Table of contents for 2026-02-21 in Saturday Star

WHILE Gauteng saw decreases in several major crime categories this quarter, including murders and contact crimes, certain serious offences such as attempted murder and cash-in-transit heists remain on the rise. Acting Police Minister Professor Firoz Cachalia briefed the media yesterday on the release of the third-quarter crime statistics, covering the period from October 1 to December 31, 2025. The country’s murder figures fell by 8.7%, while overall violent crime declined by 6.7% during the same period. Of the 30 precincts with the highest murder rates, only 15 recorded decreases. “Most violent crime categories, including murder, rape and robbery, as well as most property-related crimes such as theft and burglary, continued to decrease, but remain at unacceptably high levels,” he said. Gauteng, the country’s economic hub, also recorded increases in arson,…

As late former Zimbabwean president Robert Gabriel Mugabe's youngest son Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe prepares to appear in court on charges of attempted murder, renewed attention has turned to his family’s previous legal controversy in South Africa. Nearly nine years ago, his mother, Grace Mugabe, was at the centre of one of the most politically charged legal disputes involving a foreign dignitary in democratic South Africa. In August 2017, IOL reported that Chatunga and his older brother, Robert Mugabe Jr, were in Johannesburg when an alleged altercation involving acquaintances escalated into a high-profile assault case against Grace Mugabe. South African model Gabriella Engels alleged that she was assaulted at a luxury hotel in Sandton. IOL reported at the time that Engels claimed she was struck with an extension cord during a…

In a renewed effort to expand educational access and deepen community impact in the Western Cape, Survé Philanthropies has strengthened its partnership with the Ansaaru Rahman Educational Center in Seawinds, Retreat. The collaboration signals a shared commitment to holistic education that blends academic support, ethical grounding, and active community engagement. The Center is a community-based madressa serving young people across Seawinds, Lavender Hill, Hillview, St Montague Village, and Steenberg. It has built a reputation for offering an afternoon madressa programme that balances religious instruction with community service. Its initiatives, including Ramadaan workshops and the Qur’an Intensive programme, foster personal growth and social responsibility among pupils. For Survé Philanthropies, education remains a cornerstone of its mission to uplift marginalised communities across South Africa through bursaries, mentorship, and youth development…

Nearly five million young South Africans could fall out of the country’s economic system this February as universities reopen, job opportunities tighten and many school-leavers find themselves with no clear pathway forward. Tiyani Mohlaba, the chief operations officer of the Afrika Tikkun Foundation, said the transition period after matric is when many young people become disconnected from education, training and employment. “Aspiring matriculants, recent graduates, and capable young talent across the nation will realise there is no pathway forward: no university acceptance, no job offer, no internship, no plan. Just the awareness that they have become a staggering statistic,” he said. Youth unemployment among 15 – to 24-year-olds stood at 62.4% in the first quarter of 2025, according to Statistics South Africa. Mohlaba said February marks the point at which…

THE Rotary Club of Kimberley recently visited Pescodia High School to introduce learners to the values and opportunities offered by Rotary and its youth programme, Interact. Members of the Rotary Club of Kimberley, joined by Interactors from Northern Cape High School and Debbie Smit, were warmly welcomed by Mrs Gwen Feeder, the Deputy Principal of Pescodia High School. The visit formed part of Rotary’s ongoing efforts to nurture leadership and a spirit of service among young people in the community. Mrs Daubermann, the president of the club, presented an informative overview of Rotary and its global impact. She explained that Rotary is a service organisation guided by its well-known motto, Service Above Self. According to Mrs Daubermann, committing oneself to a service organisation reflects the essence of true leadership, as…

A Kempton Park man has stepped forward to claim a Lotto Plus 1 jackpot exceeding R13 million, following a modest R10 ticket purchase. The ticket was manually selected and bought at a local spaza shop while the winner was travelling home to Pretoria. He discovered on Sunday that his numbers had come up, with three of them forming part of his regular selection. National Lottery operator Ithuba confirmed the claim in a statement, describing the win as a moment driven by instinct. According to the operator, the man felt compelled to buy a ticket that Saturday - a decision he said has now transformed his life. Despite becoming an overnight multi-millionaire, the winner indicated he has no plans to resign from his job. He told Ithuba he believes in remaining…

The South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg has dismissed an application for summary judgment brought by Absa Bank Limited against a customer in a dispute over a financed vehicle, ruling that the car owner raised honest defence that must proceed to trial. The matter concerns a 2018 Mazda 3 1.6 Dynamic financed under a written instalment sale agreement concluded in February 2021. Absa sought confirmation of the cancellation of the agreement and the return of the vehicle, alternatively that the sheriff attach and return it, along with ancillary relief. Absa argued that Thulani Mbucane fell into arrears on his monthly instalments and was in breach of the agreement. As of November 2023, the bank claimed he owed over R16 600. The bank subsequently cancelled the agreement, accelerated the outstanding balance…

