Innholdsfortegnelse for 2025-10-16 i Star

Total remuneration for executive directors increased over the past year, with chief exectives (CEOs) and chief financial officers (CFOs) seeing median increases of 8% and 19%, respectively, according to PwC’s 2025 Directors Remuneration and Trends report that looked at the executive pay across JSE Top 200. Despite macroeconomic pressure and heightened scrutiny of executive pay, shareholders continue to back remuneration practices. PwC’s 2025 Directors Remuneration and Trends report reveals that executive director pay has rebounded over the past year, with increases outpacing inflation and drawing renewed attention to fairness, transparency, and alignment with performance. Makhosazana Mabaso, PwC’s reward partner, said, “These results contrast sharply with trends observed in 2024, where variable pay outcomes had decreased. The return to stronger performance-linked remuneration suggests a shift in market conditions, as well as…

A troubling picture of deteriorating fiscal conditions emerges around the world The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has issued a stark warning that global public debt is on track to exceed 100% of GDP by 2029, reaching its highest level since the aftermath of World War II. The Fund’s latest Fiscal Monitor report, released yesterday in Washington, D.C., paints a troubling picture of deteriorating fiscal conditions, rising borrowing costs, and deepening debt vulnerabilities across both advanced and developing economies. Vitor Gaspar, director of the IMF fiscal affairs department, said public debt continues to rise as governments face mounting fiscal strain from higher defense spending, aging populations, and elevated interest rates. “Global public debt prospects and risks have worsened since our last meeting in April. In such a scenario, debt would be…

As global financial leaders gather in Washington, D.C. this week for the annual World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) meetings, a new analysis from the African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) is drawing attention to the human cost — and potential human benefit — of reforming the world’s debt system. The report, unveiled on Wednesday, reveals that capping African governments’ debt servicing costs could unlock more than $320 billion in revenue, transforming lives across the continent and offering struggling governments a path out of what ACET calls a “cycle of debt and dependence.” Mavis Owusu-Gyamfi, ACET president and CEO, said those resources could achieve a lot if redirected toward strengthening clinics, training teachers or ensuring families have access to clean water. “African governments are currently spending nearly 17% of…

For South African SMEs, the final quarter of the year is more than just a busy season, it is a proving ground. It is when strategy meets execution, and when the right decisions can unlock real growth. Black Friday, in particular, has become a defining moment in the retail calendar. And if last year’s numbers are anything to go by, the stakes are only getting higher. In recent years, we’ve seen a consistent year-on-year increase in transaction activity during the Black Friday period. What was once a single day of frenzied shopping has evolved into an extended week of spending, with consumers planning and purchasing over several days rather than just 24 hours. This steady upward trend is more than a seasonal spike; it’s a clear signal that South Africans…

The PayInc Economic Index, which tracks electronic transactions processed by PayInc, improved for the fifth consecutive month in September 2025 reflecting the resilience of the South African economy and agility of its businesses, While several positive factors are helping to sustain demand, the low growth rate indicates the economy is operating mostly in survival mode. “The PayInc Economic Index continued its upward trend since April, reaching a revised level of 102.3 in September 2025. This is 0.2% up on August’s level and 3% higher than a year ago,” said Shergeran Naidoo, the head of stakeholder engagements at PayInc.The resilience in economic activity, evident in the PayInc data, serves as a reminder of the complexity of the South African economy. Elize Kruger, an independent economist, said, “No single factor is the…

Paramount Global recently announced it would close five well-known MTV music channels by year-end. For 44 years, MTV wasn’t just a television channel; it was a cultural phenomenon. From waiting to catch the latest music video premiere to daydreaming about the ginormous mansions we saw on MTV Cribs, it shaped how we experienced music, fashion, and youth culture. These channels are more than just TV; they’re pieces of music history. Each one offered something unique, bringing people together in a way that streaming services often can’t. Here’s what will be closing: 1. MTV Music: The flagship music video destination that started it all. 2. MTV 80s: A nostalgic haven for retro hits and neon-soaked memories. 3. MTV 90s: A throwback to the grunge, alternative rock, and pop anthems that defined…

