Table of contents for 2025-04-08 in Star

Rand plunges to two-year low by 1.6% to R19.44 against the dollar, its lowest since May 2023 The fallout from escalating US import tariffs reverberated across global markets on Monday as fears of trade tensions between the United States and China grew, with South Africa's economy bearing the brunt of the turmoil exacerbated by domestic political uncertainty. The rand plunged to a near two-year low by 1.6% to R19.44 against the US dollar during early trade on Monday, its lowest level since 26 May 2023 when it hit R19.65/$1, worsened by the uncertainty over the future of the Government of National Unity (GNU). The rand also hit R25 to the British pound in early morning trade on Monday - the worst level ever against the pound. Financial markets remained on…

Cryptocurrencies wiped out almost all their gains since Donald Trump’s election win in early November as fallout from the US president’s tariff onslaught sparked heavy selling in an asset class he’s vowed to champion. Bitcoin briefly tumbled below $75 000 (R1.4 million) on Monday for the first time since November 7, dropping as much as 5.3% before recovering slightly. Smaller tokens remained subdued, however, with XRP, Solana and Cardano all trading down between 5% and 10% as of 8.57 am in New York. Ether traded at its lowest since March 2023. The total market capitalisation of all cryptocurrencies fell about 11% to $2.5 trillion, roughly where it stood when Trump sealed his victory, according to CoinGecko data. The slide comes as Trump dug in on sweeping tariffs that have already…

The Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz) has urged the nation to diversify its export markets in response to the trade turbulence generated by US President Donald Trump's announcement of potential tariffs that may exceed 10% on South African exports. Agbiz's chief economist, Wandile Sihlobo, on Monday emphasised the importance of remaining neutral and actively seeking new business opportunities, particularly in the Middle East, which he identified as a market ripe for expansion. Despite a commendable record in agricultural exports—reaching an impressive $13.7 billion (R286bn) in 2024, up 3% from the previous year—Sihlobo cautioned that South Africa cannot afford to become complacent. With nearly half of its agricultural exports absorbed by the African continent and substantial markets in the European Union, Middle East, Asia, and the UK, there remains…

When you are in need there’s a temptation to express gratitude without questioning. Any form of clarity seeking exercise is often associated with being ungrateful. This is clearly visible when one looks at the digital divide challenge in South Africa. It was once fashionable for businesses to donate computers without the necessary support and gifting of computers that were approaching their end of life cycle. Those that accept such gifts sit with the burden of storage or even keeping hardware that is hardly functioning. We are now beginning to see a similar trend in the process enabling access to internet. The connectivity challenge in townships has attracted solution providers who are offering mixed blessings. On the one hand they are providing useful tools that are enabling access to information and…

Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) on Monday issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the appointment of a Liquid Bulk Terminal Operator for the handling of edible oils and compatible cargo at the Port of Cape Town. The terminal site is a brownfield development covering approximately 6,289 m², within the Liquid Bulk Precinct at the Port of Cape Town. The terminal facilitates the delivery and dispatch of products via vessels and road tankers with access to common-user berths in the Tanker Basin. The primary cargo handled at the terminal includes high-flash products, such as molasses and vegetable oils. "The RFP intends to select a terminal operator that will finance, refurbish, and/or construct, operate, maintain, and transfer a Liquid Bulk Terminal to handle edible oils and other compatible…

Nearly half of tourism businesses in South Africa are expecting improved performance in the next 12 months despite economic and operational difficulties. These are the findings of the latest Tourism Business Pulse Report released by the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) on Monday, revealing a resilient yet challenged tourism industry. The report assessed business conditions from July 2023 to June 2024 and found that 47% of businesses expect improved performance in the next 12 months. TBCSA - the umbrella organisation representing the unified voice of business in the hospitality, travel, and tourism sector - said that while the past year saw marginally above-normal performance, structural constraints continue to hamper the sector’s full recovery. The sector experienced mixed results, 34% of businesses had a strong year, while 30% struggled…

