Sri Lanka chase down a record 301 in one of the most memorable Women’s ODIs…

It took the Junior Springboks a wake-up call in the second half to get going in their Under-20 Rugby Championship opener against Argentina in Gqeberha on Thursday. A try shortly after the break by the Pumitas opened a double-score advantage to them to place pressure on the South Africans in front of their fans. But three additional tries by the home team, thanks to some enterprising play between the backline and forwards, secured a 36-25 victory at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. SA are atop the Championship standings with four points after New Zealand and Australia drew 29-29 in the first clash on Thursday. While the visitors were first to score in the second half, it was the South Africans who comfortably dominated proceedings as their opposition tired as the…

Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientso Ramokgopa has put forth a bold proposal aimed at rethinking the global approach to energy finance. Speaking on the G20 Transition Working Group, Ramokgopa urged the Summit to consider practical frameworks for concessional financing, de-risking energy infrastructure, and unlocking transmission grids—all crucial enablers for fostering inclusive growth across the globe. Speaking at the second day of the G20 Electricity Energy Summit in Cape Town, which focused on global energy efficiency strategies and affordability challenges, Ramokgopa said these were not abstract goals but preconditions for energy justice. Ramokgopa said the G20 countries were the next frontier of opportunity, representing more than 85% of global GDP and nearly 80% of global emissions, which brought responsibility, not only to immediate constituencies, but to the billions of people whose…

The recent April 2025 Household Affordability Index released by the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity Group (PMBEJD) has revealed that the average cost of the Household Food Basket has increased by R90.94 (1.7%) from R5 329.36 in March to R5 420.30 in April. This increase has ignited concerns from various civil society organisations regarding the affordability of food amidst rising living costs. According to the PMBEJD, of the 44 foods tracked in the basket in April, 24 foods increased in price, and 20 foods decreased in price. Mervyn Abrahams, PMBEJD programme co-ordinator, said food affordability remained a pressing issue, particularly in light of the year-on-year comparison, where the Household Food Basket has risen by R83.99 (1.6%) since April 2024 Abrahams said the details of the increases were stark, with…

Datatec, the international information and communications technology (ICT) company, was admitted to the OTCQX trading platform in the US on Wednesday to broaden international investor access. The share opened at $2.25 on the OTCQX Market on Wednesday. The over-the-counter market in New York is a platform for companies listed on a qualified international exchange to provide transparent trading to US investors using a US Dollar quoted share price. On the JSE, Datatec's share price was up by 1.68% to R58.27 on Wednesday afternoon, a price that was 59% higher than a year previously. It enables companies to disseminate their home market reporting to make their information available in the US. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial and reporting standards, follow best practice corporate governance, and demonstrate compliance…

Cybercrime has become the single biggest threat to businesses worldwide. According to the Allianz Risk Barometer 2025, cyber incidents — including ransomware attacks, data breaches and IT outages — are now the top global business risk, marking their fourth year at the top. A decade ago, only 12% of global respondents cited cyber as a major concern. In 2025, that number surged to 38%. Allianz noted, “Cyber is the top risk across North and South America, Europe, and Africa,” dominating industry concerns from aviation to legal services. More importantly, it now ranks as the number one risk in South Africa, overtaking long-standing issues like load shedding and political instability. This concern is not just theoretical Two recent, high-profile cyberattacks—one on mobile telecommunications provider Cell C and another on the South…

It has been another exciting week in the world of entertainment, with celebrities gracing the stages, screens and headlines. There has been no shortage of glamour and talent on display. In this week’s round-up, we bring you the highlights from the world of celebs. 1Cape Town International Jazz Festival highlights The Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) continued to solidify its status as Africa’s premier music showcase for the 22nd time, offering an immersive experience of world-class music, fine dining and luxury hospitality. Held on Friday and Saturday at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, the 2025 edition featured international acts like Masego, who brought his unique trap jazz sound, and American R&B singer Ari Lenox, who serenaded the crowd with her powerful and soulful voice. Local powerhouse Lira also…

