Starの 2024-11-07 の目次

Bitcoin soared to a record high yesterday as traders bet on victory for Donald Trump in the US presidential race, with the tycoon seen as the pro-crypto candidate. The digital currency hit as much as $75 005.08 (R1.3 million)at around 5am, topping its previous peak of $73 797.98 achieved in March. “The price of bitcoin has closely followed Trump’s position in the polls and on betting markets,” Russ Mould, an analyst at AJ Bell, said ahead of Tuesday’s US election. Investors were “potentially taking the view that a Republican victory would lead to a surge in demand for the digital currency”, he added. During his first term in office Trump referred to cryptocurrencies as a scam, but has since radically changed his position. He even launched his own platform for…

Policy shift under new administration could result in significant risks for country’s exports South Africa remained on a knife-edge yesterday as the markets tanked in the aftermath of the US election results, which saw Donald Trump securing his return to the White House as the 47th president of the US. Trump’s victory sent shock waves through local markets, prompting fears of potential economic ramifications stemming from a shift towards protectionism that could adversely affect trade relations between South Africa and its largest trading partner. North-West University Business School economist Professor Raymond Parsons described the election results as a “pivotal and definitive outcome” with profound implications not just for the US economy but for the global economic landscape. Parsons cautioned that the political rhetoric surrounding Trump’s administration could translate into…

The South African Poultry Association (Sapa) on Monday promoted eggs as critical weapon against child malnutrition on the back of rising prices and economic pressures for consumers. In an effort to bolster local egg consumption and address nutritional deficits, Dr Monique Piderit, a consulting dietitian to Sapa’s Egg Organisation, said eggs played a vital role as a versatile, cost-effective source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients. “Eggs are an affordable, nutrient-rich food that can support the healthy growth and cognitive development of children. Given their potential to combat stunting, promoting egg consumption should be a priority,” Piderit said in a statement. Stunting remains a major concern in South Africa, with almost 27% of children at risk, or one-in-three —a statistic that mirrors global data indicating nearly 150 million stunted children…

Even if your business has developed the most exceptional product or service, it’s the customer who ultimately determines whether it hits the mark or not. Listening to your customers and integrating their feedback is therefore one of the most effective ways to foster sustainable growth. However, this approach requires a careful balance – you must learn from your customers without losing sight of your long-term vision. One major advantage of actively engaging with customer feedback is the ability to identify issues early. Perhaps a feature you expected to be popular is causing frustration, or a service you considered secondary is turning out to be essential. These insights can be invaluable, helping you adjust your offering before issues escalate. Timely feedback helps to reduce churn, improve satisfaction, and in many cases,…

A multi-stakeholder steering committee has been launched to address pressing issues at Hartbeespoort Dam, aimed at promoting economic development, sustainability, and harmony among stakeholders. The initiative, spearheaded by Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo and North West Premier Lazarus Mokgosi, seeks to tackle concerns affecting businesses and communities around the dam. The Star previously reported on escalating racial tensions in Schoemansville, where Afrikaans-speaking residents were accused of attempting to drive out black entrepreneurs. This situation has left many black business owners fearing for their safety amidst ongoing rivalries. Historically, the dam has served as a hub for business, tourism, and socio-economic activities, but it has also been marred by racial conflicts. The newly formed committee, co-chaired by the department and provincial government, includes representatives from the NW House of…

The Portfolio Committee on Education in the Gauteng Legislature has expressed grave concern over the rising cases of food poisoning affecting learners across the province. During a recent visit to families in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni, committee chairperson Moipone Mhlongo extended heartfelt condolences to families impacted by these tragic incidents. The Xaba family recently lost two young siblings, aged 6 and 9, due to suspected food poisoning after consuming snacks from a local spaza shop. Both children were learners at Sonqoba Primary School in Katlehong. This devastating incident has highlighted the urgent need for enhanced food safety measures in and around schools. The committee has called for a temporary suspension of food sales on school premises until the sources of danger are identified. Mhlongo urged parents to refrain from giving lunch money…