Three suspects, including a domestic worker, have been apprehended in a house robbery plot, leading to the recovery of firearms, ammunition, and cash. Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba confirmed that the arrests were the result of a joint operation by the Tzaneen Tracking Team and detectives. The team was mobilised to hunt down suspects involved in a house robbery that unfolded early morning on March 30 in Aqua Park. He revealed that the 26-year-old domestic worker, who was employed at the home, was arrested on Thursday and is allegedly the brains behind the robbery. “The first arrest took place on Thursday, 03 April 2025, when a 26-year-old domestic worker employed at the targeted residence was taken into custody for perjury. “Investigations revealed that she orchestrated the robbery by supplying…

The Phuthaditjhaba Regional Court has sentenced three South African Police Service (SAPS) officers to life imprisonment for the brutal murder of 32-year-old Thabo Moses Mopeli while in custody. Sergeant Mbekeni Canuel Dladla, 46, Constable Bongani Selby Zondo, 36, and Constable Richard Mohau Balene, 41, were convicted not only of murder but also of three counts of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH). Each assault conviction carries an additional 12-month prison sentence. The court further ruled the trio unfit to possess firearms. National Prosecuting Authority Regional Spokesperson Mojalefa Senokoatsane said the incident occurred on Friday, May 21, 2022, when Thabo and two other men, Thapelo Johannes Sekete and Thabang Mopeli, were detained under separate charges. Sekete and Mopeli were arrested for public drinking, while Thabo was later apprehended…

Residents in several Tshwane suburbs within the Centurion area are growing increasingly frustrated, having now spent five days without power following last week's Brakfontein Substation explosion. With no clear updates on when power will be restored, residents have taken to social media to vent their anger and disappointment The areas, which have been plunged into darkness, include Rooihuiskraal North, The Reeds extensions, Wierdapark and Heuweloord. A frustrated resident posted on social media, asking a series of questions, including: “What is happening with the Brakfontein substation? Why do we still not have power? Theft and vandalism caused the fire? Why are we not receiving updates? Why are officials not allowed to give updates to our councillors? Why has our Mayor not addressed this?” Also in the same predicament, another resident asked…

The DA is having difficulty defining itself within the GNU. The problem is that it wants to lead and oppose at the same time. It is also suffering from a superiority complex. The sooner it deals with the latter, the better. Since the DA has been part of the GNU, it has banged heads with the ANC. It wants to control and lead the unity government. And the ANC is having none of that. Hence, the constant fights. The other problem is the DA leadership: i.e. John Steenhuisen and Helen Zille. Steenhuisen wants the party to stay in the GNU, while Zille wants it out. As a result, the two don't see eye to eye when it comes to the matter. Additionally, Steenhuisen wants to be seen as in control…

Mikel Arteta believes Bukayo Saka can tilt the balance of power in Arsenal's favour in Tuesday's "beautiful" Uefa Champions League quarter-final clash with Real Madrid. Saka is in contention to feature against Real in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium after making two substitute appearances since returning from three months on the sidelines. The 23-year-old hasn't appeared in Arsenal's starting line-up since December 21 at Crystal Palace. But Saka showed he has shaken off the rust by scoring in his first game back against Fulham last week and impressing in Saturday's draw at Everton. Gunners boss Arteta is confident the England forward, who needed surgery on a hamstring injury, can play a decisive role as Arsenal look to eliminate holders Real. "He's in a much better place. Obviously, we…

Is Ruben Amorim’s project at Manchester United in danger of imploding after another tepid display in the derby? While many of his backers feel it’s too early into his reign to start looking elsewhere, patience seems to be wearing thin. The stick currently being used to beat the Portuguese manager with is United’s poor form in front of goal. They are apparently in the company of relegation-threatened Leicester on that front since Amorim’s arrival. Striking out Many have pointed to the form of club castaways like Marcus Rashford and Antony elsewhere as a sign of Amorim’s failings. Comparisons with the likes of Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojland were inevitable. They have done nothing to dispel the notion that they are way out of their depth at a club that was…