The Gauteng provincial government has indicated it is ready to host a crime-free G20 Summit next month. This comes as the Gauteng MEC for education, Matome Chiloane, his agriculture counterpart, Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, e-government MEC, Bonginkosi Dhlamini, and health MEC, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, held a joint media briefing yesterday in which they committed themselves to the province’s intergovernmental collaboration for improved service delivery. Dhlamini revealed that through the expansion of CCTV cameras and other crime-fighting measures, the province has won some crime fights in the Johannesburg CBD, including the densely-populated Small Street. Dhlamini briefed the media on the progress and preparations made by the e-Government ahead of the upcoming G20 Summit, adding that the province is ready to host international guests who will be visiting the province as part of the Summit.…

South Africans are watching yet another wave of corruption revelations – from Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s explosive claims about criminal infiltration in the police, to testimony before Parliament’s ad hoc committee and the Madlanga Commission – with weary eyes. Across townships, suburbs and rural communities, the reaction is the same: not shock, but exhaustion and fatigue. For many, these scandals have become a grim ritual in a democracy that promised integrity but has delivered repetition. “We are fatigued by repetition” Siyabulela Jentile, president of #NotInMyName What the country is witnessing, according to Jentile, “isn’t new – it’s the continuation of a long, painful story of institutional betrayal”. “South Africans are not numb by choice; we are fatigued by repetition. Each revelation of corruption lands on ground already scorched by previous…

On the back of the national dialogues on reconciliation and social cohesion, the Institute for Healing of Memories (IHOM) has cautioned that unresolved trauma remains one of the most urgent yet under-resourced challenges in our democracy. The organisation has cautioned that unless trauma is addressed, its impact will continue to shape individuals, communities, policies, and the country’s future. Fr Michael Lapsley, founder of IHOM says, “unresolved trauma does not disappear. It silently shapes our families, communities, politics, and economies. If we do not address it, the pain of the past is carried forward. South Africa, with its past and recurring issues, has much need for healing as a nation.” Founded in 1998 to run in parallel to South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), IHOM has worked for over 25…

The Renault Triber has been given a makeover, ushering in the company’s new corporate look and badge, while remaining the least expensive seven-seater on the South African market. With a fresh look comes new model grades, with the previous Life, the Zen and the Intens flavours making way for the Evolution, the Techno and the Iconic variants. Best of all, the entry price has been dropped by R10 000, with the 1.0 Evolution kicking things off at R218 999, while the midrange Techno is priced at R233 999 and the Iconic listed at R249 999 in manual form and R259 999 as an AMT automated manual. Renault is also offering an Express panel van model, priced at R249 999. What’s new for 2025? The facelifted Triber is the first local…

Mamelodi Sundowns have endured a turbulent start to their season and now return to the CAF Champions League stage aiming to find their rhythm and begin their continental campaign on a positive note. The Brazilians will face Nigerian outfit Remo Stars in the second preliminary round at the Abiola Stadium this Sunday, seeking to lay down an early marker in Africa’s premier club competition. Their return follows a heartbreaking 3-2 aggregate defeat in last season’s final against Egyptian side Pyramids FC, where Sundowns were widely tipped to lift their second Champions League title. Instead, they were left to rue missed opportunities against the debut finalists, ending what had been a strong campaign in disappointment. For head coach Miguel Cardoso, this tournament presents a chance for redemption. The Portuguese tactician has…

It is fair to say that the Lions will be under heavy scrutiny against the Scarlets on Saturday (kick-off 1.45pm) to record their first win of the United Rugby Championship (URC) season. Many would argue that it has been an ignominious start to their campaign – the Joburgers losing their first three games of the tournament. The Lions have already conceded 96 points this season, with 14 tries racked up against them in the process. In return, they have struck back with only half that tally in tries to record 55 points. They currently sit 15th out of 16 teams on the URC log – a position that reflects both their winless run and the defensive frailties that have plagued them in the opening rounds. Their most recent defeat –…

Hugo Broos will walk away from Bafana Bafana after the 2026 Fifa World Cup, leaving behind a team reborn – confident, disciplined, and competitive on the continent once again. But as his farewell draws near, the burning question emerges: should his successor be South African or European? It’s a debate that could divide opinion across the football fraternity, from the corridors of SAFA House to the voices of fans in the stands. On one hand, Broos’ reign has proved that a strong, independent-minded European coach can restore structure and belief. His methods were unconventional – even unpopular at times – but his stubborn faith in his process delivered results. A World Cup qualification, an AFCON bronze, and a renewed sense of national pride are not minor achievements. A European successor…

