Table of contents for 2026-01-13 in Star

The proposed R3.4 trillion merger between mining giants Rio Tinto and Glencore could have significant knock-on effects for South Africa, which has increasingly lost its status as a domicile for major global mining companies. Analysts believe Rio Tinto’s interest in Glencore is largely driven by the Swiss-based group’s strong copper exposure, a commodity that has become central to the global energy transition and the expansion of artificial intelligence. However, the creation of what would be the world’s largest mining company would also have implications for South Africa, where Glencore maintains a sizeable operational and corporate footprint. Andrew Bahlmann, M&A specialist and CEO at Deal Leaders International, said in an interview on Monday that possible strategic repositioning of the merged entity will be impactful for Glencore’s ferrochrome, vanadium and other interests.…

Systemic innovation, rather than isolated technological fixes, will be critical to transforming global energy systems and accelerating a just energy transition, according to a new report released by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). Unveiled during a Ministerial Dialogue on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) at IRENA’s Assembly on Monday, the report finds that meaningful transformation occurs when technological advances are combined with innovation in policy, regulation, market design, system operations and business models. The study highlights 40 emerging and proven innovations, ranging from AI-driven and digital applications to smarter grid planning, decentralised and off-grid solutions, and new financing and ownership models. It concludes that only a systemic, integrated approach can deliver resilient and affordable power systems, expand energy access, and unlock the full potential of the global energy…

Tongaat Hulett’s Zimbabwe-listed unit, Hippo Valley Estates, is increasingly prioritising export markets after adequately supplying the domestic market, despite ongoing logistical, operational and cost pressures weighing on its performance. Tongaat Hulett, the South African agro-processing group, remains under business rescue following accounting and financial difficulties. However, its Zimbabwean operations have continued to operate fully, albeit under challenging conditions marked by infrastructure constraints and rising input costs. Hippo Valley CEO, Tendai Masawi, said on Monday that electricity costs remain a major pressure point for the sugar producer, even as power availability has improved. “While power availability has improved, the business saw an increase in the energy cost due to inconsistency in power supply with the plant experiencing peak hours of maximum demand charged at a higher rate of 23 US cents…

While Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube commended parents and teachers for their dedication in supporting Grade 12 learners throughout the year, Build One South Africa (BOSA) leader Mmusi Maimane has renewed calls for urgent systemic reform. The 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) results have been released as the country finds itself at the centre of a heated debate over the state of education. This comes amid Maimane’s warning that low pass marks mislead the public and mask deeper failures. He slammed the education system’s reliance on the 30% pass mark, saying that the figures used to celebrate student performance were misleading. “Today, South Africans are being deceived. A 30% mark is not a pass and should never be used for reporting system performance,” he said, adding that the celebrated pass…

Choosing a degree and university is one of the biggest decisions that learners and their families will have to make. Tuition fees vary across universities and programmes, and different degrees open doors to very different careers. Here’s a quick guide to the main degree types, what you might study, potential careers, who it might suit, and how to make sense of the costs. Bachelor of Arts (BA) What it is: A BA is a broad, humanities-focused degree covering subjects like languages, history, sociology, psychology, media, and the arts. Many universities offer different streams, such as digital arts, drama, or development studies. Potential careers Journalism, media and public relations. Teaching and education. Social work or counselling. Policy research or government roles. Cultural and arts management. Would suit you if ... You…

Almost 23 000 children in four provinces are still waiting for school places just days before schools reopen. A shortage of classrooms and teachers is making the challenge worse, especially as Grade R becomes compulsory across South Africa. Globally, about 60 million primary-age children are not enrolled in school at all. Roughly 1 in 10 children of primary school age remain out of school. This leaves parents asking two urgent questions at once: “How do we secure a place now?” and “What is our Plan B if we don’t?” Here are practical steps for families caught in placement bottlenecks – from documenting applications and tracking provincial deadlines to exploring recognised alternatives that keep learning on track: 1. Apply early to multiple schools. 2. Confirm acceptance of placement offers quickly. 3.…