The pockmarked earth on Johannes- burg’s eastern fringe, until last week a humble cattle kraal ringed with barbed wire, now stands as the unlikely centre of South Africa’s latest gold fever. Dozens of fortune-seekers have flocked to the township of Springs, some 50km east of the city, scouring the dirt for gold. The scene echoes the rush that built Johannesburg, the country’s financial capital, at the turn of the 20th century. The diggers, armed with pickaxes, arrived almost overnight. “They spread like a virus,” security guard Princess Thoko Mlangeni, 33, told AFP outside her tin‑shack home overlooking the field, recalling how they first appeared on February 8. The sudden invasion of Springs reflects a wider frenzy, as gold prices have surged past $5 000 (R80 850) an ounce this…

Through targeted education and skills development initiatives, as businesses our aim should be to create lasting social impact and inclusive economic growth, ensuring that the benefits of mining extend far beyond the extraction of resources. A commitment to responsible and ethical practices in the mining sector, underpinned by robust Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations, should drive our efforts. The Imperative of Responsible and Ethical Practices Mining carries with it the responsibility to operate sustainably and ethically in terms of all the suppliers it engages with. The sector’s footprint on local communities and the environment necessitates a conscientious approach to ESG principles that prioritise the well-being of local communities. The Power of Education and Skills Development By equipping local residents with the necessary skills and knowledge, we enable them to…

iCAUR has confirmed that it will enter the South African market with two models, followed by its flagship V27 SUV within the next 18 months. The Chery sub-brand will launch with the V23 and 03T, both scheduled to arrive in the second quarter, while the larger V27 is expected to follow once the brand has established its dealer and aftersales footprint. The company plans to open with an initial network of 20 dealerships. Compact and electric V23 The iCAUR V23 will be the brand’s entry point into South Africa. It is a full battery-electric vehicle aimed at buyers looking for a compact, ruggedly styled SUV with everyday usability. The V23 uses a retro-inspired design with upright proportions, drawing visual cues from traditional off-roaders rather than urban crossovers. It will be…

US President Donald Trump trashes so many norms that it’s easy to overlook how outlandish some of his actions are. Take his habit of formally endorsing candidates in other countries’ elections. Previous presidents occasionally made their preferences plain, often to their subsequent regret. Bill Clinton was supportive of Boris Yeltsin in Russia’s 1996 election and Barack Obama was critical of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel’s 2015 election. But seldom, if ever, have presidents interjected themselves as brazenly as Trump has done in foreign politics. Earlier this month, Trump offered his “complete and total endorsement” to both Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi (“a strong, powerful and wise leader”) and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, also “a truly strong and powerful leader” (but perhaps not wise?). Conversely, he has demanded…

Last Friday evening, the Cape Town International Convention Centre shimmered with anticipation as the investment industry gathered to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Raging Bull Awards. Hosted by Personal Finance and Business Report, the ceremony once again reminded us why these awards are regarded as the “Oscars” of the collective investment schemes industry. Guiding the evening with warmth and professionalism was Lance Witten, seasoned media leader and editor of iol.co.za. As MC, his presence brought energy and gravitas to the stage, ensuring the ceremony flowed seamlessly and that every winner’s moment in the spotlight was celebrated with flair. As co-ordiator of Personal Finance, I felt immense pride watching the country’s leading asset managers and funds recognised for their consistency, innovation, and resilience. The data underpinning the awards, meticulously compiled…

Sanlam’s 2025 Financial Confidence Index reveals that only 33% of South Africans say they don’t feel scared or self-conscious talking about money. This means almost two-thirds still find “money talk” awkward or taboo. With February celebrating the month of love, the conversation around how couples communicate about money feels especially relevant. In that context, when couples fight about money, they’re rarely arguing about rands and cents alone. They’re dealing with past experiences, unspoken expectations, and often, entirely different Money Personalities: the deeply ingrained ways each partner thinks and feels about money. Sanlam identifies seven distinct Money Personalities – the Prepared Protector, High-Stakes Achiever, Adventurous Enthusiast, Calculated Planner, Relaxed Planner, Spontaneous Buyer, and Generous Guardian – each reflecting a unique relationship with money. Financial advisers, this is where the job quietly…

The timing of the announcement of JP Pietersen as head coach of the Sharks has raised eyebrows because, instead of waiting until later in the season, it arrived on the eve of two very tough visits to the Highveld for the Durbanites, starting today against the Lions at Ellis Park, followed by a trip up the road to the Bulls in Pretoria. That is quite some baptism for Pietersen, who no longer has the free pass of being the “interim” coach plus this fortnight he is bereft of his resting Springboks. No inspirational captain in Andre Esterhuizen, no lethal attacker in Ethan Hooker, scrum spearhead Ox Nche is absent, as is Siya Kolisi, and so on. The team Pietersen has picked, in fact, is similar to the teams John Plumtree…