Bafana Bafana have made remarkable strides over the past few years, gradually reclaiming their place among Africa’s footballing giants. With their qualification for next year’s Fifa World Cup now secured, part of their long-term mission has been successfully accomplished. Of course, the focus now turns to preparation for the global spectacle. Alhough the tournament spans just a month, the build-up and planning demand months of meticulous work to ensure readiness and competitiveness, as the best nations in world football prepare to converge across the US, Canada, and Mexico. As has become something of a recurring theme for South Africa, their route to qualification was anything but smooth. Here, we reflect on the top five moments from those tense final fixtures that sealed their qualification. Mbatha’s golden touch Orlando Pirates midfielder…

The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has invited private sector players to submit proposals for the development and operation of a specialised Break Bulk Terminal focused on cold storage for fish and related products at the Port of Cape Town. This is a move set to bolster the Western Cape’s vital fishing industry and enhance South Africa’s export logistics. The project, announced on Wednesday, forms part of TNPA’s efforts to modernise port infrastructure and expand capacity for temperature-sensitive cargo. TNPA issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a terminal operator to finance, refurbish, construct, operate, maintain and eventually transfer the new facility under a 10-year concession. The proposed development site – a 7 273 m² brownfield area located adjacent to the ship repair and liquid bulk precincts – is…

As the world’s economic centre of gravity continues to shift, Africa is no longer content with the call for inclusion. It is taking the reins, crafting, co-creating, contributing, and actively shaping the future of global financial governance. From the recent G2O gathering in Durban, a clear message emerged as policymakers, economists, and financial leaders convened for an official side event under South Africa’s G20 Presidency for a high-level forum exploring Africa’s role in reshaping global finance. The world’s financial architecture is in transition – buffeted by geopolitical shocks, widening fiscal pressures, and a growing crisis of multilateral trust. As the system fragments, the Global South faces a pivotal question: will it remain a policy-taker, or help shape the rules that will define the future? Africa is choosing the latter Under…

South Africa’s Agricultural Conditions Assessment Committee (ACAC) says the country’s farming outlook is showing strong signs of recovery across most crop and fruit sectors, but the livestock industry remains under severe strain due to the ongoing Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak. In its third quarterly meeting for 2025 held earlier this week under the Department of Agriculture, the committee reported that while overall agricultural conditions are uneven, the balance remains tilted toward a positive growth trajectory. “In field crops, the output is up from the 2023-24 season, boosted by the favourable rainfall and vast planting area," it said. "For example, South Africa's 2024-25 summer grains and oilseed harvest is estimated at 19.94 million tons, a 28% year-on-year increase. This encompasses maize, soybeans, sunflower seed, sorghum, dry beans, and groundnuts.” According to…

It’s funny how life has a way of drawing curious parallels, almost as if the universe enjoys a bit of irony. Recently, we each travelled to Venda, unknowingly within weeks of each other. When we returned, we realised our experiences were strikingly similar stories of a region quietly redefining what local enterprise looks like. Those shared observations culminated in this co-authored article. Across South Africa’s northern reaches, something remarkable is quietly unfolding an entrepreneurial shift that challenges long-held assumptions about who can participate in traditionally centralised industries. Travelling more than 150 kilometres through the area reveals a fuel landscape unlike any other: not one dominated by the familiar big-brand petrol stations, but a diverse network of independent and locally-owned operators. Names unfamiliar to most South Africans line the roads from…

DHL Group on Wednesday announced a more than €300 million (R6 billion) planned investment in Sub-Saharan Africa, reaffirming its long- term commitment to a region of growing strategic importance in global trade. It said in a statement on Wednesday that the multi-year initiative will be deployed across DHL Express, DHL Global Forwarding, and DHL Supply Chain to expand infrastructure, enhance service capabilities, and unlock opportunities for businesses across key sectors including e-commerce, perishables, energy, and life sciences & healthcare. John Pearson, the CEO of DHL Express, said “Africa is at a pivotal moment in its trade journey.” He said despite global volatility, the continent continues to show resilience and momentum. DHL's investment reflects confidence in Africa’s trajectory and DHL’s commitment to enabling the trade flows that drive inclusive growth. "By…