In a massive diplomatic push, economic advisors of US President Donald Trump, have said that 50 countries have come forward to negotiate for better tariffs from the country. This comes after Trump announced sweeping tariffs across the board last week that brought the global economy to its knees, with markets crashing to lows that had economists and analysts alike, fearing for a global recession. Countries are keen on restructuring these financial barriers to foster co-operative trade relationships that could bolster their economies while alleviating the strains of recent trade disputes. These tariffs have not only altered the landscape of international commerce but have also triggered retaliatory measures from some nations, further complicating global trade relations. With inflation rates and economic recoveries at the forefront of global policies, the need for…

Last week saw South Africa’s Parliament approve a phased increase in VAT, sparking debates about its impact on the economy. Meanwhile, the ongoing trade conflict with the US intensified as President Trump imposed new tariffs, leading to fears of a global economic slowdown. Trump’s sweeping tariffs have ignited trade wars, causing market turmoil and uncertainty. As Peter Drucker once noted, “The best way to predict the future is to create it,” and South Africa must navigate these turbulent waters with resilience and strategic foresight. I was encouraged to see a statement by ministers Ronald Lamola and Parks Tau largely agree that the best way forward is to work hard to improve relations with the US but also enhance the focus both on stimulating domestic growth and improving our trade relations…

Standard Bank concluded its third annual UniHack Competition on April 3, showcasing innovative student-led tech solutions to tackle South African challenges in education, mental health, and disability support. The two-day event in Cape Town saw 13 university teams compete, leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to address pressing societal issues, Standard Bank said in a statement on Monday. Gerald Perumal, Standard Bank’s technology head of Strategy Enablement, said, “The UniHack Competition has once again highlighted the exceptional talent and innovative spirit of our young participants. Their ability to adapt and design applications to solve challenging problems in these areas is truly inspiring.” The winning team, High Five, took first place with “Handy,” an app that translates sign language into text in real-time to aid communication for the hearing-impaired. Comprising students…

“I’m sorry, but I think you’re aware your voice talent job is going to disappear.” I won’t lie, when African creative industries expert Marie Lora-Mungai delivered this blunt assessment during our recent African Tech Roundup Podcast conversation, I felt gut-punched. Our exchange came in the wake of a LinkedIn post Lora-Mungai put out a week ago issuing a stark message to African filmmakers about AI disruption—one that struck uncomfortably close to home. “While you’re spending hours in the edit suite, writing grant applications, or attending festivals, AI has already rewritten the script for the entire industry,” she warned. The post went viral, precisely because it articulated what many creatives fear but few appear willing to confront. Senegalese filmmaker Hussein Dembel Sow’s response crystallised the paradox facing African creatives: “Across the…

MTN Group has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Synamedia, a leading video software provider, to develop a new streaming platform tailored for mobile and fixed broadband subscribers across Africa. This collaboration aims to enhance digital content accessibility and provide a diverse range of viewing options to meet the evolving preferences of audiences throughout the continent. By harnessing Synamedia's advanced cloud-based technologies, the new platform will provide a robust offering of linear television and video-on-demand content. This strategic move aims to not only satisfy the diverse viewing habits of consumers but also facilitate digital inclusion across the region. MTN's innovative platform will feature multiple monetisation models, catering to different market segments. Subscribers can look forward to options that include affordable subscription plans, ad-supported content, and free streaming channels powered by targeted…

THE Democratic Alliance (DA) and AfriForum have prodded the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) regarding the disappearance of the Afrikaans news segment. "The sudden disappearance of the Afrikaans news bulletin this past weekend, without any communication from the SABC on the reasons behind this decision, is troubling. “The DA demands that the SABC provide immediate clarification on why this essential service has been halted. It is crucial that we understand whether this is a permanent change, a once-off incident, or something else entirely," said DA national spokesperson, Willie Aucamp. Aucamp went on to say that the DA will write to the SABC to get immediate answers on this topic and ask the broadcaster to restore the Afrikaans news bulletin as soon as possible, ensuring that all South Africans, regardless of…