A single mother of four is facing eviction after falling in arrears in paying her home loan. After several legal battles spanning nearly four years, her house was sold earlier this month at auction for a measly R5 000. Patricia Mzamo is devastated, as she has no idea where she and her children will end up. She does not dispute that the bondholder over her Randburg home – SA Home Loans – followed the legal route in trying to obtain payment after she fell in arrears. But Mzamo’s question is, why was the property sold at auction for R5 000, while she all along tried to negotiate a settlement with them? She said she was shocked when she recently received correspondence from SA Home Loans’ lawyers that the property…

With four reputable stages including the Dinaledi, Conga, Diphala, and Mbira stages, the 26th edition of the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz (SBJOJ) festival is poised to shine the spotlight on various jazz-inspired musical styles cutting across a range of world musical cultures and heritage. The much-anticipated festival will be making its return to the Sandton Convention Centre from Friday, September 26 to Sunday, September 28. Among those enlisted in this year's stellar line-up of icons and innovators who embody the soul of jazz are Oumou Sangare (Senegal), Esparenza Spalding, Jose James, both from the USA, as well as local stars that include Thandi Ntuli, Andile Yenana, Gabi Motuba, Billy Monama, Vusi Mahlasela, Moss Mogale, and Muneyi. In total, SBJOJ will feature more than 50 world-class performers from more than…

The music may have faded and the lights have dimmed on the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF), but the energy is still pulsing through the city. With over 24 000 people in attendance, the Mother City was alive with music, connection, and culture - an unforgettable experience that left fans, artists, and industry leaders breathless. And just as the city starts to return to its usual tempo, espAfrika, the powerhouse organisers behind the festival, have announced the date’s for next year’s festival – March 27 and 28, 2026. “This year’s festival was a labour of love, a celebration of resilience and a return to what we know Cape Town does best – host the world with style, sound and soul,” said Shaakirah Adams, the head of the Cape Town…

Any nuclear conflict between India and Pakistan will kill at least 50 to 125 million people, resulting in global climate catastrophes that would lower global temperatures and damage food production, resulting in famine that will be unprecedented in our recorded history. The direct effects of a nuclear exchange themselves would be apocalyptic. India and Pakistan have built 300 nuclear weapons collectively, ranging from tactical to strategic, that have first and second strike capabilities. According to reliable data, Pakistan has 130 nuclear weapons and India has 172. Both sides will probably use thermonuclear 200 kiloton weapons in the event of all conflict. Across the world, military conflicts are raging unabated, while the United Nations is powerless to intervene. When you read the news, it seems mankind is always at war somewhere.…

THE emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, most notably, tools like ChatGPT, has captured the world’s imagination, bringing with it both excitement and apprehension. AI is now firmly embedded in our daily lives, shaping how we communicate, access knowledge, and even educate. Higher education institutions globally are still also grappling with the full adoption and integration of AI both in curricula and practice. According to a recent executive briefing by the Digital Education Council on “AI Literacy for All”, universities are still concerned with academic integrity, practical implications for curricula, learning, teaching and research as well as technical complexities. This has implications then for scaling AI within institutions themselves. These complexities raise critical questions about the role of education and, in particular, tertiary institutions in society, the skills we prioritise,…

Orlando Pirates right back Bandile Shandu stood on business when he previewed Saturday’s Soweto derby clash against arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs (3pm kick-off). Deep in the bowels of The Venue in Melrose Arch on Thursday afternoon, Shandu evaded all personal questions as he answered about the derby. The media hounds didn’t only try to squeeze answers out of him on how he feels about being back on the field after a lengthy injury, but about the team’s recent losses as well. Pirates crashed out of the CAF Champions League semi-final after losing 3-2 on aggregate to Pyramids, with all the goals coming in the second leg in Cairo last Friday. And as if things couldn’t get worse, they lost 1-0 in the follow-up clash in the Premiership to Sekhukhune United at…

Some Bulls fans on social media bemoaned the fact that the Pretoria side opted not to kick a late penalty at goal in last week’s epic victory over Glasgow Warriors in Scotland. The outcry came about as another three-pointer would’ve denied the defending champions a valuable losing bonus point. It ended 26-19 at Scotstoun Stadium, which meant that Glasgow remained a point ahead of the Bulls on the United Rugby Championship log on 59, compared to 58 for the third-placed South Africans. But there was method to the madness. Coach Jake White explained afterwards that it was a case of securing the victory rather than risking a possible draw, as the ball could have bounced off the uprights or landed in Glasgow’s hands, from which they could launch a counter-attack.…