The countdown has begun for reality TV fans as the highly anticipated trailer for The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa is here, and it promises an exhilarating mix of catfights, laughter and opulence. Forget the notion of a tranquil holiday, this girls’ trip is anything but serene! In the explosive trailer, viewers catch a glimpse of the fabulous housewives from Durban and Johannesburg, Jojo Robinson, Annie Mthembu, Nqobile “Angel” Ndlela, Madam Evodia and Christall Kay as they touch down in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, for the ultimate girls trip. They are joined by fan-favourites Zena Nyambu and Dr Catherine Masitsa (The Real Housewives of Nairobi), Princess Jecoco (The Real Housewives of Abuja) and Mariam Adeyemi Timmer (The Real Housewives of Lagos). The ladies are staying at the luxurious Villa…

The Supreme Court of Appeal has ruled that Standard Bank had bypassed the rules of the National Credit Act (NCA) when it used settlement agreements with a family trust to enforce its debts by obtaining an order that 14 immovable properties of the trust be declared executable. The SCA found that settlement agreements supplementing a NCA-governed credit agreement are unlawful and void. It said enforcement requires Section 129 compliance. This section of the NCA requires a credit provider to send a written notice to a consumer in default of a credit agreement before legal proceedings can begin. In this case, the bank used the settlement agreements to obtain orders from the Bloemfontein High Court to sell the properties in order to recover its debt, without the consumer being afforded the…

The Gauteng Department of Health (GDH) has slashed its medico-legal claims from a staggering R18 billion in 2023 to under R6.9bn this financial year. Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko announced the sharp reduction at a media briefing in Johannesburg yesterday, crediting the department’s new litigation strategy for the success. “This significant achievement was driven by robust case management, including removing dormant cases and applying a strong public healthcare defence,” she said. The claims stem from lawsuits filed by patients over alleged mistreatment at Gauteng’s public health facilities – a long-standing crisis that saw the province consistently lead in such legal liabilities. Nkomo-Ralehoko said the streamlined approach has not only cut down liability but will save the department millions in legal costs. Gauteng’s reforms have now drawn national attention. Provinces like Eastern…

AYO Technology Solutions is taking legal action against News24 and journalist Carol Paton following the publication of a contentious article AYO claims is filled with malicious and defamatory statements. The article “Revealed: Why the knives are out for PIC investment head”, published on October 9, 2023, has drawn sharp criticism from AYO, which regards it as a deliberate attempt to damage its reputation. In a formal statement issued yesterday, AYO said it had instructed its legal team to issue a letter of demand, as the article in question not only fabricates information but also demonstrates a complete disregard for the principles of responsible journalism. According to AYO, Paton’s central claim, which alleges a link between the suspension of the Public Investment Corporation’s Chief Investment Officer, Kabelo Rikhotso, and AYO’s delisting…

In a compelling address at the Public Protector of South Africa’s 30th Anniversary International Conference in Cape Town, President Cyril Ramaphosa celebrated the institution’s three-decade legacy as a pillar of South Africa’s constitutional democracy. Far more than a watchdog, the Office of the Public Protector serves as a moral mirror, reflecting the nation’s commitment to justice, accountability, and the rule of law. Speaking to ombudspersons, legal experts, and global anti-corruption advocates, Ramaphosa hailed the institution’s transformative role in reshaping the relationship between the state and its citizens. Drawing on the words of the late Chief Justice Ismail Mahomed, Ramaphosa described constitutions as expressions of a nation’s shared aspirations and ethical direction. Established under South Africa’s 1996 Constitution, the Public Protector embodies these ideals, acting as a guardian of public interest…

“It’s a beautiful feather in my cap to be Xhosa. I’m proud of my heritage and my culture, and hip-hop allows me to express that without losing myself,” said rapper and producer Yanga Chief. The Star sat down with the award-winning artist at the Songs to Savour event on Sunday, held at the Wits Origins Centre in Johannesburg. The gathering was an immersive celebration of African heritage, a space where rhythm, language, and storytelling intertwined to honour ancestral traditions. Through live performances and cultural demonstrations, artists such as Zoë Modiga, Mbuso Khoza, Culoe De Song, and Yanga Chief captivated audiences, encouraging them to reconnect with their spiritual and historical roots. More than just an intimate dinner, the event became a heartfelt call to reconnect with cultural roots. As South Africans…