There will be some bruising battles and exciting runners on display when the Lions and Sharks restart the United Rugby Championship in Johannesburg today. While the visitors will rock up to Ellis Park (2pm kick-off) with a weakened squad, missing a host of their Springboks due to resting protocols, the home team won’t be bothered. They know the task that lies ahead and will look for a momentum-boosting victory. We look at five positional battles that could shape the game. The war at the scrum Lions stalwart Asenathi Ntlabakanye will be licking his lips at the prospect of facing youngster Phatu Ganyane, although he probably would’ve fancied a bite at Ox Nché. However, Ganyane is no lightweight, despite his youth, and has shown that he can step up when…

James Vowles might just adopt Ferrari’s radical rear-wing concept for the FW48, after admitting the design caught his team’s attention during pre-season testing in Bahrain. The Williams team principal conceded that the rotating rear wing seen on Ferrari’s new challenger was not something Grove had pursued in its original concept phase. But after footage of the system went viral, it quickly became the talk of the paddock. “It was not on our radar,” Vowles admitted when asked about the design. “It is interesting. There are positives and negatives to it.” He added that in modern Formula One, innovations are dissected almost instantly. “Within 24 hours, you’ll know whether it’s something that genuinely adds performance or whether it’s just visually different,” he explained. “We’ll go through the data like everyone else.”…

Pakistan and New Zealand will clash in Colombo today as the second Super 8s phase of the T20 World Cup kicks off without former champions Australia, who shockingly failed to make it out of their group. Instead, surprise packages Zimbabwe — who did not even qualify in 2024 — topped Group B after a stunning unbeaten campaign where they not only beat Australia, but also co-hosts Sri Lanka. An injury-depleted Australia endured a chaotic campaign and failed to make the second phase of the T20 World Cup for the first time since 2009. Australia's acerbic media did not hold back in its criticism, citing selection "stuff-ups" and "shambolic" preparations — including a 3-0 pre-tournament series loss in Pakistan — for the embarrassment. Australia coach Andrew McDonald admitted his players were…

The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) has stepped into the fray concerning the escalating club status dispute between Marumo Gallants and Moroka Swallows. The union is urging immediate measures to safeguard the interests of players and technical staff caught in the turmoil. With the uncertainty surrounding club ownership and financial obligations hanging overhead, SAFPU’s intervention underscores the critical need for stability in professional football. Earlier this week, a storm brewed as Gallants reportedly received court papers from Swallows, who are seeking to annul the sale agreement of their Betway Premiership status. Having acquired the top-flight status for the 2024/25 season, Gallants now face allegations that the financial obligations tied to the transaction remain unmet. In their statement, SAFPU emphasised that while legal and contractual matters unfold, the players must…

Arsenal must banish their untimely bout of title-race anxiety as the wobbling Premier League leaders head to Tottenham for the North London derby. Manchester City can pile pressure on the Gunners with a win against Newcastle, while Michael Carrick heads to Everton aiming to bolster his bid to become Manchester United’s permanent manager. Here’s a look at three talking points ahead of this weekend’s action. Saka expects Arsenal to hit back Defiant Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka is adamant his side will eventually “get over the line” and end their trophy drought. Mikel Arteta’s men are in danger of blowing a commanding position in the title race after successive draws against Brentford and Wolves left them with just two wins in their last seven league matches. The Gunners squandered…

The world is buzzing with excitement as travel resumes and tourism flourishes once again. With South Africa welcoming a record-breaking 10.48 million international tourists last year – a remarkable 17.6% increase compared to 2024 – it's clear that wanderlust is alive and well. Euromonitor's Top 100 City Destinations Index has revealed the most visited cities, showcasing how travel patterns are evolving and shifting across regions. Affordable high-end luxury – Bangkok: This premier global tourist destination uniquely blends high- energy city life with deeply rooted traditional culture. Bangkok offers world-class, affordable street food, intricate temples like Wat Arun and bustling shopping experiences, including the massive Chatuchak Market. In 2025, Bangkok welcomed 30.3 million visitors, making it the world’s most visited destination. Visitors flock to Bangkok for its unparalleled sensory experiences and…

Body contouring procedures like liposuction and tummy tucks are more visible than ever, driven by social media transformations that often focus on dramatic results while leaving out the medical reality behind them. To better understand what patients need to know, IOL spoke to Professor Chrysis Sofianos, a leading aesthetic surgeon, about what truly happens before, during, and long after these procedures. His message is clear. Surgery is not the shortcut many people believe it to be. These are major surgical procedures, not quick fixes One of the biggest misconceptions is that body contouring surgery offers instant results with minimal effort. In reality, these are major medical procedures that require proper planning, clearance and recovery. “Surgery is not the endpoint. It is the beginning of a recovery journey,” he explains. Patients…

Four South African men who returned from the Russia-Ukraine conflict on Wednesday spent their first day back in the country providing statements to police and surrendering their cellphones as part of an ongoing investigation. According to their families, the men are being accommodated at a secure location in Johannesburg. Their phones were confiscated upon arrival, a move relatives believe forms part of a probe into how the group was recruited and transported to the war zone. The men had been in the conflict for several months. They are among 17 South Africans believed to have travelled to Russia, with more expected to return in the coming days. One of the group, who sustained severe injuries, will remain in Russia for further medical treatment. He is reportedly set to receive a…