Two co-accused in the Limpopo pig farm murder have abandoned their bail applications. The men, Rudolph de Wet and William Musora, appeared alongside farmer Zachariah Olivier in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court where the matter was postponed to next year. The court was informed that De Wet and Musora no longer wanted to proceed with their bail applications, while Olivier will appear in court on November 22 for his bail application. The men face charges of murder, attempted murder, defeating the ends of justice, possession of firearms and ammunition, and contravening sections of the illegal immigration act. They are accused of killing two women and dumping their bodies in a pigsty. It is alleged that in August, 47-year-old Mariah Makgato and 34-year-old Lucia Ndlovu were shot while entering the Onvervaght farm…

Donald Trump, who has a laundry list of charges that he was proven to be guilty of, will be the ‘leader of the free world’ once more. Trump faced 34 first-degree felony accusations for falsifying company documents in connection with payments made to pornographic film actress Stormy Daniels before the 2016 presidential election. His trial started on April 15, 2024, and the businessman-turned-politician was found guilty on all 34 counts on May 30. Surprisingly, there are numerous other world leaders who have criminal histories. Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva was Brazil’s president who served from 2003 to 2010. But, he was imprisoned in 2018 for corruption. However, his charges were reversed in 2021, allowing him to run for president in 2022 and win in the polls once more. Prime Minister…

THE City of Tshwane is set to secure a R64.5 million partnership with the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) to revitalise the Rooiwal wastewater treatment plant, addressing critical infrastructure challenges and improving water quality in Hammanskraal. This collaboration aims to repair and maintain the plant, ultimately boosting the city's economy. Both parties will enter into a grant agreement that will enable the implementation of necessary maintenance at the Rooiwal plant, including enhancements to chemical dosing. The DBSA grant amounts to R64.5m, with R25m directly funded by DBSA and the remaining amount sourced from other funders. This is crucial, as the effluent from the Rooiwal plant is used as raw water for drinking water production at the Temba water treatment plant. The details about the partnership are contained in a…

The Unisa graduation ceremonies take place twice a year, that is, during autumn and spring. This year, for the autumn graduations, a total of 90 ceremonies were held and for the spring graduations 49. In total, 58 091 qualifications were conferred. These qualifications ranged from PhDs to master’s, honours, and bachelor’s degrees, diplomas and higher certificates. In addition, 13 honorary doctorates were conferred. The graduations at Unisa take place at the main campus in Pretoria, as well as at Unisa's regions. At the Unisa regions the graduations take place in Mbombela, Polokwane, Bloemfontein, East London, Cape Town and Durban. Much work goes into preparing for the graduation ceremonies. To have 58 091 graduands receive their qualifications in one year is a major achievement for any university. The following are just…

The HughFest is set to make an exhilarating comeback this year, bringing together an all-star line-up of artists against the stunning backdrop of the Nirox Sculpture Park on December 1. With performances from renowned acts such as TKZee, The Mahotella Queens, Tete Mbambisa, Zoe Modiga, Dato Seiko with John Selolwane, Khaya Mahlangu featuring Nhlanhla Mahlangu, and DJ sets by Sumthin Brown B2B with DJ Bob, the festival promises an unforgettable day of music and celebration. Celebrating its 11th year, HughFest continues to embrace the unique vision of the late, legendary artist Hugh Masekela. Masekela’s nephew and co-organiser, Mabusha Masekela, emphasised the festival’s commitment to fostering inter-generational conversations about African tradition, heritage, and culture. “Over the past 11 years, the HughFest has embodied Bra Hugh’s vision, continuing to honour our eclectic…

The High Court in Limpopo, based in Polokwane, has sentenced 36-year-old serial rapist Ronny Maluleke from Ritavi village to 98 years direct imprisonment for charges including two counts of housebreaking with intent to rape, and 19 counts of rape. Limpopo spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi said Maluleke was also sentenced for 12 counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances. “The accused pleaded guilty in terms of Section 112 (2) of the Criminal Procedure Act. In his statement, the accused stated that between 2015 and 2021 he had entered the victims’ homesteads during the night where he threatened, robbed the victims before raping them,” said Malabi-Dzhangi. During his criminal rein, Maluleke had also created a Facebook account which he used to lure unsuspecting victims who travelled from Johannesburg,…

