Star -julkaisun 2024-10-17 -irtonumeron sisällysluettelo

Minister of Employment and Labour Nomakhosazana Meth has argued for an increase in occupational health and safety standards across the board given that levels of non-compliance were still high in South Africa. Speaking yesterday at the launch of the Occupational Health and Safety strategy for the period between 2024 and 2029, which has been endorsed by the International Labour Organization, Meth said that the strategy would improve the occupational health and safety of workers in South Africa and serve as a guiding road map. “We want to ensure that prevention principles are inculcated in all work practices,” she said. At the ceremony, stakeholders from compensation funds, the department, business bodies, and organised labour signed the new accord, which aims to reduce workplace injury and sickness payouts so that the money…

AFRICA-focused e-commerce retailer Jumia Technologies will close its South African online fashion retailer Zando and its Tunisian operations by the end of the year to sharpen its focus on its other markets, the CEO said. Jumia is aggressively cutting costs to try to turn profitable, including by reducing head count, exiting everyday grocery items and food delivery, and cutting delivery services not related to its e-commerce business. “The trajectory of the countries did not align with the strategy of the group,” CEO Francis Dufay said, citing complex macroeconomics, the competitive environment and low medium-term potential for growth and profitability. “It enables us to refocus our resources on the other nine markets where we see more promising trends in terms of scale and profitability.” Jumia’s remaining markets include Egypt, Kenya, Morocco…

The sugar industry’s assertion that any increase to the sugar tax or lowering of the threshold will impact the sugarcane sector, resulting in 25 000 cane farmers being pushed out of business, and ‘plunging families into poverty’ is too good to be true. Why is this wrong? Well, they say so themselves. According to the SA Canegrowers Annual Report 2022/2023, “soaring input costs have made for a difficult operating environment in the sugar industry. The cost of fuels and lubricants has increased by 12%, fertilizers by 34% and irrigation by 45%.” Furthermore, according to the sugar industry’s own report, “the average increase, combining all these inputs, was over 11%. This while increases in the price of sugar was limited to 7% over the term of the Sugarcane Value Chain Masterplan…

As an entrepreneur or business owner, you likely wear many hats – salesperson, strategist and HR, to name a few. But the most crucial role you play in your business is that of a leader. Being a good boss or manager not only influences your team’s performance; it also has a major impact on your corporate culture and overall success. Whether you’re running a small start-up or managing a growing small and medium enterprise (SME), improving your leadership skills can directly impact productivity, employee retention, and ultimately your bottom line. With October 16 being Boss’s Day, it’s the perfect time to reflect on your leadership approach and identify areas for improvement. Here are five things you can do to become a better boss or manager: 1.Prioritise clear communication Effective communication…

A group of eight township furniture makers have between them created 42 jobs and generated a turnover of R2 million since joining a two-year entrepreneurial development programme. The group graduated from the programme at a ceremony held at the Pernod Ricard Foundation earlier this week. John Baptiste Mathebula and Manyane Rantai, co-directors of Add Decor and Projects, turned their creative vision into concrete profits and employment for members of their community, after learning the craft of furniture making as part of the Pernod Ricard Makers Programme, in partnership with the Gauteng Provincial Government and the Furniture Technology Centre Trust (Furntech). Mathebula began his creative journey as a schoolboy sketch artist, doing portraits of classmates and his social circle, before earning a living by doing paintings on commission for local restaurants.…

Super Group, the South Africa-headquartered logistics and mobility solutions group operating across sub-Saharan Africa, UK, Europe, and Australasia, has demonstrated its financial stability and commitment to shareholder value with a 60 cents per share final dividend. The company has also implemented a revised long-term incentive share scheme for executives following shareholder feedback. Super Group chairman Valentine Chitalu, in the integrated report released yesterday, expressed confidence in their ability to adapt to volatile conditions and achieve its long-term goals, despite challenging environments in its operating markets. The dividend payout reflects this optimism and the company's strong financial position. Following insufficient shareholder support for remuneration policies at the last annual general meeting, Super Group has introduced a new Conditional Share Plan (CSP) scheme. This plan, to be implemented in the year to…

