Innholdsfortegnelse for 2025-11-29 i Independent on Saturday

Netflix’s Selling the OC continues to sit in that strange reality TV limbo where everyone is beautiful, slightly unbearable and deeply convinced they’re the moment. Another glossy spin-off in the Selling Sunset universe, serving up designer tantrums and suspiciously sculpted bikini bodies. Yawn. That said, I have to give credit where it’s due – the properties still deliver. The homes scattered around Orange County remain the real stars of the show, all sun-drenched glass, infinity pools and “rich people with zero clutter” energy. Watching these agents walk through airy mansions with ocean views is like sipping a fancy iced drink on a hot day. Refreshing, slightly indulgent, and easily the best part of the series. Unfortunately, we’re still stuck with a cast full of what can only be described as…

FIVE years ago, Shiven Bodasing knew nothing about figure skating. Today, he is preparing to take on former Olympians and world champions in the ISU Adult Figure Skating Championships in Germany. Bodasing says he initially started figure skating as a way to decompress from the stress related to his job at the SPCA, where he served as an inspector and then manager. “In the beginning, it was an escape from the SPCA because the job can be very draining. I think figure skating was a good balance, a little bit more self-rewarding,” he says. At the time, he had no idea that one day he would become the highest technical scoring adult national figure skating champion in South Africa. “I was walking in the Northgate Mall in Johannesburg where there…

You could be fined, have your car impounded or face needless court appearances if you haven’t yet switched to KwaZulu-Natal’s new number plate system with the deadline for registration tomorrow. Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma stressed the urgency for the remaining 19 018 motorists to make the switch. Missing the deadline could result in serious consequences, such as fines and major penalties from regulatory authorities. This comes after the department gave motorists a two-year grace period, after the system was introduced in December 2023, to migrate to the new provincial system (two letters, two digits, and two letters followed by ZN). The department reportedly started encouraging vehicle owners to transition voluntarily in March last year, specifically those whose motor vehicle licence discs were due for renewal. Under the…

A stark warning from UNAIDS has illuminated a grave crisis in the global response to HIV, signalling a long-fought battle for public health at risk of unravelling. In its newly released report, Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response, ahead of World AIDS Day 2025, UNAIDS highlights the alarming decline in international funding, with potential repercussions that could resonate through low- and middle-income countries significantly burdened by the epidemic. As the OECD predicts reductions in external health assistance of up to 40% by 2025 compared to 2023 levels, the repercussions are immediate and profound. Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS, articulated the human impact of these statistics. “The funding crisis has exposed the fragility of the progress we fought so hard to achieve.” Behind the numbers are individuals – children missing…

THE recent G20 summit in Johannes- burg, which included a final declaration, transcended the anticipated geopolitical storms. Despite the highly publicised boycott by the US administration, the summit can be deemed a success from South Africa’s perspective, serving as a demonstration of global multilateralism and elevating the country’s status on the world stage. South Africa’s participation in the G20, the premier forum for global economic co-operation, is often framed in purely economic terms. While South Africa’s GDP is not among the top 20 globally, its inclusion is based on a strategic, geopolitical, and economic rationale to ensure the G20’s global legitimacy and diverse perspective. The successful hosting of the summit, and the achievement of a consensus declaration against the backdrop of global division, cemented this rationale. South Africa’s leadership, particularly…

The release of crime statistics paints a familiar and devastating picture: a nation besieged by violence. While marginal declines are noted in some areas, the sheer scale of daily trauma is unacceptable. Sixty-three people were murdered every day, and with 103 women raped daily in the first quarter, our rape and hijacking rates remain obscenely high. This is a profound national crisis. The statistics are particularly chilling during the 16 Days of Activism, as data confirms an increase in gender-based violence (GBV), with schools also becoming sites of violence. The omission of specific statistics on crimes against women and children suggests a deliberate attempt to obscure the true extent of the crisis. These are not merely numbers; they are lives destroyed and a society living in constant fear. Central to…