Municipal workers in the City of Tshwane are set to get a boost in their pockets after the metro agreed to pay out R1.088 billion in backdated salaries, bringing an end to a long-running dispute over a 3.5% wage increase dating back to 2021. The payment follows years of legal and political wrangling after the previous administration, led by former mayor Cilliers Brink, applied for exemption from the increase on the grounds of financial distress. The matter was ultimately referred back to the bargaining council, which ruled in favour of workers. Tshwane Mayor Nasiphi Moya said the city had made settling the dispute a priority and opted not to pursue further litigation. She said the agreement, reached with labour unions, will see workers paid in phases over three years. "Today,…

Here’s what we know so far about the shooting involving the son of former Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe, which took place on Thursday, at an upmarket residence in Hyde Park, Johannesburg: What happened? ● A gardener employed at the residence was shot and is reportedly in critical condition in the hospital. ● A cartridge has been recovered, but the firearm allegedly used in the shooting has not yet been found. Where did the incident happen? ● The shooting took place at a luxury home in Hyde Park, Johannesburg. ● The property is reported to be the residence of Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe, son of former Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe. Who is in custody? ● Two men, aged 33 and 24, have been taken in for questioning. ● They…

“I think there’s a dog drowning in the pond!” she shouted. Hugh, 18, rushed to a window and saw a dog struggling to stay afloat on the partially frozen pond behind their home in Chesapeake, Virginia. The top of the dog’s head was covered in ice as he flailed in the pond, which is about 20 feet deep. Hugh, a senior at Grassfield High School, threw on a jacket and shoes, and ran outside. Hugh grabbed a kayak from his backyard and sprinted to the pond, which is about 200m long and 61m wide, he said. His mother handed him a paddle as he headed into the frigid water. “I had to rush out into the water,” he said. “I was going really fast.” The temperature that afternoon, this past…

George Washington’s chin is crumbling. His cheeks are streaked with sooty grime. His blackened nose is peeling, an apparent victim of frostbite and sunburn. Still, America’s first leader looks nicer than usual. “Just beautiful,” observed Cesia Rodriguez, a 32-year-old massage therapist gazing up at the Founding Father – or what remained of him. She’d pulled on rain boots, driven about an hour and trudged through the mud of what her tour guide called “an industrial dump” early on Satur- day with dozens of other tourists to see “The Presidents Heads,” a private collection of every ex-POTUS’s sculpted likeness from Washington to George W Bush. They’re arranged in haphazard rows, with Andrew Jackson occupying a prime front spot simply because the owner likes his hair. The vibe is Stonehenge-meets-The Walking…

THE SISTER Schools Programme has been instrumental in keeping young people in school and on a path towards further education in Noupoort. The initiative supports learners, helps remove barriers to learning and enhances learner outcomes. Implemented across the Pixley ka Seme District, the programme has positioned the district among the most improved nationally. In Noupoort, Noupoort Combined School recorded a 95% matric pass rate and Enoch Mthetho High School achieved a 100% pass rate in 2025. "The Sister Schools Programme played a decisive role in our learners’ success. By providing meals, transport and learning materials, key barriers such as hunger and access were removed, allowing our learners to attend extra lessons consistently and focus fully on their studies. This support boosted morale and motivation, and directly contributed to Enoch Mthetho…

A 13-year-old girl from Eastridge, Roché Cupido, has been appointed as a young commissioner at Lentegeur Police Station, stepping into a leadership role aimed at inspiring confidence, supporting vulnerable girls, and addressing social challenges in her community. The Grade 8 pupil at Princeton High School will serve as a youth voice on issues affecting young people. The role places her at the forefront of community engagement and youth advocacy. Roché says she hopes to use her platform to uplift and motivate her peers while advocating for important social causes. “Personally, this is a significant achievement for me. I am honoured to be challenged and to make an effort to help, especially young people who are struggling with many issues,” she said. Her responsibilities will include attending community meetings and working…

Youth unemployment in South Africa remained at a critical 43.8% in the fourth quarter of 2025, with a sharp rise in discouraged young job-seekers underscoring the deepening crisis in the labour market. The latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) shows that while social grants such as the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) provide essential income support, they are not sufficient to tackle the country’s structural employment challenges. The survey reported that overall employment increased by 44,000 to 17.1 million. However, the number of discouraged work-seekers, those who have stopped actively looking for work, jumped by 233 000 to 3.7 million. At the same time, 172 000 fewer South Africans were actively searching for jobs, suggesting growing disengagement, particularly among youth entering the labour market for…

While some jobs in South Africa are relatively safe, others expose workers to significant danger. Recent claims data shows mining, manufacturing, and construction among the industries with the highest workplace incidents. Online casino Playcasino.com analysed compensation claims data to identify what it described as South Africa’s most dangerous jobs and industries. The website said it reviewed publicly available figures from South Africa’s work-injury compensation system, including Compensation Fund reporting and statistics from Rand Mutual Assurance (mining and metals) and Federated Employers Mutual (construction). Mining and metals Playcasino.com ranked Mining and Metals first, citing 24 568 claims recorded in 2024 within the combined insurance category covering those sectors. The website said the same category recorded 298 800 claims between 2015 and 2024, averaging nearly 29 880 claims per year. This represents…