Podcast and Chill co-host, MacG, has apologised to amapiano star Nkosazana Daughter for suggesting that Sir Trill is not the father of her child. The apology came after Daughter filed a R13 million defamation lawsuit against MacG earlier this week. MacG made the comments in July, during an episode of his podcast, where he claimed that Master KG is the father of Daughter’s child and not Sir Trill’s as people may assume. “Someone in Botswana told me and they are very close to Nkosazana Daughter. Apparently, that’s not Sir Trill’s kid, it’s Master KG’s kid, bro. I kid you not,” MacG said at the time. Daughter filed the lawsuit in the Johannesburg High Court, seeking damages for the harm done to her reputation and emotional state. The lawsuit highlights that…

The disturbing case of the Menendez brothers murdering their parents might have taken place more than three decades ago but it has recently returned to the spotlight. This is largely due to Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan’s Netflix anthology series Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, which has brought the true crime story to a new generation. It chronicles the chilling ordeal of the siblings who were sentenced to life without parole in 1996 for the murder of their parents, José and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menendez. Initially, they had told police their parents had been dead when they had arrived home. However, the brothers eventually confessed to the parricide. They said they had shot their parents multiple times at close range at their mansion in Beverly Hills on August…

The University of Pretoria (UP) recently welcomed Professor Francis Petersen as its new Vice-Chancellor and Principal, during a special event attended by UP’s senior management. In his response, Petersen acknowledged the important role UP plays both locally and globally, while also outlining a path toward continuous improvement and enhanced academic excellence. “The University of Pretoria is an excellent academic institution, adding so much to our country, the continent, and the globe.” In his message, he acknowledged that, like any organisation, UP has areas of strength and opportunities for improvement. He emphasised that the key to progress lies in consistent reflection and the pursuit of excellence. “In both of these cases, we will assess and reflect, and we will enhance and improve – continuous improvement should be the basis of our…

Internationally acclaimed choreographer, dancer, and social entrepreneur Paul Modjadji takes viewers on a vibrant celebration of Africa’s rich cultures in Breaking Down Borders Africa, a 14-part travelogue series. On this latest endeavour, Modjadji explores 10 African countries, showcasing both iconic landmarks and the inspiring narratives of youth activists and artists across the continent. Over the past few weeks, Modjadji and his crew have explored historical gems and cultural hotspots in countries such as Zambia, Namibia, Tanzania, Kenya, and Nigeria, recently reached the halfway mark with the latest episode featuring Nigeria. Audiences can anticipate more exhilarating adventures as the series continues its odyssey to Senegal, Botswana, and Lesotho, concluding with two special episodes that highlight Croatia and local gems in Gauteng. Speaking about the series, Modjadji expressed how delighted he is…

Officials from the City of Johannesburg, Al Jama-ah, Cosatu, the SACP, the ANC, and other labour and political formations joined forces with Africa4Palestine in a desperate attempt to persuade the Gauteng Provincial Government to rename Sandton Drive as Leila Khaled, in honour of one of the world’s most notable freedom fighters. On Tuesday, they submitted more than 60 000 signed petitions to the Johannesburg Arts, Culture, and Heritage Offices. Receiving the petitions, MMC for Community Development Kabelo Gwamanda reflected on the legacy of Nelson Mandela and the contribution made by Khaled in the fight for freedom for their people and the entire global community. “Our government will always stand on the side of justice. We also welcome those who are against the street renaming because everyone has a right to…