There will be one last shot at a piece of silverware for the Blitzboks when they start the SVNS World Championship in Los Angeles on Saturday. While a victory in Cape Town in December was the last time the Springbok Sevens lifted a trophy, they’ve shown glimpses throughout the season of their abilities, and will have to put everything together over the weekend if they want to win. It’s the all-important trophy they want to fight for in the one-off competition, and it will be a clear indication for head coach Philip Snyman of the growth or lack thereof in the side over the last couple of months. There is no argument that they are in the so-called ‘group of death’, facing last season’s Championship victors France, SVNS Series winners…

Orlando Pirates may have just played their last strong hand in the Premiership title race. And as close as they came, their latest defeat to Sekhukhune United could prove to be a critical blow – perhaps the final knock that will make it difficult for them to mount a serious pursuit of their long-awaited 10th league crown. Coming into the season, the Buccaneers were widely tipped as the most likely challengers to end Mamelodi Sundowns’ dominance. More than any other team, they seemed best equipped to launch a formidable campaign – and for large parts of the season, they did just that. Their MTN8 triumph earlier in the season stands as proof of the remarkable foundation laid by Jose Riveiro and his technical team – measured not just in trophies,…

Minister for Trade Industry and Competition (the dtic), Parks Tau, has clarified that the newly proposed R100 billion Transformation Fund will not leverage Competition Commission settlements as a means of financing. This statement comes in light of growing concerns regarding the Fund's financial structure and its necessity given ongoing black empowerment programmes already in place. During a media briefing on Wednesday, Tau asserted that the establishment of the fund is not intended to undermine existing empowerment initiatives. On the contrary, he described it as an aggregator of all current efforts, designed to augment resources from both government and private sector empowerment allocations, including direct equity contributions. "Competition processes with large transactions, mergers and acquisitions date from a process that fundamentally deals with competition issues and you cannot predetermined the outcome…

The Jobs Fund has announced a new funding round aimed at tackling the pressing employment challenges facing South Africa's green and informal economies. As unemployment rates soar, particularly among the youth and women, this initiative represents a concerted effort to stimulate job creation and foster inclusive economic growth. According to the National Treasury, the Jobs Fund has made significant strides in transforming the labour landscape since its inception, disbursing R7.4 billion to various partners. Treasury on Wednesday said the previous funding rounds resulted in the creation of more than 210 000 permanent jobs, alongside 114 534 short-term positions and internships. The support extended to more than 63 000 small, medium, and micro-sized enterprises (SMMEs) and approximately 16 000 emerging farmers speaks volumes of the Fund's commitment to economic upliftment. With…

Sibanye-Stillwater has announced achievements in its environmental stewardship, receiving an ‘A-’ rating for climate change disclosure and a ‘B’ rating for water disclosures from CDP, a highly respected non-profit organisation renowned for its global environmental disclosure system. Sibanye-Stillwater on Wednesday said this recognition underscored the company's commitment to transparent reporting and sustainable practices. The award-winning climate rating affirmed Sibanye-Stillwater's ongoing efforts to tackle the pressing challenges posed by climate change. Maintaining an ‘A-’ rating reflects the company’s sustained dedication to implementing strategies that align with its ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2040. This commitment is central to the Group’s operational ethos, which aims to foster resilience while contributing positively to local communities. In contrast, the Group’s water disclosure rating saw a slight decrease from an 'A-' to a…