South Africans like nothing more than a special edition vehicle, and when it comes to bakkies, it’s even more so. Think the Ford Ranger, the Toyota Hilux and the GWM P-series, to name a few, which have all had a run of limited editions with various additions like rims, decals, interior stitching, aggressive tyres and sports bars to make them stand out from the normal garden variety. Sometimes they’re so successful that it becomes a permanent fixture, as is the case now with the JAC T9 Hunter. “With all 24 T9 Hunters selling out instantly, the company decided to include the T9 Hunter as a permanent model in the line-up,” said Karl-Heinz Göbel, the CEO of JAC Motors South Africa. “The T9 Hunter will soon be offered in both 4x2…

Hugo Broos will walk away from Bafana Bafana after the 2026 Fifa World Cup, ending a tenure that has restored belief, pride, and purpose in South African football. The 73-year-old Belgian mentor confirmed his decision after guiding Bafana to a 3-0 win over Rwanda at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday night – a result that, combined with Nigeria’s 4-0 win over Benin in Uyo, sealed South Africa’s passage to next year’s global showpiece. Broos’ men topped Group C after a gruelling qualification campaign, finishing a point ahead of Nigeria and Benin. The Super Eagles’ emphatic victory may have earned them an unlikely play-off lifeline, but it was Bafana who emerged as the group’s dominant force – resilient, organised, and consistent from start to finish. And for Broos, qualification marks both a…

The Bulls had a frustrating review of their defeat to Ulster, looking at the chances they missed, but they are approaching their duel with Connacht refreshed and with a much-changed squad to turn around their fortunes on tour. Head coach Johan Ackermann announced a much-rotated team, showing 11 changes, including a position switch, for tomorrow’s duel in Galway – a notorious graveyard for South African touring sides in the United Rugby Championship (URC). Despite making wholesale changes, Ackermann believes they can get back to winning ways at the Dexcom Stadium (8.45pm start) with the side he selected. Most notably, the Bulls will play with a new captain in the No 5 jersey in Reinhardt Ludwig, while they also changed combinations in the midfield, at halfback, a new-look loose trio and…

Charles Leclerc heads into the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) this weekend carrying both hope and frustration. As the defending winner at Austin, he knows exactly what it takes to dominate here. In fact, Austin 2024 was the last time Ferrari had a perfect weekend, with former teammate Carlos Sainz driving home the P2 last year. Yet, this 2025 season has been anything but consistent, leaving fans and Ferrari alike wondering if he can turn speed into results once again. With the championship now out of reach, the focus is clear: a podium, or better, a strong finish to end the year on a high. The Monegasque started the season with flashes of brilliance, from qualifying dominance to early podiums, but those highs were offset by reliability issues, strategy missteps,…

It is a long way back for the world Test champion Proteas from here. The size of their defeat to Pakistan in the first Test at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, by 93 runs, does not tell the full story. For all their gumption of staying in the fight for as long as they did, there were only three individual batters – opener Ryan Rickelton twice – that passed 20 runs in both innings. The rest showed neither technique nor pluck and determination to see it through against the high-quality spin offered by Noman Ali and his excitable sidekick Sajid Khan, who claimed 15 of the 20 Proteas wickets to fall over the course of the three and half days. Worryingly, they may also have allowed a resurgent Shaheen Shah Afridi to…

South Africa’s fruit industry is celebrating a major breakthrough after the Department of Agriculture signed a historic stone fruit trade protocol with China, opening the Asian market for five key fruit types – apricots, peaches, nectarines, plums, and prunes – for the first time. The landmark deal not only enhances trade ties between South Africa and China, but also signals a new phase in agricultural diplomacy – one that promises to boost farmer incomes, create jobs, and strengthen the country’s role as a leading global fruit exporter. Announcing the deal yesterday, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen said the agreement could unlock approximately R400 million for the sector over the next five years, with export earnings expected to double within a decade. Steenhuisen said that the protocol marks “a major breakthrough for…