To say that the Volkswagen Polo Vivo is an extremely popular vehicle would be understating the very obvious. Volkswagen sold 24000 of them last year, making it South Africa’s most popular passenger car. But I don’t really need to tell you that. Unless you live in Koggelsfontein, in which case you’re probably only used to seeing Hilux and Land Cruiser bakkies, you just need to look around you - Polo Vivos are everywhere. But with the current version having been around since 2018, itself closely based on the fifth-generation Polo introduced here in 2010, Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA) knew it had to do something to keep its evergreen budget hatch fresh, particularly in light of increased competition from newer compact crossovers entering the market. And so the local development team…

The compact SUV market is a highly contested space and while the Kia Sonet has always impressed with its quality and practicality, its pricing has crept out of reach for many buyers. That should change with the introduction of a new LS model grade, as well as significant “deal assistance” on the remainder of the range. The new Sonet 1.5 LS comes in at R299 995 in manual guise and R324 995 as a CVT, undercutting the previous base model, the LX, by a considerable R67 000 in the recently facelifted range. However the remaining models, excluding the new LS, are being offered with a R40 000 deal assistance between now and the end of 2024. Kia South Africa CEO Paul Turnbull said the introduction of the new LS base…

Imagine walking into that exam room with confidence, not butterflies. As the coming exams draw nearer, it is time to redefine what’s possible regarding exam preparation. Are you feeling as though you are drowning in a sea of textbooks and notes? Learners, we have all been there – caught in a whirlpool of anxiety, running worst-case scenarios through our minds. The anxiety can be paralysing, but what if you could turn this exam experience into a positive, turning anxiety into an advantage? In this article, I will share practical tips to help you stay focused, calm and confident as you prepare for your exams. The education landscape is changing fast. With digital resources and online courses on the rise, learning is no longer a one-size-fits-all approach. Each learner has the…

If THE reappearance of Richard Kriel this past week is anything to go by, then it suggests that the Lions team to face Zebre in the United Rugby Championship this weekend might be on course for a bit of a change-up. Kriel is back to full fitness after a prolonged injury – he last played for the Joburgers against the Ospreys in March – and as such, has yet to make an appearance this season. The 24-year-old played 16 of the 18 matches during the last campaign, compiling 1 189 game minutes. He finished the season as one of the tournament’s top 100 players, and the third-best wing, according to official statistics. Although Lions assistant coach Jaque Fourie cautioned against the dangers the Italian outfit will pose, the fact of…

Sometimes, there is justice in this world – and it didn’t come a moment too soon for the Bulls yesterday as star centre David Kriel was cleared to face the Scarlets in tomorrow’s United Rugby Championship clash in Llanelli (8.35pm start). The Bulls No 12’s red card in last week’s 29-19 victory over the Ospreys in Swansea seemed unjustified, but referee Eoghan Cross sent off Kriel for leading with his forearm into the throat of flyhalf Dan Edwards in the 49th minute. Bulls director of rugby Jake White said afterwards that he hoped to have Kriel available for the Scarlets game, and the Pretoria side succeeded as the United Rugby Championship announced yesterday that the red card had been rescinded. “The panel overseeing the disciplinary process – Roddy Dunlop KC…

12.2% plunge on JSE comes as longs division continues to operate at a loss Optimism is waning for South Africa’s steel industry, ArcelorMittal South Africa (AMSA) said yesterday, identifying the influx of cheap imports, high costs for energy and logistics and weak demand as contributing to this against the backdrop of fresh uncertainty for its long steel business that has continued to operate at a loss. There had been renewed optimism that the steel industry would recover but headwinds and imports have persisted. Market analyst Dave Hazelwood wrote on X yesterday that the South African steel industry was at a precarious point, with the government trying to prop up Amsa and risking prospects for related downstream industries that rely on imports. “(The) local market just isn’t big enough to support…

Russia is seeking to convince BRICS countries to build an alternative platform for international payments that would be immune to Western sanctions when it hosts the group’s leaders at a summit next week. President Vladimir Putin is keen to build up BRICS – which has expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates, with Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa the original members – as a powerful counterweight to the West in global politics and trade. The October 22-24 summit in the city of Kazan is being presented by Moscow as evidence that Western efforts to isolate Russia have failed. It wants other countries to work with it to overhaul the global financial system and end the dominance of the US dollar. Central to that is…

