Tabla de contenidos para 2026-01-14 en Mercury

Maputo Port Development Company (MPDC) reported record volumes through 2023, while the expansion and investment of its logistics systems continued. JSE-listed trade corridor focused Grindrod said Tuesday the port handled a total of 32 million tons, a 3.4% increase compared to the previous year's 30.9 million tons. To provide an indication of the relative size of the port, the Port of Durban handles about 80 million tons a year, while Rotterdam's port in the Netherlands handled 435.8 million tons in 2023. "This performance reinforces the port's position as a key regional logistics hub and reflects the resilience and efficiency of the integrated port and corridor system," said MPDC CEO Osório Lucas in a statement. In Maputo Port, Grindrod operates and manages dry bulk and automotive terminals, handling exports and imports…

Taiwan has reached a “general consensus” with the United States on a trade deal, the democratic island’s negotiators said Tuesday, after months of talks. Taiwan and the United States began negotiations in April to hash out a trade deal after US President Donald Trump slapped a 32 percent tariff on Taiwanese exports, which was later lowered to 20 percent, as part of his sweep of measures against dozens of trade partners. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has pledged to boost investment in the United States and increase defence spending as his government tries to further reduce the levy on its shipments, as well as avoid a toll on its semiconductor chip exports. “The goal of the US-Taiwan tariff negotiations has always been to seek reciprocal tariff reductions without stacking tariffs, and…

Tharisa's share price surged 5.5% after reporting first quarter production as planned, while platinum group metal (PGM) prices averaged 13% higher. The JSE and London-listed chrome and platinum producer said Tuesday in a production report for its first quarter to December 31, 2022, that PGM recoveries improved at 78.8% from 61.7% in the first quarter of 2022, while chrome recoveries improved to 70.3% from 65.7%. The share price traded at R28.40 on the JSE in the afternoon, representing a sharp 88% increase in the price over 12 months. Planned risk mitigation was successful at the group in the quarter with double the rainfall and lightening events year on year. PGM prices averaged $2 208 per ounce versus $1615 for the 2025 financial year. The average chrome concentrate price was $276/t…

The release of the matric results is a high-pressure moment for many South African households. While many will be celebrating, some families will be facing the heartbreak of a "did not pass" notification. If your child received the bad news, your home might feel heavy with disappointment, confusion, or even anger. It is important to remember that while this feels like a finality, it is actually just a detour. Here is how you can help your child navigate this difficult time and find a way forward. Manage your own reaction first Before you speak to your child, take a moment to check your own emotions. It is natural to feel worried about their future or even embarrassed by what the neighbours might think. However, your child is likely already feeling…

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala scandal is refusing to remain locked away in the political closet, resurfacing yet again as ActionSA prepares a legal challenge that could force fresh scrutiny of events the state has tried to seal off from public view. In a statement yesterday, ActionSA National Chairperson, Michael Beaumont, said they had begun preparing legal papers to challenge the Independent Police Investigating Directorate’s (IPID) decision to classify its investigation report as “Top Secret”. The party’s action follows an appeal lodged last month, which IPID failed to respond to. ActionSA said the silence forms part of a broader pattern of obstruction that has marked its efforts since April 2025 to obtain the report. Those efforts were repeatedly delayed, including explanations from IPID that its email systems were down. The…

A 28-YEAR-OLD man convicted of the murder of KwaDukuza Munic- ipality traffic police senior superin- tendent Mariemuthoo Arumugam told the Durban High Court yesterday morning that he sympathises with the Arumugam family; however, he denied that he is the one who killed him. Arumugam was shot dead on November 4, 2024. The convicted killer — Philakahle Hloniphani Dladla from KwaMashu hostel — had attempted to appeal his conviction yesterday but was told that he had to be sentenced first. He was convicted after the court heard that Dladla boarded a taxi on November 4 at the KwaDukuza taxi rank, taking the front passenger seat. He ordered taxi driver Bheki Xulu to take the Groutville off-ramp, after which Dladla produced a firearm, robbed Xulu and the passengers at gunpoint. Arumugam, who…