The Drakenstein Municipality has said that multiple departmental teams are continuing to clean up Newrest, Wellington, this morning after a fire wreaked havoc early on Sunday morning, claiming the life of a woman and leaving between 800 and 1 000 destitute. About 200 informal structures were destroyed in the fire that erupted shortly after midnight on Sunday morning, aggravated by a strong southeasterly wind. The Drakenstein Municipality's Fire and Rescue Services were at the scene a couple of minutes after the fire was reported, and activated the firefighting services of Stellenbosch Municipality, which arrived 30 minutes later. Altogether five pumpers and three bushfire vehicles were on the scene. Despite a howling Southeaster wind, the firefighting crews extinguished the fire at around 5am on Sunday. The municipality extended its condolences to…

The Lotus Gardens, Atteridgeville, and Saulsville Civic Association (Lasca) has vowed to boycott the City of Tshwane's outreach programmes, refusing to participate until their grievances about the Metro’s debt-relief incentive scheme are addressed. The civic group is unhappy that the debt relief scheme, adopted by the council in February, has not led to the cancellation of outstanding municipal bills for many indigent households. The civic group's ultimatum comes at a critical juncture as the municipality is gearing up to launch a public participation process to gather residents' input on the proposed budget and integrated development plan for the 2025/2026 financial year. Organisation leader, Tshepo Mahlangu, said the decision to boycott the City's outreach programmes was made after a recent community meeting where residents explicitly instructed Lasca to defy any city…

Periods. They're natural, they're unavoidable, and yet they are often downright debilitating. Yet, for centuries, society has expected women to "power through" period pain with a smile on their faces. From stomach-twisting cramps to nausea, migraines, and sheer exhaustion, many women are expected to function as though their bodies aren't waging a hormonal war. But Zambia is flipping the script, leading Africa with a progressive menstrual leave policy - dubbed "Mother's Day" - that's got the rest of the continent talking. Zambia's menstrual leave policy was introduced in 2015, granting women one day off per month to address period-related discomfort no doctor's note is required. Championed by Inonge Wina, Zambia's first female vice president, this policy is a bold recognition of menstrual health as a workplace concern. While some argue…

The rugby season has kicked off with players, parents, coaches and referees preparing for exciting yet physically demanding matches. In many sports, injuries are an unfortunate, common occurrence. However, rugby, inherently a contact sport, carries the inevitable risk of head injuries, ranging from minor concussions to severe Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs). The early detection of head injuries is essential for effective treatment and preventing further complications. Dr Hofmeyr Viljoen, radiologist at SCP Radiology, says that in many cases, the symptoms of a concussion or TBIs may not be immediately apparent, and athletes may continue playing, which can lead to further damage. In the attached article, he talks about the nature of these injuries, the critical role radiology plays in diagnosing and managing them and what preventative measures can be taken.…

South Africa hosted the Africa Children’s Summit in collaboration with the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund in Johannesburg under the theme “Seen, Heard and Engaged in Education” Following the alarming number of violent crimes involving children in South Africa, the Minister of Social Development, Ms Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe, highlighted the recent report on the state of the child in South Africa. During her speech at the opening ceremony, she explained that the main objectives of this Summit are to promote child-centred dialogue and advocacy, empower children as agents of and, raise awareness and mobilise for national and regional action. She further stated the obligations of society through the state to protect, respect and promote the right of children to participate in decisions that affect them. ‘‘These include democracy, emerging technologies and…

Lions’ stalwart Bjorn Fortuin believes home advantage will play a critical role in the Cricket SA 4-Day Series final against the Titans at the Wanderers later this week. The defending champions topped the table after the group stages with 115.4 points and are currently unbeaten at the Bullring after winning all three home matches this season. The allrounder believes the Lions, who also beat Western Province in a thrilling final at the same venue last season, believes their local knowledge will be beneficial once again. “I do not think there are any secrets; it is just that at the Wanderers things tend to happen very quickly, and it has also taken us a few seasons to sort of figure it out and we play accordingly,” Fortuin said. “We have seen…

The African Union said on Monday that US tariffs imposed on countries across the continent threatened decades of "mutually beneficial trade and cooperation". AU Commission chairman Mahamoud Ali Youssouf expressed deep concern over the tariffs and urged the US government to reconsider, an AU spokesman said. Youssouf "calls on the US to strengthen, rather than strain, the longstanding partnership rooted in shared values and mutual aspirations," said spokesperson Nuur Mohamud Sheek. Some African countries have been hit harder by tariffs - ranging from 50% for the small African kingdom of Lesotho, a major textile exporter, to 30% and above for South Africa, Madagascar and Botswana. About 30 sub-Saharan African countries benefit from duty-free access to the US market through the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa), an agreement whose future…