During my time at National Treasury, I had the profound honour and privilege of working closely with one of South Africa’s foremost political figures: Dr Tito Mboweni. His tenure as Minister of Labour, Governor of the South African Reserve Bank, and Minister of Finance came at critical junctures in our nation’s history, and his clear-sighted vision and steady hands while navigating us through these turbulent periods remain an example to all public servants to this day. As a leader, he offered a sharp mind, a deep understanding of economics, and a keen sense of duty. His work laid the bedrock of our labour policies, and helped guide us safely through some of the worst economic storms seen yet in democratic times, including the tumultuous period of the 2020 pandemic and…

In his reflection on the impact of country music, famed singer Willie Nelson once quipped, “Country music is three chords and the truth”. There’s something about country music and the blues’ abilities to provide a mirror to life’s situations in a manner that is honest, sombre, and self-aware, yet leaves us with no comfortable conclusions. We all have moments that remind us that when we think we are taking flight, we are, in fact, making huge leaps whose inevitable conclusion is landing firmly on the ground, our backsides providing the cushion. My Icarus moment came recently when I found myself in hospital for three days. There’s something about being in hospital that evokes feelings of helplessness, humility, and loneliness once the nurses, doctors, and loved ones have left. The air…

Northam Platinum has an enhanced liquidity profile and will be able to meet its capital requirements in the medium term despite persistently low Platinum Group Metals (PGM) prices, noted analysts at ratings agency GCR Ratings. South African PGM executives are expecting prices of the metals to improve as they keep their eyes on containing costs and ramping up production. Despite the low prices, China said this week that it would launch its first platinum and palladium futures in the first quarter of next year, with analysts saying SA should regularly feature on the planned exchange given its high endowment of PGM. GCR - a Moody’s Ratings affiliated agency - said yesterday that Notham’s “ratings outlook remains on stable” while affirming the miner’s national scale long and short term issuer ratings…

British American Tobacco (BAT) is optimistic about achieving organic revenue growth in its 2024 financial year, despite grappling with challenging market conditions and increasing competition from the illicit trade sector. CEO Tadeu Marroco yesterday emphasised the need for supportive regulatory environments to strengthen the company's operations and enhance market stability. In a statement, BAT confirmed that it remained on track to deliver low single-digit organic revenue and adjusted profit from operations growth for the fiscal year 2024. The company expressed its ambition to progressively improve these figures, targeting 3-5% organic revenue growth and mid-single figures in adjusted profit from operations by 2026. “Extrapolating current spot rates, we anticipate currency translation to be a 5% headwind on FY24 adjusted profit from operations,” BAT noted, acknowledging the impact of fluctuating exchange rates…

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has once again refuted accusations of corruption levelled against him by AfriForum and the Democratic Alliance (DA). The allegations surfaced following claims that Lesufi had been concealing over 58 outstanding forensic reports that implicate prominent members of the ANC, further intensifying the ongoing tensions within the Gauteng political landscape. The controversy erupted when the DA accused Lesufi of doctoring and withholding critical reports just a day before Lesufi took to the media to address these serious allegations. Lesufi is at the centre of a conspiracy involving “rampant corruption, money laundering, and fraud” within the Provincial Government, according to a report by AfriForum published in The Star. This claim comes amid a scandal surrounding the Gauteng Department of Social Development, where 13 officials who had been embroiled…

Former National Assembly speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula made her first appearance in the Gauteng High Court, Pretoria, yesterday. She is on trial for alleged corruption and money-laundering. In July, IOL reported that the case against Mapisa-Nqakula had been moved from the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court to the high court, with her first appearance scheduled for yesterday, for a pretrial conference to pave the way for the trial. During the brief court appearance yesterday, the court heard that Mapisa-Nqakula’s counsel has not received some sections of the case docket and that they would be making an application for the documents. This necessitated the postponement of the case to December 5. Mapisa-Nqakula was served with the original indictment, setting out the charges against her, when she appeared in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court.…