Solid-state batteries, though seemingly far from being commercialised, have been touted as the next big breakthrough in battery technology. Once all the technical kinks have been ironed out, these batteries are expected to offer numerous benefits over the lithium-ion units that power most of today’s electric vehicles (EVs), including lower cost, higher energy density and reduced weight. Although numerous carmakers are exploring this technology, Stellantis is aiming to be an early pioneer, with the global auto giant announcing recently that it plans to have a fleet of demonstration vehicles on the road by 2026. These Dodge Charger Daytona vehicles will be equipped with solid-state batteries developed by Factorial and boasting an energy density of over 390 Wh/kg. This is somewhat higher than the lithium-ion norm of around 260 Wh/kg. This…

Meeting Dr Iqbal Survé is a reminder of the profound presence a single individual can bring to a room. His quick smile and thoughtful demeanour make it clear that he is as much about listening as leading, embodying a balance of authority and openness that reveals his commitment to his work. Dr Survé’s vision is as expansive as it is grounded in purpose – an inspiring mix of intellect, generosity, and a profound belief in the importance of accessible, inclusive media for all South Africans. As the Executive Chairman of Sekunjalo Investment Holdings, Dr Survé leads one of South Africa’s prominent diversified investment firms, with interests across multiple sectors. In his role as Executive Chairman of Independent Media, one of the country’s largest media companies, he has brought an ethos…

Ruben Amorim insisted that Sporting Lisbon’s stunning 4-1 rout of Manchester City in the Champions League does not guarantee he will be able to make an immediate impact at Manchester United. Sporting manager Amorim has accepted United’s offer to replace Erik ten Hag, and will officially take charge of the troubled Premier League club on November 11. Regarded as one of Europe’s brightest young managerial minds, the 39-year-old delivered a tantalising glimpse of his acumen as Sporting exposed injury-hit City’s defensive weaknesses. Phil Foden put City ahead in the opening moments at the Jose Alvalade stadium, but the visitors wasted a string of chances to increase their lead and Sporting made them pay. Viktor Gyokeres equalised before half-time, and Maximiliano Araujo bagged Sporting’s second after the break before Gyokeres’ penalty…

South Africa’s troubled journey towards international compliance with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing intensifies as analysts suggest the possibility of a further year on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) greylist. The greylisting, which took effect in February last year, was imposed on South Africa due to its failure to meet international standards related to the tackling of money laundering and the financing of terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The task ahead remains formidable, despite ongoing efforts from the National Treasury, as shown in the third enhanced follow-up report and technical compliance re-rating, to address the FATF’s concerns. Maarten Ackerman, chief economist at wealth management firm Citadel, said yesterday that more still needed to be done by South Africa before it could effectively exit the grey…

Ever since the news broke last week that Vodacom, South Africa’s largest cellular network operator, had its bid to buy fibre network operator Maziv blocked by the Competition Commission, we’ve been inundated by sob-stories of how this “setback” will “widen digital exclusion” in the country’s rural and underserviced areas. To be direct: digital exclusion isn’t an issue in rural areas. Some of these communities are well served by smaller wireless data operators – it’s just that the large cellular providers with extensive coverage and with high pricing models aren’t one of them, and have created that exclusion. Wapa (the Wireless Access Providers Association) applauds the recent decision by the Competition Commission, which we believe is in the interest of consumers getting a fair price for their broadband internet connection. The…