Ethan Naicker, from Port Shepstone Secondary School, was named as KwaZulu-Natal's top matric achiever at the provincial matric awards ceremony yesterday. Naicker, whose academic journey has been marked by consistent growth and resilience, addressed provincial leadership, MECs, principals, educators, parents, and fellow top achievers, describing the moment as a significant milestone. “It is both an honour and a privilege to speak on behalf of this absolutely outstanding class,” he said. According to his citation, Naicker, who achieved seven distinctions, demonstrated sustained academic improvement throughout his schooling at Port Shepstone Secondary School, overcoming personal challenges with determination and discipline. From an early age, he developed a strong curiosity for learning, with particular strengths in Mathematics and Physical Sciences. His academic profile reflects strong analytical abilities, problem-solving skills, and strategic thinking, which…

As AFCON Morocco 2025 unfolds, four of Africa’s top five-ranked teams have reached today’s semi-finals. The distinguished teams that have successfully advanced include Egypt (seven-time champions), Nigeria (2013 champions), Senegal (2021 winners), and the hosts, Morocco, the 1976 winners. Morocco is particularly motivated to secure its first title in 50 years. With such a long wait, the stakes for the host nation are higher than ever, promising an exciting race to the final. Today’s two blockbuster encounters are: Senegal vs Egypt Egypt secured their place with a riveting 3-2 victory over the defending champions, the Ivory Coast. Meanwhile, Senegal advanced to the final four with a disciplined 1-0 win over Mali. Both nations are pinning their hopes on their star players. For Egypt, Mohamed Salah, a player renowned for his…

Dewald Brevis never refuses to acknowledge a young fan requesting an autograph. It goes back to when he was just a child with a beaming smile asking his heroes for a moment of their time. But on Monday evening at Centurion, Brevis had to decline for he had an important matter to attend to. “I remember the little kid asked me to sign and I said, wait, I need to take a catch now. And then literally the next ball. So that was quite funny,” Brevis said. It was the first of two outstanding catches that swung the Betway SA20 clash in the Pretoria Capitals’ favour. After already contributing a crucial 34 off 19 balls during an explosive 69-run partnership off just 34 balls with Sherfane Rutherford (53 off 27…

The World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Annual Meeting 2026 will convene in Davos next week against what organisers describe as the most complex geopolitical backdrop since the end of World War II, with rising global tensions, economic uncertainty and rapid technological change shaping discussions at the start of the year. Unveiling key details of the meeting during a press briefing on Tuesday, WEF President and CEO Børge Brende said the gathering comes at a pivotal moment for the global economy, which has proven more resilient than many expected. “Despite the geopolitical challenges, the global economy has been very resilient,” Brende said, adding that growth of more than 3% is expected this year, an improvement on the more pessimistic outlook seen in 2025. However, he cautioned that sustaining growth would depend on…

Global growth continued to improve throughout 2025, with the latest reading of 3.4% according to the Bloomberg economics global GDP tracker. US growth continues to lead the charge, with the initial estimate for the third quarter 2025 coming in at a very strong 4.3%, well above trend growth. The Atlanta Fed GDPNow forecast for the fourth quarter has deteriorated to a still very strong 3%. Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill should continue to support US GDP into 2026, particularly in the first half as tax refunds will support both consumers and businesses. Other developed economies are also expected to be strong in 2026 as fiscal stimulus and rate cuts flow through to the underlying economy. Europe’s defence spending kicks into gear in 2026 but really comes in from 2027 onwards,…

Outstretching his hands in a signature Donald Trump pose, impersonator Ryan Chen mimics the US president’s voice and gestures with such accuracy that he has become a social media phenomenon with his funny videos. The 42-year-old from southwest China does not engage in political satire — a minefield in the country that can lead to account suspension — but has amassed millions of followers across Instagram, TikTok and Chinese platforms. “Trump is an endless well that never runs dry, because he draws more online traffic than anyone else on the planet,” Chen told AFP in his hometown of Chongqing which itself has gone viral over its labyrinthine cityscape and spicy food. During his videos, which are in English with Chinese subtitles, Chen lightheartedly presents Chinese cuisine, customs, cultural differences, jokes…