What happens when powerful foreign banks can influence the value of our rand, raise the cost of living for millions, and then claim that our laws do not apply to them? That, in essence, is the question now before the Constitutional Court, and its answer will define how South Africa defends its sovereignty in a globalised financial system. In August, the Court heard the Competition Commission’s appeal against the Competition Appeal Court’s decision to dismiss charges of rand manipulation against 13 international banks. The judgment, now reserved, will decide whether foreign financial institutions can be held accountable when their conduct directly affects South Africa’s markets. If South Africa cannot hold global banks accountable for manipulating its currency, then our economic sovereignty exists only on paper. This saga dates back to…

Every year on October 16, Boss’s Day gives employees an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the people who lead them for their support. But in South Africa, there’s a category of bosses who deserve more than just a thank-you card from their teams – the small and medium enterprise (SME) owners. These are the leaders who collectively contribute a third of the country’s GDP and employ over 60% of the workforce. While large corporate CEOs may make more headlines, there is a lot we can also learn from the small business bosses. Here’s why: 1 They often prioritise purpose over profit For most SME owners, the motivation to start a business goes beyond financial gain. Many are driven by a desire to solve a problem, support their community, or build…

The value of the township economy is estimated at R1 trillion a year, but a new survey finds that nearly 80% of township businesses are unregistered, which excludes them from access to finance, formal markets and digital tools, that could enable them to grow. According to Statistics South Africa (Stats SA), unregistered businesses are those that operate outside formal regulatory frameworks, including VAT registration, labour regulations, and tax compliance. Stats SA finds that the informal township economy accounted for nearly 19.5% of total employment in the last quarter of 2024. For scale, South Africa’s nominal GDP in 2024 was R7.3trln. A survey by Standard Bank conducted across Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, Limpopo and North-West, in townships that include Meadowlands, Cosmo City, Langa, Khayelitsha, Lebowakgomo, Phoenix, among others, showed that these…

Inimba fans can get ready for some more drama as things are about to get juicier. Mzansi Magic has confirmed a 90-episode extension for the show’s first season, which started on Monday. There are also new faces shaking things up. Sandile Mahlangu arrives as Onga, a charming man who is sure to ruffle feathers at Khusela Tech. Samkelo Ndlovu joins as Lillian Gumede, a mysterious newcomer with a mission. Luzuko Nkqeto also makes an entrance as Zwelinzima Ngcukana, the strict father of Lazarus, with Tina Jaxa as Nomfundiso Ngcukana, Lazarus’ aunt. For those who have not yet tuned in, Inimba is a gripping drama that explores love, ambition and the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child. Zoleka Mabandla, played by Lunathi Mpofu, once had everything she could ask…

Nhlamulo “Nota” Baloyi, a controversial music executive, reportedly had his US visa revoked after making public comments regarding the murder of American conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. The United States government confirmed revoking the visa statuses of several foreign nationals who expressed support for or celebrated Kirk’s assassination online, calling such actions “a direct endorsement of violence and extremism”. In a statement, the US Department of State said it had identified and quoted several individuals who “celebrated the heinous assassination of Kirk”. The department added that it would continue to monitor and take action against anyone found to be glorifying or endorsing his death. “The United States has no obligation to host foreigners who wish death on Americans. “The State Department continues to identify visa holders who celebrated the heinous assassination…

Despite concerns over potential irregularities and cheating, Umalusi – the education quality watchdog – has given the thumbs up for the 2025 matric exams beginning next week. Over a million learners are set to write their end-of-year exams at about 9 400 examination centres starting from next week. Addressing the media in Pretoria, Umalusi chief executive officer Dr Mafu Rakometsi confirmed the body’s readiness to oversee the examination process. He, however, said there were areas of concern identified but added that they will not put the integrity of examinations in jeopardy. The body has conducted an audit assessing the readiness of public and private assessment bodies, including the Departments of Basic Education (DBE) and Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), Independent Examinations Board (IEB), and South African Comprehensive Assessment…