RESIDENTS in Hammanskraal and surrounding areas have been forced to endure a serious water shortage for weeks due to the shutdown of Temba water treatment works following concerns over water pollution in Leeuwkraal dam. Chairperson of Utilities Services in the City of Tshwane, Flora Monama, has called for calm and patience among residents who continue to air their frustration over the lack of water. In a video circulated on social media, Monama urged residents to be patient with the metro as it is working on addressing their water woes. She predicted that the problem must be solved during the coming weekend, adding that the City won’t provide dirty water to residents and put their lives at risk. Tshwane senior official Sipho Madhlabane, said a highly contaminated Leeukraal dam which affected…

Guests evacuated after fire at Kruger National Park Guests at Olifants Rest Camp had to be evacuated and relocated to nearby rest camps after a fire broke out at the camp on Tuesday night at Kruger National Park. According to a statement released by South African National Parks (SANParks), while the fire was contained, it proved impossible to remove the belongings of guests and three chalets were evacuated. In a video shared to the social media platform, TikTok, the three chalets can be seen gutted by the fire. This fire is just one of two fire incidents reported to have occurred at the park on Tuesday. The first fire occurred at Satara Rest Camp, where embers from a braai fire landed on the thatch roof of a chalet, setting it…

WE first heard about Omoda last year, when it introduced the C5, a well-heeled and well-priced front-wheel drive compact crossover that’s been taking sales away from more traditional manufacturers like Kia, Mazda, Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, Audi and BMW. Omoda (and Jaecoo) forms part of the larger Chery group, is the company’s luxury brand and are sold only outside China. With the success of the C5, Omoda has now set its sights on the luxury category with the launch of the C9. There are two models available: the front-wheel drive, Inspire, and the all-wheel drive, Explore. Both are powered by a four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbo-charged petrol engine delivering 192kW and 400Nm coupled to an eight speed Aisin automatic transmission. At first glance, it looks like a Range Rover, which shouldn’t be a surprise…

ISUZU Motors South Africa has teamed up with filmmaker Zandile Ndhlovu to inspire a culture of reading and of environmental awareness among South Africa’s youngest generation. Ndhlovu, who is also a conservationist, social activist and South Africa’s first black female freediving instructor, has authored a picture book entitled Zandi’s Song, which shares a story about marine conservation and the importance of curbing plastic pollution. Isuzu will donate 3 000 copies of this book to Grade 1 to 4 learners across five primary schools in the Eastern Cape and Western Cape. In addition, the Qgeberha-based motor company will donate recycling resources to participating schools as well as additional educational resources such as workbooks and posters via the Pick n Pay School Club. “With South Africa battling with low literacy levels at…

A LOT has changed in South African sport since the last ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final in Cape Town last year. The Springboks have gone on to create history, becoming the first-ever country to win more than three Rugby World Cups. In football, Bafana Bafana have raised the bar significantly, reaching the semi-final and finishing third at this year’s Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire. The Proteas Men’s team rewrote history, reaching their first-ever World Cup final in the T20 World Cup in Barbados this past winter. This has led to a higher level of optimism and belief in the national teams. To an extent, the level of belief in the SA players is at an all-time high. It is this belief that runs deep in the Proteas…

Thomas Tuchel was named England’s new manager yesterday, with the Football Association turning to the German to try to land their first major trophy since 1966. Former Chelsea manager Tuchel will start in the role from January 1, 2025 on an 18-month deal to the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup. The 51-year-old, who has been out of work since leaving Bayern Munich at the end of last season, succeeds Englishman Gareth Southgate as permanent coach, and becomes the third foreign manager of the Three Lions after Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello. Tuchel, who has also coached Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain, has the trophy-winning pedigree that the FA is seeking to help end a 58-year wait to win a major tournament since the 1966 World Cup on home soil.…