Toyota South Africa will import a limited number of its new GR GT flagship, a hybrid V8 supercar engineered from the outset as a road-legal race machine and set to redefine what Gazoo Racing represents locally. Toyota says it has a provisional allocation, but that it’s subject to final production allocation. Speaking about the car’s arrival next year at the recent State of the Motoring Industry indaba, Leon Theron, senior vice president for sales and marketing at Toyota South Africa Motors, said that it’s not a conventional halo model, but something far more specialised. “The idea is that customers buying a R7 million to R8 million car definitely want a different experience,” Theron explained. “You can’t have a normal salesman at a dealer selling and delivering this car. This car…

Mitsubishi Motors South Africa has introduced the Outlander Edition 25, a limited-run version of its seven-seater SUV, marking 25 years since the model’s global debut. Launched in 2001 under the Airtrek name, the Outlander evolved into Mitsubishi’s core SUV offering. Edition 25 continues with the same platform and drivetrain as the current generation, while adding specific styling and interior changes. Only 10 units of the Outlander Edition 25 will be sold in South Africa. Exterior changes The Dynamic Shield front grille receives revised finishes, while the lower skid guard adopts a more pronounced three-dimensional design. At the back, smoked tail lamp lenses contrast with the red lighting elements, and the rear skid plate has also been redesigned. The lower bumper sections and pillar trims are finished in black, while it…

Family members were pitted against each other in a recent Johannesburg High Court case that highlighted just how contentious a will can become. The Modises took each other on legally, with Nehemia Modise arguing that the last will and testament of his late mother, Matsatsi Khutsoane, be declared invalid. There have been many other cases, some no doubt similar to the Modise battle, and some that are exceptionally laughable. But, even bizarre requirements have to be honoured – as long as they are legal and properly executed – because there is freedom of testation in South African law. The Modises’ legal battle extends back to 2012, when Khutsoane died and left her property to her grandchildren, namely Thabang Modise, Nthabiseng Modise, Karabo Modise and Rifilwe Modise. Then, Rifilwe Modise (who…

There was a time when India poured scorn on the T20 game. They thought it all rather silly and even sent a makeshift team to the inaugural T20 World Cup in South Africa almost 20 years ago now. But as Mother Cricket decreed, they would go on to win the whole darn thing, unearthing an all-time great captain in MS Dhoni in the process, and setting in a wind of change through the IPL that would lay the foundation for their status as a modern-day global superpower. The fruit of that labour is now being showcased in full HD colour at this T20 World Cup. India are the defending T20 World Cup champions, having won the silver trophy again two years ago in Barbados, boast a team that is loaded…

France coach Fabien Galthie has recalled second-row hulks Thibaud Flament and Emmanuel Meafou for today’s Six Nations clash against Italy. Galthie had lined up Mickael Guillard and Charles Ollivon in the second row for France’s first two tournament matches — thumping victories against Ireland and Wales — but has opted for a bit more bulk against the Azzurri’s hefty pack. Both Guillard and Ollivon, who will start on the bench, play more commonly in the back row rather than the engine room and are more mobile than Flament and Meafou, who play together for club side Toulouse. “In the pack, there are players who play together in their clubs,” said Galthie, in reference to six of the eight forwards playing for Toulouse. “The scrum is subtle; it’s about feelings, connections…

South African 10km record holder Glenrose Xaba believes the fastest women’s field ever assembled on African soil could provide the perfect stage for a national breakthrough at the Absa Run Your City Gqeberha 10K next Sunday, 1 March. The Boxer Athletics Club star heads into the opening leg of the 2026 Absa Run Your City Series with renewed energy after a demanding stretch that included her second career marathon in December and national colours at the World Cross Country Championships in the US in January. While 2025 delivered three podium finishes in the series – including two victories – it also required careful management at the start of this year. “The body is feeling good,” Xaba said this week. “After the World Cross Country Championships, the focus was on proper…

The sentiment that ‘money can’t buy you success’ is often challenged by Masandawana — the Mamelodi Sundowns faithful — whose happiness index at the moment is proudly sponsored by the club’s deep pockets. Sundowns are the most well-resourced in the PSL, thanks to the deep pockets of club president Patrice Motsepe, which has allowed them to somewhat live up to their emblem of “the sky is the limit” on the local front. With a blend of some of the finest talent money can buy — both locally and abroad — coupled with elite football minds, Sundowns continue to rule the domestic landscape. They are now chasing an unprecedented ninth consecutive league title. While the last seven titles have come under the tactical geniuses of the “sons of the soil”, the…