San Diego’s “Queen of the Zoo” has died. Her name was Gramma, and she was a Galápagos tortoise whose 141 years of existence (give or take) included 20 presidents, two world wars and a pair of pandemics. But to her caretakers at the San Diego Zoo, where she died on Thursday after nearly a century in residence, Gramma was “a sweet and shy tortoise” who enjoyed romaine lettuce and cactus fruit. “She quietly touched the lives of countless people over nearly a century in San Diego as an incredible ambassador for reptile conservation worldwide,” the zoo said. Gramma was an inadvertent witness to periods of rapid change. Cars, computers, the internet and artificial intelligence all emerged during Gramma’s life. Twelve states joined the United States during her lifetime. Born in…

Gold is having a moment in the sun and the billionaire Muthoot clan of India is reaping the benefits. Their family-run firm that’s doled out gold loans for almost nine decades is on a roll as consumers take advantage of surging bullion prices to swap jewellery for short-term cash. The boom has pushed the company’s stock to a record, boosting the Muthoots’ combined fortune above $13 billion, accord- ing to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. “The market is exploding,” said George Alexander Muthoot, 70, the managing director of his eponymous firm and third-generation executive of the business. “Even for rich people, it’s fashionable today to take gold loans.” Muthoot Finance Ltd’s rise speaks to the growing clout of India’s shadow banking sector, which is helping fuel the country’s economic growth.…

South African SUV buyers will soon be even more spoiled for choice, with the all-new Chinese brand Lepas set to launch in early 2026. Although the official brand launch took place on Thursday evening, the company confirmed that the first batch of products will be launched during the first and second quarters of next year. This means there has been a slight delay in rolling out the brand locally, as the L8 and L4 models were originally scheduled to arrive later this year, with the L6 following in 2026. Although Lepas is a completely new brand, it has significant backing, being fully owned by the Chery Group and using the Chinese auto giant’s well-proven parts and technology. The Lepas name is derived from the words “leap” and “passion”, and it…

THE Halifax International Security Forum is an annual gathering of political and military leaders and security experts from democratic countries, with a mission “to strengthen strategic co-operation among the world’s democracies”. That was not hard to do in 2009, when the conference was founded. It has become nearly impossible now that the world’s most powerful democracy has turned into a rogue nation led by a president who is more sympathetic to dictators than democrats. US-Canadian relations have been more strained than at any time since the 19th century after US President Donald Trump imposed heavy tariffs on America’s northern neighbour. US-European relations reached a new crisis point when the Trump administration presented Ukraine with an ultimatum to accept a heavily pro-Russian “peace plan” or risk losing all US support. Various…

Without adequate financial inclusion, South Africans who hope to start businesses and improve their lives – and their communities – will remain constrained. Ofentse Tabane, founder and MD of Randcorp Investments, says that the financial inclusiveness of Africa is not just a moral imperative, it’s an economic necessity. Through formal inclusion, “we’re not just increasing access to financial services, we’re unlocking the potential of our people,” he says. Tabane was the keynote speaker at an event hosted by Personal Finance, which examined how to break barriers and build a financially inclusive South Africa under the theme Breaking Barriers – Building a Financially Inclusive South Africa. “The numbers are here; the studies are here. The World Bank shows that increasing financial inclusion can boost South Africa’s GDP by up to 6%.…

The High Court has recently handed down a decisive judgment in Inhlakanipho Consultants (Pty) Ltd v Commissioner for SARS, offering crucial assurance to taxpayers who have relied on, and continue to rely on, negotiated outcomes with Sars. The Court confirmed that once a settlement agreement is lawfully concluded under the Tax Administration Act, No. 28 of 2011 (“the TAA”), SARS is bound to its terms. Further, Sars cannot, at a later stage, alter its position on the basis of administrative difficulty or internal processes. Dispute background Following a series of VAT assessments and partial objection outcomes, the parties resolved the remaining issues through alternative dispute resolution. A written settlement agreement was signed in 2018, which recorded a final liability of just over R5.9 million. The taxpayer complied fully and tendered…

Proteas fast bowler Nandre Burger told reporters that the camp is filled with excitement following the historic Test series triumph in Guwahati and that the squad is expecting good scores in the upcoming white-ball leg of the tour. South Africa completed a sparkling 408-run victory in the second Test earlier this week, sealing a 2-0 series sweep against India, their first series triumph on Indian soil in 25 years. Tomorrow, the Proteas will switch focus from Test cricket to One-Day cricket as the first of three ODIs is set to get underway in Ranchi. Proteas speedster Burger told reporters yesterday that the camp is filled with excitement ahead of the first ODI. “The mood in the camp is very exciting. Everyone's ready to go in a different format. Obviously, the…