South Africa stands on the cusp of a ratings upgrade should the Government of National Unity (GNU) deliver on higher gross domestic product (GDP) growth, said the Bank of America (BofA) on Tuesday. The country is currently rated below the investment grade with a stable outlook by all three major ratings agencies as a result of deteriorating fiscal metrics, particularly the escalating debt levels, social spending and burgeoning public sector wage bill, leaving the country’s borrowing costs heightened due to the risk level. According to the BofA Securities analyst Tatonga Rusike, firming up business confidence, positive sentiment in policy reforms under the GNU and limited power cuts are pointing in the way of a “potential improving economic outlook” framework. “Ratings upgrades are likely to follow should SA deliver on higher…

John Nkosi is a wood crafter and a furniture maker from a remote area in Elukwatini in Mpumalanga, just on the border with eSwatini. Nkosi travels to Johannesburg at least once a month to display his works at the Rosebank Sunday Market in Johannesburg where he meets most of his affluent clientele. It’s a trip that costs a substantial amount of money in petrol and accommodation, sometimes not worth the investment if he does not make enough sales. But thanks to the introduction of e-commerce through Takealot Township Economy Initiative in rural towns, Nkosi’s days of crisscrossing the country selling his wares will soon be over. “An event like this will assist us especially because it is the connection between me and the technical team of Takealot, because when you…

Oscar-nominated actor Jude Law is set to feature in Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, which will premiere on Disney+ next month. The English actor will play Jod Na Nawood, a character who has been described as a quick-thinker who uses his charm to get out of challenging ordeals. Law, who won a British Academy of Film and Television Arts (Bafta) award for his role in The Talented Mr. Ripley and has also starred in several other productions such as The Holiday, Cold Mountain, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil and A.I. Artificial Intelligence, will be joined by an illustrious cast. These include Ravi Cabot- Conyers, Ryan Kiera Armstrong, Kyriana Kratter, Robert Timothy Smith, Tunde Adebimpe, Kerry Condon and Nick Frost. The series is produced by Lucasfilm, which was founded…

Martha Stewart’s remarkable life story over the past six decades is presented fantastically in her new documentary. Martha, which is streaming on Netflix, chronicles the home-making mogul’s journey from humble beginnings to stardom, incarceration and a remarkable comeback, revealing the personal struggles and triumphs of a pioneering female entrepreneur. It is enhanced by the 83-year-old’s candid interviews in which she speaks openly about the struggles of shaking up the home living and entertainment scene during a time when women were relegated to the background. She also delved into her constant pursuit of perfectionism as well as the challenges of leaving an indelible mark on modern culture and the toll her ambition took on her family earlier in her life. Stewart details her tumultuous love life, including the 27 years she…

Political activist and supporter of former president Jacob Zuma, Sphithiphithi Evaluator, has publicly expressed her grievances against prominent members of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP). In a series of candid social media posts on Tuesday, she detailed her tumultuous interactions with senior party officials, whom she accuses of prioritising power and parliamentary positions over grassroots supporters like herself. Evaluator, whose true identity remains undisclosed for safety reasons, became a vocal advocate for Zuma during the July 2021 unrest in South Africa. However, her current ire is directed at MKP members whom she claims have betrayed her trust. After supporting the party’s high-profile billboard campaign in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, Evaluator revealed feelings of abandonment and financial ruin inflicted by party members, who seemingly rushed for positions post-election while leaving her with unpaid…

There were no Powerball or Powerball Plus jackpot winners in Tuesday’s draw. But someone did have five correct numbers in the Powerball draw and will walk away with R479 003.80. A total of 139 552 people had the Powerball number correct and will each win R10. The Powerball jackpot has rolled over seven consecutive times and an estimated R46 million is up for grabs in the next draw. The Powerball Plus also had no winners, but seven people had five correct numbers and will each win R31 500.30. A total of 116 978 had the Powerball number correct and will each win R5. The jackpot has rolled over 27 consecutive times and the next jackpot is a guaranteed R85million. In recent Lotto news, a woman bagged over R103 million from…