The second day of the Sasol League National Championship play-offs proved challenging for Gauteng representatives FC Raycon as they succumbed to a late strike from Mpumalanga’s Super Strikers to go down 1-0 at the picturesque Loerie Park Stadium in Knysna yesterday. The match, played under bright blue skies following a tumultuous opening day, underscored the competitive nature of the tournament and the slim margins that often determine victory. The Maroons, known for their enduring spirit, faced immense pressure to perform at the championships, a platform often occupied by footballing giants. Lapses in concentration were evident, and this was reflected in the loss, with head coach Koketso Matsetela describing his side’s performance as commendable, even amid the disappointment. “My girls played very well, but that was a special goal. We deserve…

Shopping in South Africa rebounded as the retail sector recorded a notable uptick in sales during August, reflecting a gradual positive shift in consumer behaviour and market conditions. Data released by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) yesterday revealed a year-on-year increase of 3.2% in retail sales following a downwardly revised 1.7% increase in July. This marked the sixth consecutive month of growth in retail activity, and at a robust pace as six of the seven retail groups recorded a positive month. Stats SA said the most significant contributor to this increase was the general dealers category, which saw a robust rise of 4.6%. This upswing was notably supported by food and beverages, which reported growth of 5.4%. Siphamandla Mkhwanazi, FNB senior economist, highlighted that this improvement surpassed market expectations, previously…

Africa needs to use technology from China and US and have all work together, says Wangari Muchiri, the Africa director at the Global Renewables Alliance. She was speaking on the sidelines of the inaugural Investment Forum for Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Africa held in Nairobi, Kenya. Muchiri is a visionary renewable energy engineer leading initiatives to advance wind power. She has several awards under her belt, including being named a Global Climate Leader by Insider, an Africa Power & Energy Elite and Obama Leader for Africa. Mchuri renewed her call for global North-South and South-South collaboration on renewable energy amid global geopolitical volatility. She first made this call at the SDG Media Zone held on the sidelines of the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York…

Businesses across the globe are bracing for a sharp increase in insolvencies, projected to climb by 11% in 2024, the Allianz Group’s latest Global Insolvency Report showed yesterday. This marks a steeper rise than previously forecast, amid persistent concerns over sluggish demand, geopolitical tensions, and erratic financing conditions. However, amid this daunting global outlook, South Africa emerges as a beacon of hope, reflecting substantial economic progress driven by strategic reforms and the revitalisation of its energy sector. Allianz Trade, Allianz Group’s trade credit insurer, highlighted yesterday that the improvements to the country’s energy supply have brought a significant 14% increase in energy supply over the past four months compared to the previous year. This enhancement is seen as a crucial pivot for local businesses, enhancing productivity and reducing disruptions in…

The Automotive Industry Transformation Fund (AITF) is igniting a new era of opportunity and growth for South Africa’s automotive sector, empowering emerging entrepreneurs to be at the forefront of transformation. As the fund embarks on its next chapter, in alignment with the Automotive Production and Development Programme (APDP 2), AITF calls on bold, visionary entrepreneurs to apply for funding and join in driving the future of the industry. AITF Chief Executive Officer Jabu Selumane reflected on the remarkable progress made since the fund’s inception and its commitment to creating a more inclusive, thriving automotive industry. “In just a few short years, we’ve surpassed expectations, funding over 67 companies and distributing R596 million across the automotive value chain. Our goal is to support 90 companies by 2029, and we are well…