Heading into the Dubai SVNS without the weight of defending a title might actually work in the Springbok Sevens’ favour this year. Unlike last season — when they arrived in the United Arab Emirates as the most successful team in the tournament’s history and with 11 Dubai titles to their name — the Blitzboks won’t have the added pressure of living up to past glory. That pressure seemed to hold them back a year ago, when they struggled to find early rhythm and ultimately couldn’t extend their winning legacy in Dubai. Ironically, that slow start helped spark a turnaround, and a week later they produced a memorable comeback to lift the trophy in Cape Town. This time around, head coach Philip Snyman believes the team is better positioned to make…

The Sharks resume their United Rugby Championship campaign with the Sword of Damocles hanging over the head of their coach, John Plumtree, but the experienced New Zealander says his imperiled future has nothing to do with today’s match against Connacht. Greek mythology and its curse over those in power aside, the defiant Plumtree says he will fight for the Sharks until the end. A month ago, the Sharks’ hierarchy released a statement that Plumtree would end his coaching tenure at the end of the season, even though just five matches of the 16-round season had been played. It is a difficult position for the coach, and he said, “Navigating the large number of Springboks we have, has been challenging, and our recruiting model must change going forward. “My attitude is…

In a year when global athletics continued its renaissance, South Africa’s sprint talisman Akani Simbine walked away from 2025 with something far more valuable than a single medal: perspective. The man who has carried the nation’s hopes in the 100m for nearly a decade reflects on the campaign not through the narrow lens of a single championship result, but through the broader tapestry of a long and demanding season. And in doing so, he reminds us why he remains one of the most respected competitors on the global circuit. For Simbine, the year began promisingly with an indoor medal – a space where South Africans have historically seldom shone. That performance set the tone for what followed: consistent podium finishes on the Diamond League circuit and, ultimately, a world ranking…

If Relebohile Mofokeng’s performance against Chippa United midweek was anything to go by, perhaps we can start murmuring that the jewel of South African football is nearing his best. Mofokeng showed flashes of his old self against the Chilli Boys. He dictated play with his nippy feet and accurate passes. So much so that he was largely credited for the team’s opener, as he cut Chippa’s defence open brilliantly, finding Deon Hotto, who set up Evidence Makgopa. Having watched the game from the box, captivated by his every move and having the pleasure of replays at my fingertips, I was certain he would walk away with the Player of the Match award. But alas, it was his older brother, Hotto, who got the honours — another questionable call from our…

As the summer sun makes its presence felt, it beckons South Africans outdoors. Whether you prefer the thrill of paddling on tranquil waters, the serenity of hiking through lush trails, or the adventure of camping under the stars, there are countless ways to enjoy the season while keeping cool. Here’s a guide to some of the best activities and destinations to help you make the most of your summer. Hiking in the heart of Durban – Virginia Bush: Nestled within Durban North, Virginia Bush offers an accessible oasis from the bustling city. With its well-maintained trails and diverse birdlife, this location is ideal for hiking enthusiasts of all fitness levels. Picture yourself walking along a tranquil 1.5km loop trail, surrounded by serene forest scenery and a peaceful dam. Whether you’re…

The Kardashians have had an incredible journey, moving past critics who once dismissed them as being “famous for being famous”. This celebrity reality TV family has been a staple on our screens since October 2007. Of course, back then, they were on E! Entertainment. However, after 20 remarkable seasons and a few notable spinoffs in between, they moved to Hulu, which is housed under Disney+ in SA. The reality series centres, and continues to largely focus, on the famous “momager” Kris Jenner and her daughters, Kim, Khloé and Kourtney Kardashian. Of course, Kylie and Kendall Jenner make it onto a few frames – but it is the three older sisters that steal the limelight. Fans have watched them evolve into powerhouse entrepreneurs, build their families, get married (more than once…