Surveillance cameras will be installed at all government offices in Equatorial Guinea after a high ranking official’s raunchy acts with women, in his office, went viral earlier this week. Vice President of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mangue, said government will roll out the installation of surveillance cameras in all offices of state bodies. “We have taken this measure to ensure compliance with the law on public officials and to eradicate indecorous and illicit behaviour. We will not tolerate it,” he said. Earlier this week, more than 400 sex tapes featuring the country’s director of the National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF), Baltasar Ebang Engonga went viral. In the videos, mostly filmed in his office on his cellphone, he can be seen engaging in sexual acts with various…

Bail has been set at for two foreign nationals, accused of running a marriage-for-visa operation out of a block of flats in Durban’s Grevyille area. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Khalid Hoosen and Sirajbhai Isiyailbhai Patel, aged 58 and 56, made their second appearance in the Durban Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where bail was set at R20 000. At the time of their arrest on October 28, South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson in KwaZulu-Natal, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, said crime intelligence officers, working together with Metro Police Tactical Support Unit, Sydenham Trio Task Team and Home Affairs Immigration officers, pounced on the clandestine Home Affairs office, which was used to facilitate illegal marriages and spousal visas at a block of flats on Matthews Meyiwa Road. He added that…

There’s no letting up from the Chinese vehicle manufacturing industry as they continue to challenge the South African market with well-specced and well-priced offerings. With the launch of the Tiggo Cross, Chery continues that and the group is confident it will add impetus to their quest of taking a top five position in the country’s sales charts. Chery must also be doing something right having secured a third consecutive Gold Award at the National Automotive Dealers Association’s Dealer Satisfaction Index that evaluates more than a thousand dealers’ honest and anonymous opinions of the brands they work with. The compact SUV Tiggo Cross slots in between the popular Tiggo 4 Pro and Tiggo 7 Pro and comes in two variations; Comfort and Elite. As far as SUVs go the Tiggo Cross…

The new-generation Suzuki Swift is being launched in South Africa this week, with the popular compact hatchback gaining a complete redesign inside and out as well as a new engine. Pricing is not too much of a jump over the outgoing version (which started at R213,900) with the entry-level Swift 1.2 GL, available only as a five-speed manual, pegged at R219,900 and gaining additional features over the old base version. Moving to the middle ground, the new Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL+ is priced at R239900 in manual guise and R259900 with the new CVT gearbox option, while the range-topping 1.2GLX now commands R264900 as a manual and R284900 with CVT. It’s better equipped than the old model and, most importantly, all versions now feature six airbags (up from two), as…

Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro is basking in the glory of a remarkable start to the season, having led the team to unprecedented heights, including a record-breaking run. The Buccaneers made it seven victories in as many matches by edging Richards Bay 1-0 at the Orlando Stadium on Tuesday night, a first in the club’s history, and extended their lead on top of the Premiership standings to six points. The Sea Robbers are closely tracked by defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns, who were set to play their game in hand against Polokwane City last night. This early success marks a significant milestone for Riveiro, who took the reins at the iconic Soweto giants just over two years ago. The Spanish-born mentor opened up to the media after an historic night…

Reeza Hendricks may well be 37 when the next T20 World Cup comes around in India, but the veteran opening batter feels that he could still have a role to play. Hendricks has been involved in two previous T20 World Cup campaigns. The first one in Australia in 2021 was hugely frustrating for the stylish right-hander as he was forced to sit on the sidelines while the selectors persisted with an out-of-form former captain Temba Bavuma. At the time, Hendricks was on the reddest of hot streaks coming into the tournament, with a succession of half-centuries. Hendricks’ next experience was equally dire – albeit for different reasons this time. A combination of spicy pitches in both the US and Caribbean earlier this year saw the opener lose all form and…

The rand plummeted to its lowest level in two weeks yesterday as it weakened more than 2%, breaching the R17.80 mark to the US dollar on risk aversion as votes being counted in the US indicated that “Make America Great Again” crusader Donald Trump was set for a second term in the Oval Office. This setback in the currency’s value, which had recently come close to breaking the R17/$1 barrier, was the result of what analysts stated was a knee-jerk reaction to the news that Trump had squeezed in as the next president ahead of Democratic candidate Kamala Harris. Nolan Wapenaar, Anchor Capital’s co-chief investment officer, noted that it had became apparent that Trump would likely be re-elected by the American public over the course of Tuesday night. “This has…