For all their domination of the domestic championship, Mamelodi Sundowns’ record in local knockout competitions has not provided much to write home about. League champions a record seven times in a row, the Brazilians are revered as the kings of South African football. But their failure to win knockout competitions during that period has somewhat served to undermine their dominance. It is a status quo Miguel Cardoso and his men are hard-pressed to change, particularly now with the league title, for once, not guaranteed. The task will not be easy, however, with Sundowns’ path to Nedbank Cup glory requiring them to overcome a difficult opponent in the form of TS Galaxy, whom they meet in this afternoon’s Last 16 round in KwaMhlanga. Champions of the inaugural Nedbank Cup way back…

If you are looking for the best stargazing in South Africa, you have to leave the glare of the big cities behind. Escaping the bright lights of our urban centres is the only way to see the Milky Way in its full, glittering splendour. From the high plateaus of the Karoo to the red dunes of the north, these five spots offer the clearest views of the cosmos. Sutherland: It’s famous for being the coldest town in South Africa, but it is even better known as the country’s premier astronomical hub. Located in the Northern Cape at a high altitude, the air here is thin, dry and incredibly still. These conditions are so perfect for looking at the stars that it was chosen as the site for the Southern African…

Durban and Johannesburg are facing severe water crises. In Johannesburg, infrastructure collapse has caused nearly 45% of water to be lost before reaching taps. Suburbs like Midrand, Westdene and Parktown have gone from 10 days to over five weeks without water. A recent strike by Johannesburg Water staff slowed repairs further. An Intergovernmental Water War Room now coordinates with Rand Water and national departments to restore supply. In Durban, post-flood damage combined with high temperatures and increased demand has left areas like Springtown and Umhlanga with low pressure or no water. Failing wastewater plants, algae in treatment works and pipeline upgrades have also worsened the situation. Residents are learning to adapt to prolonged outages, including finding ways to cook when taps run dry. Cooking without a steady water supply requires…

US President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that he is ordering federal agencies to begin “identifying and releasing” government files related to UFOs and aliens, a move sought for decades by some Americans. “Based on the tremendous interest shown, I will be directing the Secretary of War, and other relevant Departments and Agencies, to begin the process of identifying and releasing Government files related to alien and extraterrestrial life, unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), and unidentified flying objects (UFOs),” Trump posted on his Truth Social platform. While he did not specify whether classified documents would be released to the public, Trump added that the files should include “any and all other information connected to these highly complex, but extremely interesting and important, matters.” Earlier in the day, the Republican president claimed…

A police officer has been praised for his sterling work in apprehending a Limpopo man who terrorised and robbed women at knifepoint after waiting for opportune moments to sneak into their vehicles. The work carried out by Sergeant Karabo Monyeki of the Modimolle Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit ensured the successful conviction and sentencing of Satiel Ramadikela Molobi for his crimes. Molobi was sentenced to an effective 25 years’ direct imprisonment by the Modimolle Regional Court this week after being convicted on two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances, two counts of kidnapping, and one count of theft out of a motor vehicle. It emerged that Molobi specifically targeted women, and the incidents occurred in February 2024. Limpopo provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba confirmed the court outcome. “He was sentenced…

Suspended SAPS Deputy Commissioner, Lt-Gen. Shadrack Sibiya, has admitted that he took control of all the crucial PKTT dockets, including those on the court roll, and allowed them to gather dust in his office, uninvestigated for three months. Testifying at the Madlanga Commission yesterday, Sibiya conceded to using an unauthorised implementation plan to disband the elite unit - contradicting the approved strategy. He also admitted that he had deviated from the approved action plan for the disbandment of the Provincial and National Task Team (PKTT), a specialised crime-fighting unit. He was supposed to ensure that ongoing cases were processed smoothly, but instead, he left the court dockets in limbo. Sibiya explained that he "inspected" the 121 PKTT dockets, but he acknowledged that no investigations were conducted on these critical cases…

The Smithsonian’s National Zoo has announced that its less than 2-week-old female Asian elephant has been named Linh Mai, Vietnamese for “spirit blossom”. The 140kg calf was the first elephant born at the zoo in almost 25 years and only the third elephant birth in the zoo’s 136-year history. The calf’s parents are 12-year-old mother Nhi Linh and 44-year-old father Spike. Linh Mai refers to a blossom associated with the Lunar New Year. Zoo fans were invited to vote for their favourite name by making a donation of $5 (R80) or more on the zoo’s website. Linh Mai won, with donations of $22 885, the zoo said in a statement. The total raised was $58 892. All funds raised will support the zoo’s Asian elephant care and conservation programme,…

In a significant breakthrough for marine science, the South African Environmental Observation Network (NRF-SAEON) and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) have unveiled the formal description of a new sponge species, Latrunculia atkinsonae (Latrunculia). This new species has been named in honour of Dr Lara Atkinson, pictured, a leading Biodiversity Scientist at the NRF-SAEON Egagasini Node. The description is part of a broader analysis, published last month in the Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom, which details four new sponge species previously unknown to science and native to the Namaqua eco-region. The study also recognised the contributions of other prominent figures in marine biology, with additional newly discovered species named after Professor Mark J Gibbons from the University of the Western Cape, and…