Turkish cell phone group Turkcell on Tuesday won a Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) judgement that will allow its $4.2 billion (about R78bn) claim against MTN Group to be heard in a South African court. Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S (Turkcell) and its owned subsidiary, East Asian Consortium (EAC), previously instituted legal action in the High Court of South Africa against MTN and certain of its subsidiaries in 2013, in which action Turkcell and EAC made allegations of impropriety in the award of the first private mobile telecommunications license in Iran. MTN’s board appointed an independent special committee in 2012 to investigate the allegations and it exonerated MTN. The South Africa-based telecoms group, which operates in 16 pan-African markets, said Wednesday it would appeal the SCA decision. It said the judgement,…

l Festival De Mexico Prepare for a spicy weekend as this renowned event returns to Joburg this weekend. Apart from the culinary delights on offer, the event will see some of the biggest acts take to the stage. They include Shekhinah, Matthew Mole, Freshly Ground, DJ Kent, Kyle Cassim, Chrizz Beatz and Mojito Swing. There will also be a piñata showdown, a chilli-eating competition and other entertainment. Where: Montecasino’s Outdoor Event Area. When: Tomorrow until Monday, May 5. l Hobby-X 2025 Take a walk on the wild side as Hobby-X makes its return with a fresh new theme, “Retro Rewind”. The event will include classic trends and techniques revisited, while timeless hobbies, vintage crafting and traditional methods are reinvented. The new line-up features demonstrations, workshops and competitions. Where: Kyalami Grand…

Dummies (or pacifiers) can be a lifesaver for many parents, especially during those first few months. But as your little one becomes a toddler, you may start thinking about weaning them off the dummy. Prolonged use, especially after they turn two, could potentially lead to health issues. This can include dental issues, such as misaligned teeth or bite problems. It could also cause speech development delays, especially if the dummy is often in their mouth while talking. But many toddlers are so attached to their dummies they simply cannot be without them. This can make it extremely challenging for parents to get their little one to give them up. However, there are various ways that you can help make the transition smoother for both of you. Here are some tips…

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) described the recent murder of a Ngcobo-based rising star prosecutor as an attack on the rule of law after he was shot and killed earlier this week. NPA spokesperson, Luxolo Tyali, said the killing of Elona Sombulala, 30, who was acting as Regional Court prosecutor at the time of his murder, has sent shock waves through the legal fraternity. “It is with deep shock and profound sadness that the NPA confirms the untimely death of Elona Sombulula, a young District Court prosecutor, based in Ngcobo Magistrate’s Court. He was just 30 years old. He joined the NPA through the aspirant prosecutor programme in 2022. He was acting as Regional Court prosecutor when he was shot on the evening of Tuesday, 29 April 2025. “This devastating…

A 56-year-old man who sexually exploited his minor daughter will serve two life terms behind bars and an additional 3 713 years imprisonment following his conviction on more than 700 counts relating to rape, sexual assault, and sexual grooming. The man was sentenced at the High Court of South Africa, Eastern Cape Division in Gqeberha, said National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Luxolo Tyali. The man was sentenced after facing an extensive compilation of counts which included rape, sexual assault, sexual grooming, human trafficking, possession, production and procuring of child pornography, and exposing children and a person living with mental disability to pornography. The accused pleaded not guilty. However, he made certain admissions in terms of Section 220 of the Criminal Procedure Act. Tyali said the offences were allegedly committed from…

The Gauteng High Court, Johannesburg, has ordered the Road Accident Fund (RAF) to pay general damages to a man after it denied that a car accident occurred and ruled that the man was not liable for compensation. The plaintiff, Louis Bekker, told the court that he was involved in a car accident on April 15, 2017, while travelling with his family from Buffelspoort at Marumba to Mooinooi, North West Province. He stated that he was intoxicated, and as a result, his wife was the driver of the Isuzu bakkie, which belonged to his friend, Gerard Fourie, known as Fellies. He said they agreed with Fellies that he would take over the hire purchase instalment of the bakkie. The insurance policy was registered in his friend's name. “My wife Maria Bekker…

There are moments in sports that are impossible to quantify. These moments manifest as inner triumphs driven by determination, resilience and a strong desire to succeed, rather than being measured by time records or race outcomes. One such occasion for Sandile Mkhize is the Wings for Life World Run. Initially a personal test, the Wings for Life World Run has transformed into a worldwide event with no definitive endpoint, symbolising a commitment to a cause. Sandile, renowned for his unwavering positivity, sharp mind, and relentless determination, offers a grounded yet inspiring outlook from his wheelchair. Before the 2025 race, we spoke with him about mindset, preparation, and the deeper significance of each push forward. Q: Sandile, you’ve described the Wings for Life World Run as a powerful turning point in…