For many matriculants, a gap year is not just about taking a break. Some are waiting for varsity acceptance, others did not get funding, and many simply need time to figure out their next move. Parents, on the other hand, often want reassurance that a gap year will be productive and not just a year lost. The good news is that a gap year can be a smart and valuable step if it includes earning money, gaining work experience and learning independence. From local jobs to work and travel opportunities, here are realistic ways matriculants can earn during a gap year. Work and travel For matrics who want adventure, work and travel programmes remain one of the most popular gap year choices. Cruise ships and yacht work Working on cruise…

The Bulls are set to travel to Pau in France with 15 Springboks in their touring squad as they look to arrest their worrying run of form in their final Champions Cup pool clash on Friday night. Despite being rooted to the bottom of their pool, the Pretoria-based side is still in the race for the playoffs, which means there is little room for experimentation or squad rotation. Under new head coach Johan Ackermann, the Bulls are desperate to halt a seven-match losing streak that has placed early pressure on the season and on a squad that has underperformed relative to its talent. Speedster Kurt-Lee Arendse and utility back Canan Moodie are back after concussions, but loosehead Gerhard Steenekamp will miss the trip through injury. Flyhalf Handré Pollard, fullback Willie…

The Africa Cup of Nations has reached the semi-final stage and a tournament devoid of shocks now offers up two mouthwatering ties with hosts Morocco looking to see off the challenges of their fellow continental heavyweights. Mohamed Salah’s Egypt, Victor Osimhen’s Nigeria and Sadio Mane’s Senegal all remain in contention to win the trophy in Rabat next Sunday, even if home advantage still makes Morocco favourites. World Cup semi-finalists in 2022, Morocco are Africa’s top-ranked team and approach tomorrow’s semi-final against Nigeria in the capital defending an unbeaten record since losing to South Africa at the last AFCON. Walid Regragui’s side have conceded just one goal in five matches in the ongoing tournament and doubts about their ability to handle the enormous pressure of playing at home were blown away…

The PSL Betway Premiership will resume earlier than initially scheduled, with fixtures starting next Monday rather than the previously planned Tuesday. This shift follows Bafana Bafana’s early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in Morocco, enabling a swift return to domestic football. Following a disappointing 2-1 round-of-16 loss to Cameroon, the national team has returned home earlier than expected, giving local clubs a two-week window to recover before the competitive resumption. The unplanned break is particularly timely for teams such as Orlando Pirates, which boasts a significant representation in the national squad. The rest period allows players to recover from chronic injuries, ensuring they are fit for upcoming league matches. Sundowns’ fixture change against newly promoted Orbit College, from Tuesday to Monday, is a strategic adjustment ahead…

There are football clubs in crisis, and then there is Manchester United – a club so committed to chaos that even pressing the reset button somehow involves scrolling backwards. With Ruben Amorim’s tenure now filed neatly under ‘it seemed like a great idea at the time’, the familiar question is being asked at Old Trafford: who next? And more worryingly, who again? Because whenever United wobble, the temptation grows to bring back a “safe pair of hands” – a former manager, a known quantity, a nostalgic comfort blanket – to “steady the ship” on an interim basis. José Mourinho. Ole Gunnar Solskjær, even the whisper of Erik ten Hag’s name will probably re-emerge if someone leaves the lights on too long in Carrington. It would be insanity, however comforting…

Power utility enters 2026 with an additional 4 400MW of available capacity, better than last year Eskom has entered 2026 with an additional 4 400MW of available generation capacity compared with the same period last year, underpinned by a marked improvement in the performance of its power stations, according to Eskom Group CEO Dan Marokane. In a statement on Monday, Marokane said South Africa returns from the holiday break to a structurally stronger system entering 2026 than in five years with the stability reflected not only in structural improvements in the generation fleet, but in fewer emergency interventions and improved maintenance discipline. Marokane outlined that since the results of the recovery plan include Eskom having occasionally pushed the Energy Available Factor (EAF) to 70% on 55 occasions since 2023. Other…