The revolving leadership door in the Umkhonto Wesizwe Party (MKP) is an indication that the party is not ready to govern at any level. That is the view expressed by political experts who warned that the party's actions do not bode well for voters' confidence in its ambition to take over the government in KwaZulu-Natal. The party is the biggest in the province in terms of electoral support. The MKP effected yet another leadership change at the national level. On Monday, the party announced another leadership shake-up, with Chief Whip Colleen Makhubele being removed from the position, while Brian Molefe was announced as treasurer. In KwaZulu-Natal, where the party is seeking to take over the government, it has faced internal leadership challenges, having changed the role of Chief Whip at…

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana yesterday said the Special Appropriation Bill underscored the need for self-sufficiency and the need to move with speed in addressing universal health access through the implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI). Godongwana said the court cases challenging the NHI will delay implementation of the legislation. He noted that both protagonists in the court action proclaim they support universal coverage and access. “It is my submission that these parties must meet and craft a settlement. We want to move ahead with implementation of NHI. These cases are going to (be delayed) for more years,” he said. Godongwana made this statement in response to the debate during which the National Assembly passed the Special Appropriation Bill, aimed at addressing the funding gap created by the withdrawal of…

The words “Nangu lomuntu,” meaning “here he is,” were allegedly spoken by murder accused Victor Majola moments before popular media personality DJ Warrick Stock, known as DJ Warras, was shot dead, a Johannesburg court heard yesterday. The details emerged during the formal bail application of Victor Majola, 44, who appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court facing charges of murder and premeditated murder. DJ Warras was shot dead on December 16, outside the Zambesi Building in Johannesburg. Majola was arrested last month in connection with the killing. He faces charges of murder and premeditated murder, and conspiracy to commit murder. His bail application, initially expected earlier, was postponed at the state’s request and resumed yesterday. Testifying for the state, investigating officer Captain Abe Montwedi said the events leading to the killing…

MI Cape Town’s Reeza Hendricks has not given up hope that the defending champions can still sneak into the playoffs. Robin Peterson’s side suffered a demoralising 53-run defeat to Pretoria Capitals at Centurion on Monday night which has left MI Cape Town’s campaign in tatters. They currently have 10 points from eight games and are rooted to the bottom of the table. With only two matches remaining - both against Sunrisers Eastern Cape - in the group phase, MI Cape Town virtually need a full house of two bonus point victories to potentially lift them to 20 points if they are to reach the knockout stages. Hendricks, who played a lone hand against the Capitals with 68 not out off 50 balls, steadfastly believes the fight is not over yet.…

Top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka is favourite to win a third Australian Open in four years but faces strong competition from a United States contingent led by Coco Gauff and defending champion Madison Keys. World number two Iga Swiatek is another big threat while two-time Melbourne champion Naomi Osaka will hope to be in the mix when the first Grand Slam of the year begins on Sunday. Keys stunned title-holder Sabalenka 12 months ago in a classic three-set final to win her first major title aged 29. But she failed to kick on from there, not winning another tournament all year, and the world number nine will have a target on her back as the title holder. Three other Americans are ranked inside the world's top 10: Gauff (third), Amanda Anisimova (fourth)…

South Africa walking a diplomatic and economic tightrope after the US House of Representatives approves extension South Africa is walking a diplomatic and economic tightrope as the proposed extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) moves from the US House of Representatives to the Senate, with analysts warning that the country’s full participation in the trade pact is far from guaranteed. The US House this week overwhelmingly approved a bill extending Agoa to 2028, a move welcomed by African exporters but clouded by lingering political tensions between Washington and Pretoria. At the heart of the uncertainty is South Africa’s insistence on maintaining an independent foreign policy, even as it faces growing pressure from the US over its geopolitical positioning and strategic partnerships. Relations have been strained by South…

Primary Health Properties (PHP) will pay out a 40.276 cents (1.825 pence) per share cash first quarterly dividend to its South African shareholders, following a positive rental growth outlook for 2023, the JSE-listed UK-based private healthcare facilities group said Tuesday. The 30th year of consecutive dividend growth had marked a transformational period, with the combination between PHP and Assura successfully delivered, creating a £6 billion healthcare REIT, the company remarked in a trading update for the 12 months to December 31, 2023. Some 60% of £9 million of synergies identified at time of the deal had already been delivered in the 2 months since Competition and Markets Authority clearance, and integration moves forward "at pace", CEO Mark Davies said. Rent reviews generated an additional £8.3m, a 6.8% increase over the…