The hostile disposition of the US’ President Donald Trump towards South Africa raises serious concerns about the possible exclusion of South Africa as a beneficiary of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa), which is set for renewal in 2025. With South Africa consistently ranking as the top Agoa user, as well as the number one African agricultural exporter under Agoa, we look at the possible ramifications for agriculture. A law implemented in 2000 by the US, Agoa, establishes a unilateral trade preference programme, allowing certain exports from South Africa and many other eligible sub-Saharan African countries to enter the US market, duty-free. Under Agoa, two-thirds of South Africa’s agricultural exports to the US benefit from tariff-free treatment. Since its inception, South Africa has exported over $7 billion (R25bn) worth…

In 2008, scriptwriter Ed Bennett-Coles said he experienced a career "death moment": he read an article about AI managing to write its first screenplay. Nearly two decades later, he and friend Jamie Hartman, a songwriter, have developed a blockchain-based application they hope will empower writers, artists and others to own and protect their work. "AI is coming in, swooping in and taking so many people's jobs," Hartman said. Their app, he said, responds "no... this is our work." "This is human, and we decide what it's worth, because we own it." The ever-growing threat of AI looms over intellectual property and livelihoods across creative industries. Their app, ARK, aims to log ownership of ideas and work from initial brainchild to finished product: one could register a song demo, for example,…

The Overberg Wind Farm project has achieved financial close with leading renewable energy independent power producer, Red Rocket. This landmark initiative is poised to play a crucial role in South Africa's ongoing transition towards clean energy, heralding a new era in renewable resource development. When fully operational, the Overberg Wind Farm will stand as South Africa's largest privately developed wind farm, promising a total export capacity of 380 megawatts (MW). The first phase of the project will secure a substantial 230MW through a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Richards Bay Minerals (RBM), a subsidiary of the Rio Tinto Group. This collaboration is predicted to deliver around 750 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of clean energy annually, marking a significant reduction in RBM's carbon footprint by approximately 30%, equating to a reduction of…

Sirius Real Estate, leading owner and operator of branded business and industrial parks in the UK and Germany, has reported a 12.8% increase in rent roll for the year to March 31, 225. This increase was driven by strong organic growth, ongoing asset acquisitions, and robust demand for space at its business parks, a trading statement released Monday showed. The share price fell 3.05% to R20.05 on the JSE Monday morning, still well up from R17.10 three months ago, but below the R22.72 of a year ago. "Our focus on growth, asset management, and demonstrating the value Sirius' platform can bring to our occupiers allowed us to deliver a strong performance, with momentum building strongly as we finished the year,” said CEO Andrew Coombs. On a like-for-like basis, rent roll…

Helen Zille will be the next prominent South African figure to take the hot seat during the 2025 Roast. Hosted by Showmax, the chairperson of the Federal Council of the Democratic Alliance (DA) is set to take the stage for a no-holds-barred evening of comedy, controversy and entertainment at the Laugh Africa Comedy Festival next month. From her infamous rendition of Brenda Fassie’s Vuli Ndlela to her unfiltered approach, the politician has become renowned for her sharp wit and unfiltered opinions. Zille is confident that she can take the heat. “People do it behind my back, so why not let them do it to my face?” she explained. She added: “I say it like it is and I get roasted on social media and in the press all the time.…

UMKHONTO WeSizwe Party (MKP) chief whip Mzwanele Manyi is in hot water after he suggested that weekends should be scrapped and treated as normal weekdays. "Why aren't Saturday and Sunday normal working days? That 8-day monthly gap makes no sense, especially for the unemployed who need every opportunity to earn and hustle," he posted on X. Manyi was swiftly hit with accusations of being classist, anti-poor and spreading a dangerous message as someone in a position of political power. "Trying to reverse the generational gains of our progressive labour policies hard won through protests and negotiations by civil society and unions?" An X user asked the seasoned politician. The notion of a two-day weekend for workers first emerged in the late 1800s during the Industrial Revolution, with early efforts for…