By any rational measure, South Africa is teetering on the edge of internal collapse. Crime has become as routine as sunrise. Murders occur at a pace that would shock even war zones, and law enforcement is either overwhelmed, outgunned, or just outright absent. As citizens lock their gates tighter and private security companies multiply, the unspoken reality is sinking in: the state has failed to keep its people safe. The statistics speak for themselves. According to the South African Police Service’s reports, violent crimes — including rape and murder — have spiked alarmingly. The daily body count doesn’t merely reflect societal decay; it screams it. And if we don’t take radical steps to address the root causes of this chaos, the consequences will be catastrophic. Former president Jacob Zuma, often…

For years, Windsor West residents in Johannesburg have endured a foul stench from sewage overflowing into the streets, despite repeatedly complaining to Joburg Water to no avail. Nerissa Mema, a resident since 2018, said the sewage issue persists, with overflowing sewage being a constant problem in some streets that seemingly never gets resolved. “Every time there is a problem, I call Joburg Water to report and I also call the City of Joburg to report the issue. Sometimes it takes a week, sometimes two weeks to fix it,” she said. When the sewage issue worsened this week, Mema took a video of the problem and alerted her Ward 98 councillor, Beverly Jacobs, after being ignored previously, warning her that she would take it to X if she didn't respond. “And…

Coach Miguel Cardoso lauded the unwavering attitude of Mamelodi Sundowns’ players following their commanding 3-0 Premiership victory over Richards Bay on Wednesday evening at Loftus Versfeld Stadium. This triumph, combined with a surprising 1-0 home defeat for second-placed Orlando Pirates at the hands of Sekhukhune United, has widened Sundowns’ lead at the top of the table to an impressive 12 points, placing them firmly on course for an eighth successive title. Cardoso was pleased that the Premiership title race had tilted in the Brazilians’ favour, but urged his troops to maintain focus and intent. “We played one more game today (Wednesday), five more games to go. If we get an extra advantage (Pirates defeat), fantastic, but it’s something we should manage. “It’s to keep on going... We need to win…

Orlando Pirates will enter the highly anticipated Soweto derby against Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Saturday (3pm kick-off) in an unfamiliar position, having suffered two damaging defeats – first in the CAF Champions League and then a league loss to Sekhukhune United. Despite the setbacks of the past week, the Buccaneers remain mathematically in the title race. Speaking ahead of yet another stern test against arch-rivals Chiefs, head coach Jose Riveiro expressed confidence that his team will remain focused and determined to end the season on a high. They will be determined to hit back after going down 1-0 to Sekhukhune on Wednesday at Orlando Stadium. “The mood in the camp is surprisingly good,” Riveiro said ahead of the match. “We have just come from training, and I can…

Despite mixed form from both clubs and Mamelodi Sundowns’ dominance, the Soweto Derby continues to hold its place as South Africa’s most anticipated and culturally significant football event. Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates will meet this Saturday at FNB Stadium in a Betway Premiership match, before facing off again a week later in the Nedbank Cup final at Moses Mabhida Stadium. Back-to-back derbies are rare, and while both teams find themselves in different positions on the table, the significance of the fixture hasn’t changed. Chiefs come into the weekend sitting in ninth place, out of the running for any league silverware. Pirates, meanwhile, are still mathematically in the title race, nine points behind Sundowns with two games in hand. While a league title push is a long shot, they have…

AmaZulu coach Arthur Zwane has described their penultimate Premiership clash against Polokwane City in Umlazi as the game of their lives. Usuthu will host City at King Zwelithini Stadium on Friday night (7.30pm kick-off) eager to bag all three points. This will not only be their penultimate game of the season, but one that could help them finish in the top eight after blowing hot and cold this campaign. AmaZulu have been their worst enemies this season as they dropped points that they were expected to bag, before beating Golden Arrows recently. As such, they are sixth on the log with 33 points, one ahead of the seventh-placed City, who still have a game in hand. So, should they ensure that they keep all points in Durban on Friday night,…