Industry experts have broadly welcomed the landmark 25-year partnership between Transnet SOC Ltd and International Container Terminal Services, Inc (ICTSI), saying the deal could mark a turning point for South Africa’s struggling port and logistics system. The agreement, officially signed in December, came into effect on 1 January 2026 and paves the way for the strategic redevelopment of Durban Container Terminal (DCT) Pier 2. Under the arrangement, Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) and ICTSI will jointly manage the upgrade and long-term development of the country’s largest container handling facility. Peter Besnard, CEO of the South African Association of Ship Operators and Agents (Saasoa), last week said DCT Pier 2 is a critical national asset, handling more than 70% of the Port of Durban’s container throughput and about 46% of South Africa’s…

Teyana Taylor’s star has never shone brighter. Over the past year, the multi‑talented entertainer has marked one of the most remarkable seasons of her career, earning major nominations, landing high‑profile acting roles, and reestablishing her voice in music. From commanding the big screen to delivering critically acclaimed performances on television and in film, Taylor is proving that her creative evolution is in full swing. The multi-hyphenate star has become a stand-out of the current awards season thanks to her performance in One Battle After Another. Her role in the film has earned her a Golden Globe win for Best Supporting Actress, marking a breakthrough moment in her acting career. The film’s cast has also received recognition during the awards circuit, further cementing Taylor’s place among Hollywood’s rising acting talents. Her…

The Department of Basic Education has urged National Senior Certificate (NSC) candidates who were unsuccessful in their initial examination attempt to take advantage of the official Second Chance Programme. The department said the programme is “provided free of charge to candidates who were unsuccessful in their initial attempt”. Eligible learners may register to re-write or add subjects without any payment, the department said, adding that this is “in accordance with the Department’s policies for the May/June examination cycle”. The DBE further stressed that it “does not endorse any private or commercial services that require payment for participation in the Second Chance Programme”. The department has encouraged candidates to access authentic information by contacting it directly or visiting its official website. “For authentic information, please contact the Department of Basic Education…

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has urged the government to empower both learners and teachers to use artificial intelligence (AI) as a developmental tool, expressing concern over the country’s lag in AI adoption. Lesufi spoke yesterday, at the MTV Innovation Centre ahead of the release of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination results. He joined Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube for a ministerial breakfast with the top achievers of the Class of 2025. Addressing the top students, Lesufi praised their dedication and talent. “Its always exciting to be in the company of these young people who are so gifted. They have the skills and talent to take our country forward. Let’s give them a round of applause – we are immensely proud of you.” He emphasised that education is the foundation…

We have been there. The stress, the nerves and the anxiety are at an all-time high as thousands await the matric results. That’s why we have a Matric portal to ease the stress and to help you navigate through it all. Matrics and parents, make sure you’re following the IOL Matric Portal, a dedicated section on IOL that brings you the latest news, information, and helpful advice on matric exams, results, and student support. Here’s what you’ll find on the portal: Latest Matric News: Updates on results release dates, exam developments, university admission timelines and more from reliable reporters. Advice and well‑being articles: Mental health is a huge deal, that’s why the portal also includes tips on coping with exam stress, parental support, and motivation as results approach. Career and…

The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) has warned matriculants and parents to be cautious of unregistered institutions that exploit desperation by offering fake qualifications and false promises of admission across the country. The warning comes ahead of the release of the 2025 matric results today, a period when many school-leavers rush to secure places in higher education and are most vulnerable to misleading claims and scams. SAQA’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Dr Makhapa Makhafola, said it is a time that learners and parents are easily targeted by institutions operating illegally or making false claims about accreditation and guaranteed admission. “While this period is one of hope, excitement and new beginnings, it is equally a time when learners and parents are most vulnerable to misinformation by unregistered institutions that seek to…