Heavy schoolbags packed with textbooks may soon be a thing of the past for pupils at Siphamandla Secondary School in Khayelitsha, after more than R1 million worth of AI-powered tablets were distributed to pupils on Monday, February 16. iOCO Technology Group handed out Omang e-learning tablets to Grade 11 and 12 pupils enrolled in Mathematics and Physical Science, as part of a major digital education drive at the school. The personalised tablets are designed to support learning in low-connectivity environments and come with 2GB of preloaded monthly data as well as offline access to learning materials. Through the Odin system installed on the Omang devices, pupils can access personalised lessons, curated digital content, and AI-supported tools aimed at improving academic performance and preparing them for tertiary education and the world…

In a stirring return to the screen, two-time Safta-nominated presenter Chanley Wong has rejoined the world of broadcasting as she takes her place on S3’s Expresso Morning Show. After a seven-year hiatus from traditional television, Wong made her debut on Tuesday, delivering live broadcasts from the show’s Johannesburg studio alongside co-host Zanele Potelwa. Wong’s re-entry into television not only reinforces Expresso’s Johannesburg footprint but also exemplifies the show’s evolution in delivering feel-good and authentically South African storytelling. For both Wong and her loyal followers, this moment is not merely professional, it’s deeply personal. “Returning to television after seven years feels surreal but right,” Wong said. “Over that time, I’ve grown, learnt, and explored other platforms, and now I get to bring all of that experience back to TV. It’s humb-…

Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina has approved an urgent application by Rand Water to abstract additional water from the Integrated Vaal River System in a bid to stabilise struggling municipal reservoirs across Gauteng. The intervention follows major disruptions between January 27 and February 1, 2026, when electro-mechanical failures at Rand Water’s Palmiet and Zuikerbosch pump stations, as well as a major pipe burst at the Klipfontein reservoir, caused a sharp drop in treated water supply to municipalities. Although Rand Water restored its full production of 5 billion litres per day by February 4, the temporary reduction severely depleted municipal storage reservoirs, leaving many high-lying areas without water. Low-lying areas were largely unaffected. A heatwave in early February worsened the situation by driving up consumption in areas still receiving supply,…

LIGHTS, camera, no action! South Africa’s film and television industry is on pause, with creatives out of pocket as they wait to hear what Canal Plus intends after acquiring MultiChoice last year. With microphones off and scripts silent, insiders warn that without a clear signal from the broadcaster, combined with ongoing Film Incentive delays, the local industry could tank, with the future of local languages, content and talent at risk. Jade Gezane, General Secretary of the Independent Producers Organisation (IPO), says prolonged uncertainty is eroding investor confidence and diminishing South Africa’s competitiveness as a production destination of choice. “Without confirmed approval, producers cannot close financing, access bank funding, or move projects into production, even if broadcaster contracts are in place. This leads to postponements, cancellations, and serious cash-flow strain,…

WHILE rescue operations continue for the five mineworkers trapped underground at Ekapa Minerals’ Joint Shaft Mine in Kimberley, the Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, said that, given the conditions of the mud rush, the workers were “presumed dead”. Mantashe, along with a delegation including Northern Cape Premier Dr Zamani Saul and Sol Plaatje executive mayor Martha Bartlett, conducted an underground inspection of the mine yesterday. Mantashe pointed out that the operation would take “longer than expected” due to rising water levels inside the mine. “If you come back after the water is pumped out, it is high again the following day. We can sugarcoat it, but it is quite difficult as the water is deep and the situation is complex. The mining company is focused on the…

Whether it’s hauling garden refuse, loading a son’s university residence things, heading off on holiday or tackling a cross-country drive, our long-term Ford Ranger XLT has become the go-to vehicle of choice. It’s one of the reasons why bakkies are such a familiar part of South African life. They are no longer just a workhorse but have evolved into everyday family transport and long-distance tourers. Our Iconic Silver Ford Ranger XLT 4x4 double cab is positioned as the mid-spec offering in the Ranger line-up, striking a balance between equipment, capability and price. At R767 000, it sits below the Wildtrak and Platinum models, but includes the essentials most buyers actually use. Real-world driving My colleague Verna van Diemen recently put the Ranger XLT to a 1 400km real-world test, driving…

South Africa, celebrated for its diverse cultures and rich heritage, continues to face one of the highest incidences of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the world. In KwaZulu-Natal alone, the centre for Community Impact’s 2023 report indicates that over a third of the women have experienced some form of violence, from verbal abuse to physical and sexual assault. Beyond the numbers lies the lived experience of pain, fear and social marginalisation. Ubuntu umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu or “I am because we are” offers an indigenous, culturally resonant framework that could be drawn upon to address the challenge of GBV. Ubuntu is not merely an abstract philosophy – it is a call to collective moral responsibility. It insists that the well-being of everyone is inseparable from the health of the community, making GBV…

As Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana prepares to take to the podium next Wednesday, South Africans will be waiting to hear about one key aspect in particular: tax. Lance Collop, CA (SA) and Chartered Tax Accountant, says the key question many people want answered is whether taxes will increase. While Godongwana is unlikely to announce a dramatic increase in personal income tax rates, stealth tax will result in increased pressure, even without tax hikes. “The National Budget is where such policy ideals and financial realities meet and often clash,” says Old Mutual Wealth investment strategist, Izak Odendaal. “Spending needs are great, but every additional rand for the police, for instance, must come from somewhere.” Odendaal warns that raising tax rates is not always effective. “Taxpayers can cough up, but given a…

A pension fund has been ordered by the Pension Funds Adjudicator (PFA) to pay a penalty of R5 000 to a member after delays in resolving a dispute over missed monthly pension payments, which the fund attributed to a bank technical error. The complainant, a member of the Motor Industry Provident Fund from July 1997 until his retirement, has been receiving a monthly pension since March 2017. He lodged a complaint after failing to receive his pension from August 2024 to February 2025, despite having provided proof of his bank account details, which he said had already been furnished to the fund. According to the fund, the August 2024 payment was rejected due to a technical error with the member’s bank account. This error resulted in six consecutive missed payments.…

The mega ICC T20 World Cup Super Eights clash between hosts India and South Africa in Ahmedabad on Sunday will be decided during the death overs, according to former Proteas allrounder JP Duminy. The veteran of six T20 World Cups and having featured in two semifinals in 2009 and 2014, believes the two sides are evenly matched, but the Proteas will need to find a way to deal with the pressure at the backend of the innings. “I think the death (overs) is going to be critical for us from a bowling perspective, and then how do we counter them at the back end as well, from a batting perspective. “So, either side, I think the death is going to determine it,” Duminy exclusively told Independent Media. It certainly is…

Orlando Pirates are poised to reclaim their winning form when they host Casric Stars on Saturday at the Orlando Amstel Arena, kicking off at 6 pm. This Nedbank Cup Round of 16 encounter carries significant implications for both sides as they aim to advance in one of the country's most prestigious cup tournaments. For Pirates, the match represents an opportunity not only to bounce back from their recent defeat to Sundowns but also to move closer to adding another piece of silverware to their collection. After experiencing the sting of a 2-1 loss to Mamelodi Sundowns, which snapped their impressive 14-match unbeaten streak across all competitions, Pirates are eager to secure a win and regain momentum on the path to lifting the Nedbank Cup. Ranked among the tournament favourites, Pirates…

The old adage “something old, something new, something borrowed” would appropriately describe JP Pietersen’s approach to rugby coaching. His name, in fact, is borrowed in a sense — his Christian names are Jon-Paul Roger, after the great British Lions fullback JPR Williams, who made a telling impact on JP’s father during the Lions’ 1974 tour. Funnily enough, JPR Williams stayed behind after that Lions tour and spent a season at Kings Park playing for Natal. On a serious note, the new Sharks coach is his own man, but the first to admit that he has been influenced by some of the sport’s best coaches since the day he arrived at the Sharks Academy as a penniless student. The year before, he had played for Mpumalanga Schools, having not long before…

“A Ferrari is more than a machine, it's a statement. It's no longer about just getting from A to B…” This is a recent social media post from Lungi Ngidi as he stands next to his cherry red Italian sports car. It speaks volumes of the confidence the Proteas seam bowler is currently strutting. The 29-year-old is arguably in the form of his life with 23 T20I wickets at an average of 19.6 and economy of 7.55 over the past 12 months. Crucially, eight of those have come at this on-going T20 World Cup, where Ngidi is the Proteas’ leading wicket-taker heading into the Super Eights phase. He has also claimed two Player of the Match awards already. It’s a far cry away from the last T20 World Cup in…

Proteas Women’s wicket-keeper batter Sinalo Jafta, with the Black Day One Day International (ODI) coming up against Pakistan Women in Durban, says the team wants to encourage the women in the country to be brave enough to speak out and seek help. Having won the T20I series against Pakistan 2-1, South Africa are scheduled to play three ODIs against the same outfit. The first match is set to get underway on Sunday in Bloemfontein, with the second scheduled to be staged in Centurion on 25 February, while the third and final match of the series will take place in Durban on 01 March. With the next ODI World Cup a long way away, the main focus of the ODI series is the Black Day ODI in Durban, where the Proteas…

Sasol Banyana Banyana can take a pivotal step towards the COSAFA Women’s Championship quarter-finals with a potential victory against Angola today. After a promising start to their campaign, the South African women’s team is brimming with confidence following their 2-0 win against Malawi in their Group A opener. In what was an exhilarating encounter in Polokwane, captain Sibulele Holweni delivered a standout performance with a second-half goal, complemented by a strike from substitute Bonolo Mokoma. Coach Desiree Ellis has strategically assembled a squad of 38 players, leveraging this regional competition to evaluate emerging talent in preparation for the upcoming CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026, scheduled to take place in Morocco next month. Notably, the squad Ellis fielded featured a younger line-up, with established players such as Refiloe…