Quilter, the UK investments and wealth management group listed on the JSE and London Stock Exchanges, has reported exceptional third-quarter performance with net inflows of £1.4 billion (R32.1bn), significantly outpacing previous quarters. Despite traditionally slower summer months, both High Net Worth and Affluent segments show robust growth, with Platform net inflows hitting a record £1.5bn, the group said in a trading statement yesterday. CEO Steven Levin said: "Both of our segments contributed to a significantly improved outcome from an already strong first half base." The third quarter net inflows were markedly higher than the strong first and second quarter levels of £810 million and £923m respectively. Group assets under management and administration (AuMA) increased by 2% to £116.2bn by the end of September, reflecting net inflows and higher market levels,…

Renowned journalist and TV show host Shahan Ramkissoon will be hosting the reunion special of The Mommy Club: Sugar & Spice season one. The reunion will air on Showmax on Friday, October 25. Since airing in August, the Durban iteration of the Saftas-nominated original show, The Mommy Club, proved to be a huge success among viewers. Produced by POP24, the first-of-its-kind reality show delved into the lives of glamorous mothers from Durban’s Indian community, showcasing their seemingly perfect lives. Each episode allows viewers to witness the lives of the women as they shift between the roles of business leaders, caregivers and mentors. Through laughter and challenges, the show reveals the vulnerabilities of the cast, showcasing the emotional landscape of motherhood, where joy is often marred by self-doubt and societal…

Tyla’s self-titled debut album has gone gold in the US after it sold more than 500 000 units there. The 22-year-old singer-songwriter dropped her debut album in March and it has dominated the charts, with her single, Water, going viral, and Jump, featuring American rapper Gunna and Jamaican musician Skillibeng, also receiving widespread acclaim. The music video for Jump achieved impressive numbers on YouTube, reaching 2 million views in just two days. ART and Truth or Dare are also fan favourites. Tyla earned nominations for Album of the Year, Best Pop Album, Newcomer of the Year and Female Artist of the Year at the 30th annual South African Music Awards, which will be held on November 2.…

Former spin doctor and ANC National Executive Committee (NEC) member, Pule Mabe and eight co-accused have appeared in the Palm Ridge Specialised Commercial Crime Court in Ekurhuleni yesterday, facing charges of corruption. The seven, including Mabe’s wife Mmatlhekelo Elsie Mabe, were granted bail of R30 000 and the matter was postponed to March 25, 2025. The other two accused are companies. The case involves a controversial R27 million tender for waste collection vehicles, awarded under what has been termed “suspicious” circumstances. The tender was allegedly unlawfully awarded to Mabe’s company, KG Media trading as Enviro Mobi, in March 2017. Enviro Mobi is listed as accused eight while Mabe is accused seven. The Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (GDARD) awarded the company a contract to deliver 200 motorised three-wheeled…

After being wrongly accused of assaulting the male acting principal at Diepkloof Community College of Education and Training by a fellow teacher, the Soweto teacher, who now stays with strangers, had her life completely turned upside down. Elizabeth Sibiya was unaware that she had “allegedly assaulted” Mnanawe Nomgqokwane, her male colleague, for more than a year. She didn’t realise it until 2017, when police visited Sibiya and questioned her about an unrelated incident, at which point she realised the entire school had been the scene of a crime. “The whole school on the day was a crime scene and learners were told to leave and I was left alone with two police officers who took me to Diepkloof police station. I was questioned on having assaulted Mr Nomgqokwane, something I…

Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation, Supra Mahumapelo, has led a “successful” oversight visit to the South African embassy in Beijing, the People’s Republic of China, where the committee was warmly received by Ambassador Siyabonga Cwele and his staff. Mahumapelo described the oversight visit as “meaningful”, adding that it shed some light on the huge responsibility facing the South African mission in China to maintain political and economic diplomatic relations between the two countries. Parliament said the visit also proceeded with meetings with other stakeholders in Chinese cities of Beijing and Shanghai. The parliamentary committee members were given a real South African welcome and they expressed appreciation of the the professionalism and dedication displayed by the embassy led by Cwele in facilitating a smooth process.…