Every few years, when South Africa is struggling and the national mood is raw, the same idea resurfaces in the Western Cape dressed up in new language, polished by social media, and sold as “democratic self-determination.” Today it is called Cape Exit. Yesterday it had other names. The substance, however, has not changed. Let us say this plainly and without euphemism: this debate is not new, it is not progressive, and it does not represent the people of the Western Cape. It is an old politics of withdrawal repackaged for a new generation and Capetonians have consistently rejected it. CAPEXIT and its supporters speak loudly, but democracy is not measured by decibels. It is measured by numbers, mandates, and consent. Here are the facts: • In the most recent national…

Marques Ackerman has opened the batting in two matches for Durban’s Super Giants this season, and on both occasions, he’s walked out with cricketing royalty. In the first instance, Ackerman was partnered with New Zealand legend Kane Williamson, and the opening pair got the Super Giants off to a flyer with 39 runs being struck within the first four overs. The left-hander was the aggressor in the partnership with 27 runs off just 17 balls. “Yeah, very special walking out with him. I had a few dot balls and I mean, just his calmness and stuff in reiterating what good options are was really helpful,” Ackerman said of Williamson. At St George’s Park on Sunday, he had a new partner in Proteas T20I and Super Giants captain Aiden Markram. But…

FEW FIGURES in South African football have been as visible, as debated and as misunderstood as Bobby Motaung. For over three decades, his presence at Kaizer Chiefs has symbolised authority to some, nepotism to others, and continuity to those who understand the inner workings of the club. ‘Bobsteak’ has been praised, vilified, caricatured and scrutinised – often without context. Yet when the son of Amakhosi boss Kaizer Motaung speaks of his role, the language he uses is not that of power, but of service. “We are custodians,” he says. “We are serving.” That he does not say ‘I’ but rather ‘we’ goes smack against the general notion he is a spoilt son of the boss who sees the club as a “family business” in which his word holds sway. That…

The Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz) has raised concerns about the growing trade imbalance between South Africa and its BRICS partners, warning that the bloc has delivered limited economic benefits in its current form. According to a recent article, South Africa’s trade deficit with its BRICS partners has widened by $9.6 billion (about R157 billion), highlighting structural weaknesses in intra-BRICS trade. Wandile Sihlobo, Agbiz’s chief economist, on Monday said the grouping’s economic potential remains largely untapped. “The exception is China, with which South Africa has deeper trade relations, though more could be done in agriculture and other sectors of our economy if we had a free trade agreement,” he said. Sihlobo added that the path forward for this challenge is not necessarily to abandon the BRICS bloc, but…

MediCheck, representing over 1 500 affected members, has welcomed Discovery Health's announcement that it will absorb the full cost of a claims processing error rather than pursue recoveries from 16 500 Discovery Health Medical Scheme members. The decision, announced by Discovery Sunday night, follows a week of intensive engagement by MediCheck on behalf of affected members who faced recovery demands – in some cases exceeding R80 000 – for an administration error they did not cause. Discovery Health announced that it will cover the cost of a claims system error that resulted in the overpayment of certain Above Threshold Benefit (ATB) claims during 2025. Affected Discovery Health Medical Scheme members will not be required to repay any amounts related to the error, and no other members of the Scheme…

The number of South African titles on the global streaming platform Netflix is growing, and in 2026, viewers will be treated to more local productions. Netflix South Africa has announced several titles that are on the 2026 slate, and they have audiences ready to set their reminders. New to the slate is 180, a gritty thriller anchored by a strong Black male lead. The film stars some of the country’s most respected acting talent, Desmond Dube, Fana Mokoena, Prince Grootboom, Warren Masemola and Bongile Mantsai. The film explores the pressures of everyday South African life through the story of Zak, a reformed gangster whose attempt at a quiet life is shattered by a single, life-altering incident, which puts him on a path of revenge. Dube is no stranger to Netflix…

For thousands of pupils finishing matric each year, the question is not only what to study next, but whether they can afford to pursue their ambitions. In South Africa, the most expensive undergraduate degree at public universities remains medicine, formally known as the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB). At leading institutions such as the University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University, the University of the Witwatersrand and the University of Pretoria, annual tuition fees for medicine can range from about R60 000 to more than R110 000 a year. Yet, demand for these seats outstrips supply. Across South Africa’s medical schools, there are around 1 900 first‑year MBChB places available annually at the main public universities. This depends on the institution and year of study. That figure excludes…