South Africa’s pursuit of digital inclusion faces a significant hurdle - the high cost of broadband access, especially in underserved communities. Starlink, with its promise of affordable satellite internet, presents a potential solution. However, regulatory requirements mandating 30% black ownership for international communications companies pose a challenge. Primarily because at the moment, these organisations are not able to use an Equity Equivalent Program (EEP) to acquire an ICASA licence without a change in regulations. The good thing, however, is that the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi has now announced that his department will look at extending the concept of equity equivalents to multinationals applying for an Electronic Communications Network Service (ECNS) licence. This is a recognition of the potential of an EEP, as this could pave the…

Rural South Africa is often idealised for its breathtaking views, wildlife and cultural heritage. Yet beyond the postcard imagery lies something equally remarkable: a treasure trove of entrepreneurial potential. Former president Thabo Mbeki’s speeches frequently highlighted the “second economy” in need of upliftment to bridge the gap between urban affluence and rural underdevelopment. A critical issue exacerbating the challenge is the alarming lack of empirical evidence and comprehensive data on rural entrepreneurship. When I was tasked with writing a report on rural entrepreneurship, I quickly realised the scale of the challenge ahead. The research process was marked by frustration as I discovered a glaring absence of empirical studies on the topic. Most of the literature was anecdotal or suggestive at best, offering broad observations but lacking the hard data needed…

MTN Rwandacell’s mobile subscribers increased by 5.3% year-on-year to 7.6 million in the nine months to September 30, but active data subscriber numbers declined by 10.3% to 2.3 million. Service revenue increased 1.6% to Rwf189.3 billion (R2.4 billion) earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) decreased 22.6% to Rwf65.7bn. The profit after tax came to a loss of Rwf-10.9bn, impacted by a lower EBITDA and an increase in depreciation on tower leases. “MTN Rwanda remains focused on accelerating its commercial momentum, increasing service revenue, enhancing operational efficiency and fortifying its balance sheet. The company continues to prioritise strategic initiatives to address regulatory challenges,” MTN Rwanda CEO Mapula Bodibe said in a statement. The MTN Group subsidiary said it anticipated low double-digit percentage growth in service revenue for the full…

The Lebombo port of entry on the border with Mozambique, on the main trade route between the two countries, was temporarily closed due to safety concerns and protest action on the Mozambican side, the Border Management Authority (BMA) said yesterday. The port of entry was closed on Tuesday after protests occurred very close to the border post, and in order to preserve the border infrastructure, a spokesperson for the BMA said. “All South African officials are on the ground providing assistance with seven officials from the Mozambican side having requested refuge on the South African side for safety and protection,” BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato said in a statement. “The BMA and its counterparts are working urgently to address the situation, and we appreciate the cooperation we are receiving at…

From local productions to fascinating documentaries and action-packed shows, there are several offerings to enjoy this month. The Orange Couch (S4) A new season of the inspiring series, which premiered this week, takes viewers on a powerful journey of resilience and empowerment. The show follows the gripping story of a survivor who rises above the challenges of gender-based violence and transforms her pain into strength. It provides insight into how she rebuilt her life, confronted her past and flourished against all odds. While the show sheds light on the harsh realities of abuse, it also offers hope for others who are seeking to overcome adversity as it celebrates the triumph of the human spirit. * New episodes drop every Monday at 6pm on SABC 1 (DStv channel 191). The Station…

A survey conducted by Standard Bank which analysed data from over 400 000 South African consumers found that a significant number of consumers were cash-strapped before their next pay day. The survey indicated that consumers who were paid during the middle of the month or towards the end of the month had a R1 000 balance or negative balance before the next pay day. Kabelo Makeke, head of Personal & Private Banking at Standard Bank South Africa, said that the survey analysed 402 000 individuals who receive their salaries on popular payment dates, including mid-month, the 25th, and month-end. “The day before pay day, 21% had R1 000 or less, while 28% had negative balances or were using overdrafts. Only half had more than R1 000 in their accounts.” Makeke…