The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) is today conferring honorary doctorates upon four outstanding individuals; Professor Pitika Ntuli, the late Samora Machel, Bongi Dhlomo and Wouter Kellermen. This prestigious recognition of these individuals serves as a testament to their exceptional contributions to their respective fields and to society at large. Honorary doctorates hold an important place in the academic community and are bestowed upon individuals who have demonstrated exemplary achievement. These individuals serve as inspirational figures: their work and accomplishments align with TUT’s values and our vision of being a university that makes knowledge, addressing the challenges of our time through cutting-edge teaching, learning and research. Ntuli will be awarded with a degree of Doctor of Language Practice (honoris causa) from the Faculty of Humanities. He is a South African…

After weeks of fierce competition and breathtaking performances, the reality music competition show uShuni Womhlaba has unveiled the top three finalists who are set to battle for the coveted title in the grand finale. The semi-final episode culminated in a memorable experience featuring gripping performances that saw the contestants share the stage with some of South Africa’s most beloved music legends. The three finalists moving forward to the final showdown are Mthobisi Gudazi (aka Gudaazi), Lindokuhle Mthimunye (Lindo Jay Music), and Thandikhaya Magayiyana (Joliza Bhacasoul). Each of these artists has captured the hearts of Mzansi with their unique sounds, impressive artistic growth, and captivating stage presence. Meet the Finalists: Mthobisi Gudazi (aka Gudaazi): Hailing from eManzimtoti, KwaZulu-Natal, Gudaazi brings a soulful edge to the competition. A master of fusing traditional…

The countdown has begun! With just one week remaining, the Manufacturing Indaba 2024 is set to open its doors to industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders from across the African continent and beyond. Taking place from October 22 – 23 at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, this year’s event promises to provide unparalleled insights into the future of African manufacturing. The Manufacturing Indaba is renowned as the premier manufacturing event on the continent, bringing together decision-makers from government, industry, and the private sector to explore cutting-edge developments, share knowledge, and discuss opportunities that will shape the future of manufacturing in Africa. What to Expect: In-Depth Discussions: Panel discussions featuring thought leaders from across the sector will address the most pressing challenges and opportunities, including industrial automation, sustainability, and the role…

Audi has pulled the covers off its new Q6 Sportback e-tron at the Paris Motor Show, which takes place this week. It’s a sleeker version of the Audi Q6 e-tron SUV that was unveiled earlier this year, featuring a coupé-inspired sloping roof. Audi South Africa says it plans to launch the new Sportback model, alongside its conventional Q6 sibling, towards the end of the second quarter of next year. Pricing will be determined nearer to the time. The Q6 e-tron is based on the company’s Premium Platform Electric architecture and is 37mm lower than the regular Q6 SUV. Despite the sloping roof that’s said to be inspired by the Audi TT, the new model boasts a boot capacity of 511 litres with the seats in place, while customers can also…

THIS is not how it was supposed to be. Bafana Bafana’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign was meant to be sewn up by now. But such is the fickle nature of sport at the top that even the best laid plans can sometimes go awry. And they have done so in a big way for Hugo Broos and his team, haven’t they? Though yet to lose after four matches, the national team have dropped four points that have left them under some pressure going into the final two matches of the qualifiers next month. Bafana will travel to Kampala for a tricky clash against a Uganda side that almost beat them in the opening match at Orlando Stadium in September knowing that nothing can be taken for granted. They…

PROTEAS fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has voiced urgent concerns regarding player management within Cricket South Africa. In an exclusive interview with Independent Newspapers, and as the 29-year-old gears up for an important two-match Test series against Bangladesh, the paceman emphasises the need for CSA to modernise their approach to retain players amid the allure of lucrative T20 opportunities worldwide. “The management of the players needs to be up to scratch because these days, you have lucrative deals with the T20 leagues and it’s literally about CSA ensuring that the players are looked after,” Rabada said. “That’s the name of the game. There needs to be cohesion between the players and CSA. If that gets achieved and there’s total buy-in from both, then we’re smiling. “Where we are as cricket in…