While thousands of learners are anxiously awaiting their matric results today, educators and offender learners at Rustenburg prison school Thuto-Kitso Secondary School are aiming for a 100% pass rate and top accolades. They will have their national matric results announcement and award ceremony later this month, on January 19. The Department of Correctional Services said they are confident that all the learners will pass, following an academic year defined by high discipline, perseverance, and consistent educator support. The school has a proven record of success, producing several top achievers and enabling numerous inmates to progress to tertiary education. Educator Botshelo Tabane confirms the current cohort’s determination to succeed. “This group is focused not only on passing but on excelling and surpassing previous records,” Tabane stated. He highlighted the school’s sustained…

The breach of 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination papers originated from within the Department of Basic Education’s (DBE) secure national examinations environment, but the integrity of the overall matric results remains intact, according to interim findings released last week Friday. Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube released the findings of the independent National Investigation Task Team (NITT), which probed the leak of NSC question papers. The findings were accepted by Umalusi, which approved the release of the 2025 matric results and confirmed the credibility of the examinations. The interim report found the breach was localised and involved 40 candidates in the Tshwane area – a small fraction of the more than 900 000 learners who wrote the NSC exams in 2025. Seven question papers were confirmed to have been…

As the application season for learners seeking admission to tertiary institutions approaches, many students face challenges with the process. However, returning students or alumni often have a better perspective due to their experience. Rural learners are often at a disadvantage when applying for tertiary education, as they often lack adequate information about the application process. This information gap leads to wasted time and unnecessary physical travel, with students repeatedly visiting institutions for assistance on tasks that could be easily managed remotely. These tasks include online registrations, change-of-mind requests, accepting an offer and admission letters, which often do not require in-person interaction, especially considering the long distances these students must travel. During this time of year, long queues at institutions frequently prevent individuals from accessing necessary assistance. However, those who have…

Sunrisers Eastern Cape coach Adrian Birrell has stressed that his team remains steadfast on finishing in the top two after the Betway SA20 group stages. The two-times champions currently top the table with 19 points with three matches remaining - Paarl Royals have four - but stumbled against Durban’s Super Giants in a thriller at St George’s Park on Sunday. The victory would have ensured qualification for the playoffs and entrenched their position at the summit, but now they have allowed the chasing park to close in with just four points separating first and fourth. The two sides finishing first and second after the group stages are assured of a place in Qualifier 1 at Kingsmead on Wednesday, 21 January with a possible straight entry to the final at Newlands.…

Kaizer Chiefs have taken a concrete step in their pursuit of TS Galaxy forward Puso Dithejane after making direct contact with the player’s camp, signalling renewed intent to bring the former Amakhosi development product back to Naturena. Dithejane, who has enjoyed a standout campaign, has also been linked with Mamelodi Sundowns, but Chiefs now appear determined not to be left behind in the race for one of the Betway Premiership’s most in-form attackers. The 21-year-old has been a key figure for Galaxy this season, collecting multiple Player of the Match awards and two Player of the Month accolades, form that has inevitably drawn attention from the league’s heavyweights. Galaxy chairman Tim Sukazi has now confirmed that Chiefs officials have already made contact, not only with the player but also with…

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Khuliso Mudau has been linked with what could prove to be the standout move of the current transfer window, with Orlando Pirates reportedly emerging as his potential destination – a switch that would place significant pressure on the club’s existing right-back options. Following the shock transfer that saw Monnapule Saleng cross the divide to join rivals Sundowns – a move with direct implications for what is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing league title races in recent memory – the potential arrival of Mudau at Pirates would raise the stakes even further. Not only would he bring vast domestic and international experience, but he would also arrive with a reputation as one of the continent’s leading defenders. Mudau’s situation at Sundowns has been uncertain…