Government officials, business representatives, and civil society participants have gathered in Heidelberg, Gauteng, for a pivotal symposium on the socio-economic effects of de-industrialisation in small towns. The event aims to examine how the closure or relocation of major industries can dramatically reshape – and sometimes devastate – local economies and communities. “We are holding this event in Heidelberg to discuss a very important subject: de-industrialisation, the slow but profound erosion of small towns’ industrial and economic base. That is what today’s gathering is about,” event organiser Zamokwakhe Ludidi Somhlaba told IOL in an interview. Somhlaba, a political economist and head of research and political risk advisory at Frontline Africa Advisory in Pretoria, explained: “We want to dissect this phenomenon of de-industrialisation by looking at specific towns. Two main towns we…

President Cyril Ramaphosa says he wants answers from Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie regarding his ‘negotiations’ with Chinese fashion retailer SHEIN. Ramaphosa made the remarks during a question-and-answer session in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in Cape Town on Tuesday. This followed a question from EFF NCOP member Hon Virgil Gericke, who told Ramaphosa that South Africa’s textile industry has continued to struggle despite his administration’s efforts to revive it. Gericke said the industry had “all but collapsed” after factory shutdowns, job cuts, and a decline in local capacity caused by cheap imports, even as local innovations persist. He expressed concern over McKenzie’s recent meeting with Shein in Singapore, warning that poorly managed partnerships with foreign corporations could worsen conditions for local designers already struggling to…

A Volkswagen bus needs no introduction to South Africans, considering it’s been around for decades and at one stage it almost had a monopoly in the segment. I’ve often said that we should be seeing more vans on the road and that consumers tend to wear blinkers and walk straight to an SUV without a second glance. For me at least, a van makes sense, especially with a family. There’s significantly more space – both for people and luggage. Modern vans have all the screens and connectivity you could ever need, they’re economical, and you have a commanding view of the road ahead, to name a few. The new Volkswagen Transporter is all of that and then some. Exterior Sure, it’s built on the Ford Tourneo platform as a result…

If you’re after a big, beautiful SUV that feels more like a spa on wheels than a roaring beast on the road, the newly refreshed Volvo XC90 might be exactly what you’ve been waiting for. The Swedish carmaker has given its flagship SUV a subtle facelift. While it might not look wildly different at first look, there’s a lot going on under the surface — especially when it comes to safety and luxury. Exterior First up, let’s talk about the looks. The XC90 has always had that simple vibe and Volvo hasn’t tinkered with that too much. The facelift brings a sleeker front grille, sharper “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights that are immediately noticeable even in daytime driving, and some new wheel options that give it the modern edge. It’s stylish…

A proud and emotional Hugo Broos could barely contain his joy as he reflected on Bafana Bafana’s historic return to the Fifa World Cup for the first time since 2010. The Belgian tactician, often a divisive figure since his appointment in 2021, stood vindicated on a memorable night in Mbombela where his side swept past Rwanda 3–0 to seal qualification. For Broos, this was more than just a football triumph – it was a moment of redemption after years of skepticism and public doubt. His selections, methods, and at times blunt honesty have long divided opinion, but the result in Nelspruit was the culmination of a project built on belief, structure, and resilience. “I know not everyone agreed with the choices I made,” Broos admitted after the match. “But I…

Thomas Tuchel has completed his first task as England manager with ease as the Three Lions became the first European side to qualify for the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday. After a perfect qualifying record of six wins and 18 goals without conceding from six games, the hard work for the German now begins in burdening great expectations in tough conditions next year in the US, Mexico and Canada. AFP Sports looks at the challenges ahead for Tuchel and his team if they are to end a 60-year wait to win a major men's tournament. Tuchel's bold decision to leave out Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden from his squad this month underlined his desire to find the best collective unit rather than a collection of the best players at his…

“BUNCH OF LOSERS!” These were the headlines that greeted Bafana Bafana, with the comments coming from none other than the then Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula, after the team’s 3-1 defeat to Nigeria in the 2014 African Nations Championship. Mbalula also claimed Bafana were “useless”, made reference to their “mediocrity”, and stated that “we indeed have a crisis of monumental proportions”. Contrast this to the jubilant celebration scenes, led by current Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie screaming into the cameras “Siyaya e-America” on Tuesday evening at Nelspruit’s Mbombela Stadium after Bafana qualified for next year’s Fifa World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico. For Bafana to have come this far is staggering. It’s pinch me, wake up, everybody’s dreaming territory. Qualification for a first Fifa World Cup since 2002 was achieved…