Gauteng police have confirmed that they have launched a manhunt after three Soweto taxi marshals were gunned down in a hail of bullets in Mofolo Central on Monday morning. According to an eyewitness, the incident took place shortly after 7 am on Monday morning. “All I heard were gunshots, which sounded like fireworks...It was scary as this incident happened shortly after 7 am. As we went to investigate what was happening, we saw three people inside a car riddled with bullets. The driver had about 11 holes in his body. It was a bad situation,” a resident of Mofolo Central in Soweto said following the incident in what looks like yet another taxi-related violent attack in the area. This latest incident in a spate of alleged taxi-related killings comes hot…

In a poignant farewell message following her final appearance on the latest episode of "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" (RHOA), entrepreneur and former Miss USA, Kenya Moore, has taken to social media to express gratitude to her supporters over the past twelve years. As she exits the iconic reality show, Moore acknowledged the challenges she faced during her tenure, particularly the fallout from a controversial incident that led to her departure. "You have been my besties for the last 12 years, and I love and appreciate you so much," Moore wrote in her heartfelt Instagram post. Her emotional message resonated as she reflected on the struggles and triumphs of her journey. "Last year, you cried with me when all of my hard work from the salon was cut by Production,…

Residents from Mbombela in Mpumalanga believe the Marriage Bill will end the worrying cultural tradition of ‘ukuthwala’, where young girls are often forced into marrying older men. The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs has conducted one of three public hearings of the Bill at the Mbombela Local Municipality Civic Centre, marking the first of the public hearings' legs on the Bill in Mpumalanga. According to participants, clauses contained in Chapter 7 of the Bill will provide the required deterrent against males inclined to continue the practice of ukuthwala, also known as bride kidnapping. Also, some participants welcomed the extension of imprisonment to five years to anyone who marries someone without their consent. “There were some concerns raised by marriage officers and prospective marriage officers that the Bill is not practical…

Jose Riveiro’s decision to leave Orlando Pirates will undoubtedly stir deep emotions, not only among the fans but also within the team and management. While his departure is framed by a sense of respect and admiration, the reality is that it can also awaken significant challenges, particularly in the final stretch of the current season. Pirates confirmed last week Thursday that Riveiro would not renew his contract, which expires at the end of the current season. His three years with the club have been marked by notable success: twice finishing as runners-up in the league to Mamelodi Sundowns, securing five knockout trophies, and taking the team to the brink of a CAF Champions League semifinal. Yet, his departure raises more questions than answers, especially concerning the club’s future direction. Announcing…

Heinrich Klaasen was the major omission on the Cricket SA contracted players list announced on Monday. Klaasen is arguably the most sought after white-ball batter in the world currently, with the explosive right-hander currently on a close to R50 million contract with Indian Premier League team Sunrisers Hyderabad. The 33-year-old is also contracted to Durban’s Super Giants in the Betway SA20 and Seattle Orcas at Major League Cricket in the United States. Cricket SA said in a statement on Monday that “discussions regarding Heinrich Klaasen’s future are ongoing, and a final decision will be made in due course.” The global cricket landscape has drastically changed over the last couple of years with leading New Zealand players such as Kane Williamson and Trent Boult turning down national contracts to pursue opportunities…

Southampton have sacked manager Ivan Juric following their relegation from the Premier League, the club announced Monday. Southampton were condemned to relegation in record time after a 3-1 defeat at Tottenham on Sunday. Juric’s bottom of the table side have lost 25 of their 31 top-flight games in a wretched campaign. Relegation with seven fixtures left gives Southampton, last season’s Championship play-off winners, an unwanted Premier League record, surpassing Derby and Huddersfield’s relegations with six games left in 2008 and 2019 respectively. Juric took over from Russell Martin in December, with Southampton already deep in trouble, but the 49-year-old won only one league match, at Ipswich in February. Saints have lost seven of their past eight league matches. Simon Rusk will take charge of the team as interim manager for…