EDUCATION stakeholders have detailed the many sacrifices and interventions made, including teachers having to sleep at school, that led to KwaZulu-Natal being crowned the best performer in the country in the 2025 National Senior Certificate results. Education stakeholders spoke to The Mercury yesterday about the practical initiatives implemented by schools that enabled the country’s most rural province to surpass the Free State to clinch the top spot and a 90.6% pass rate. They noted that in some schools, principals and teachers went as far as sleeping at schools during camps to ensure learners were supported. Department officials, members of the education portfolio committee, and school principals praised the collaboration between pupils, teachers, and parents, saying it has been fundamental to the province's consistent improvement. Emmanuel Duma, principal of Sibusisiwe Comprehensive…

The Legal Practice Council (LPC) has turned to court to have one of the former directors of a Kempton Park law firm removed from the roll nearly three years after eight former clients of the Road Accident Fund (RAF) lodged a complaint with the Legal Practice Council (LPC) over irregularities regarding the handling of their claims. The application against former director Jakkie Supra, who was at the time tasked with overseeing the RAF claims at the firm Schurmann Van den Heever & Slabbert Inc, is due to be heard on an unopposed basis by the Gauteng High Court, Pretoria, later this month. The conduct of the law firm came to light after a whistleblower, William Crichton, then a candidate attorney at the firm, leaked information as he felt that the…

AS MINISTER of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela congratulated the matric Class of 2025, he urged first-year students to await official confirmation of university placement and accommodation before travelling to tertiary institutions. Manamela said the 88% record pass rate marked an important milestone for the basic education system and reflected sustained improvements in learner retention, throughput, and equity, including improved performance in many no-fee schools. He added that South Africa’s universities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, Community Education and Training (CET) colleges, private higher education institutions, and skills development institutions stand ready to receive students across a wide range of post-school pathways. However, students are urged to ensure that they have received formal confirmation of academic placement and accommodation before travelling to any institution. Institutions will…

The South African rugby teams’ struggles in Europe were again laid bare over the weekend, with the country’s franchises enduring a bruising round in the EPCR Challenge Cup and Champions Cup. Heavy defeats and missed opportunities highlighted the physical and mental toll of competing across hemispheres. The Sharks were among the sides left frustrated as the South African teams struggled to match their European counterparts, a pattern that has sparked debate around player fatigue, squad depth, and the relentless demands of the modern rugby calendar. With local sides now balancing the United Rugby Championship alongside two gruelling European competitions, teams have preferred to target home matches with their first-choice players, while sending second-stringers abroad. The Sharks went down 26–10 in their Champions Cup match against Sale Sharks in Manchester, while…

Manchester United yesterday reached an agreement to appoint Michael Carrick as interim manager until the end of the season, reports said yesterday. The former midfielder was pictured arriving at the club's Carrington training ground, with his appointment set to be confirmed later in yesterday. Carrick previously had an unbeaten three-game stint as caretaker boss at Old Trafford in 2021. The 44-year-old, who won 12 major trophies in his 12-year playing career at United, was appointed manager of Middlesbrough in October 2022. Carrick guided Middlesbrough to the Championship play-offs in his first season in charge but was dismissed in June after the club finished 10th in the second tier. United had also been in discussions with former player and boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer about a potential return to the club. The…

The honeymoon phase is officially over. Three years into South Africa’s northwards migration, the novelty of the United Rugby Championship and the glamour of the Champions Cup have been replaced by a cold, hard reality check. While we’ve seen some incredible highs — the Stormers’ early URC title and the Bulls’ run to various finals — the European experience has been, let's be honest, a bit of a rollercoaster. Lately, it’s been the kind of ride that leaves you feeling more bruised than exhilarated. Competing with Europe’s elite isn't just about showing up with Springbok pedigree and a "never-say-die" attitude; it’s a logistical and tactical puzzle that we haven't quite solved yet. The most glaring issue is the one we can’t change: geography. Hauling world-class athletes across the equator, through…