“Neonatal care is no longer just about ensuring survival – it’s about giving every infant the best possible start in life,” said Professor Carin Maree, a senior lecturer in the Department of Nursing Science at the University of Pretoria (UP), during her recent inaugural address, titled ‘Moving the goal post for the care of neonates for a better future’. During the lecture, which was delivered at UP’s Senate Hall, Maree emphasised the need for neonatal care to evolve and focus on nurturing pre-term and critically ill babies not only to survive, but to thrive. She also reflected on her journey from paediatric nurse to neonatal care specialist, sharing how her expertise and passion for neonatal intensive care grew alongside an understanding that nature alone doesn’t define a child’s future. “We…

A woman who believes her husband abandoned her and their children with no support, should lose everything lose everything during a divorce settlement. According to court papers, the husband disappeared sometime in March 2023. The couple have been married in community of property since July 2007. Following the husband’s disappearance, the wife sought relief at the Gauteng High Court, Johannesburg, where she filed for divorce and wanted an order of forfeiture of patrimonial benefits against the husband. She also wanted to be awarded primary custody of the children. To further support her application, she said the husband absconded from the common home and left her to fend for herself and three minor children. Given the circumstances, she said the husband would be unduly benefiting if he did not forfeit his…

With a time of 3.2 seconds from 0-100 km/h and the kind of linear, never-ending acceleration that can come only from a full electric vehicle, the halo model of the MG car range, the Cyberster, is as good to look at as its performance – and is the only sports car currently with electrically operated scissor doors and retractable top. The MG brand – celebrating its centenary this year – is returning to South Africa. Around 30 dealers have already been lined up in anticipation of the formal launch, expected towards the end of January next year. While the Cyberster is electric, the model range for South Africa will encompass internal combustion engine and hybrid variants, with two SUVs leading the charge and, according to Sales Director for MG South…

In a stunning comeback, Donald Trump has reclaimed the White House, toppling every force and every opponent to become the 47th president of the United States. This wasn’t a simple victory; it was a powerful rejection of the Democratic Party’s deep involvement in global conflicts and a decisive blow to the political machinery backing Trump’s opponent. For President Cyril Ramaphosa, Trump’s victory could spell disaster, threatening to dismantle the power structure he has carefully cultivated with America’s wealthiest elites. Biden and Ramaphosa: partnership of power and privilege Under Joe Biden, Ramaphosa had direct access to the heart of American power, thanks to a close alliance with South Africa’s most influential families, including the Menells and the Oppenheimers. Biden’s chief of staff, married to Mary Menell, provided a gateway linking the…

In a significant boost for South African football, Premier Soccer League chairman Irvin Khoza announced yesterday that the winners of the Premiership title will receive a staggering R20 million in prize money at the end of the season. This increase marks a notable jump from the R15 million awarded to last season’s champions, Mamelodi Sundowns, underlining the PSL’s and the new sponsor’s commitment to enhancing the competitive landscape of South African football. The announcement was made during a press conference at the PSL offices in Parktown, Johannesburg. “Today we will announce the prize money for the winner only,” he stated clearly, setting the stage for what many are calling a groundbreaking moment in the history of the league. While the hefty prize money was the focal point of the announcement,…

André Esterhuizen understands the fickle nature of rugby. Earlier this year, the 30-year-old centre received a red card and a subsequent four-match suspension after making head contact with Jose Lima of Portugal. Initially adjudged to be a yellow card, the incident was upgraded to the more severe punishment after a bunker review. There was some debate at the time as to whether it warranted such a harsh penalty, but regardless of the outcome, Esterhuizen found himself grappling with the dichotomy of reaching a great high, only for it to come crashing down around him just as quickly. It required the hard-running midfielder to pull himself up from the bootstraps by returning to the Sharks to make himself eligible for national selection again. It is arguably that mentality that Bok coach…