It is one thing to survive trauma. It is another to retell your story years later with humour and grace, transforming pain into strength. That is Jo-Anne Reyneke’s gift and her core power. In a candid interview with South African podcaster Penuel “The Black Pen” Mlotshwa on The Konvo Show, Reyneke stepped into the spotlight not to shock or seek a trending status but to share an unfiltered truth that transcends her fame. Before she became one of Mzansi’s most beloved actresses, Reyneke lived through an experience no young woman should ever confront. “I was quite protected by my mom, empilweni yam,” she reflected softly but firmly. “Akukho okubi okuningi okwenzeke… (there's nothing bad that happened in my life) other than my kidnapping. Which is not my mom’s fault; that…

First it was Black Friday, then Cyber Monday. Adding to the list of shopping spree days taking off in the US now is Green Wednesday. South Africans could be forgiven for missing this day – the day before the US Thanksgiving – as it hasn’t been imported here. Yet. The cannabis industry’s sales spike the day before Thanksgiving when cannabis dispensaries run heavy promotions in the US. In 2021, Green Wednesday was one of the top five days for cannabis sales in the US with the industry reporting $98.2 million in sales, third behind Black Friday ($99m) and April 20 ($111.8m), according to Axios. At yesterday morning’s exchange rate of R17.16, that amounts to R1.69 billion, R1.7bn, and R2bn respectively. April 20 – 4/20 – when it isn’t Easter, is…

EVERY drop counts, and today, Africa is counting on you. South Africa’s blood supply is among the safest in the world, despite carrying the highest HIV burden globally. Yet less than one percent of eligible donors give blood, leaving hospitals in a daily fight for lifesaving supplies. Today, at least 16 African nations unite for Red Saturday, a continent-wide campaign to boost donations. Nigeria, Liberia, Ethiopia, Namibia, Ghana, and South Africa are mobilising donors to save lives and raise awareness about the critical need for voluntary blood donation. By working together, these countries aim not just to increase donations for immediate needs but to encourage a culture of regular giving that can sustain their blood systems year-round. South Africa alone requires at least 3 000 units daily, yet only a…

The 1000 Hills panorama provides a perfect backdrop to celebrating music – with publicist Illa Thompson mimicking the iconic Julie Andrews album cover this week. The hills will indeed be alive with the sound of music. This afternoon at the Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market at 3pm, the Durban Caledonian Pipe Band presents Carols and Kilts (a programme that will be repeated tomorrow at the DLI Hall in Greyville at 2pm). This presents a blend of highland music, a medley of Christmas carols and evergreen bagpipe favourites. (Tickets from Quicket) Also tomorrow, Sunday at 3pm the Durban Symphonic Choir presents Christmas in Concert at St Joseph’s Cathedral, Mariannhill featuring AJ Bethke on the organ. They present beloved classics and new works. (Tickets from Quicket). The KZN Philharmonic and the Durban…

Viola Fletcher, one of the last two known survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre and a plaintiff in a symbolic lawsuit seeking reparations for the attack – one of the worst episodes of racial violence in American history – has died. She was 111. Her death was announced this week by Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols, who did not share additional details. “Mother Fletcher”, as she was known, “endured more than anyone should, yet she spent her life lighting a path forward with purpose,” Nichols said. The Tulsa Race Massacre received wide attention on its centennial, in 2021, but for decades had been largely shrouded in silence. Little of the event was known even among families of the victims, many of whom were only one generation removed from slavery and…

Escorting the couple through his restaurant’s high-end wine cellar, Christian Borel grew uneasy – the woman with her rapid-fire questions, the man with his overcoat wandering in and out of view. As the three walked back upstairs, Borel couldn’t shake the feeling. He raced back down and spotted them: screw-top replacements where his finest wines had once been. Borel ran back up. “Stop them!” he shouted. “They’re stealing the Romanée-Contis!” And the chase was on. Borel and three other staff members, joined by a patron in a Porsche, headed outside to try to catch the couple heading for their getaway car in the bucolic Shenandoah Valley wine country 95.5km west of Washington. The take: six bottles of French pinot noir the restaurant valued at $38 000 (R652 273). Matthew Leader,…

Barnaby’s Grillhouse Where: 10 Mackeurtan Ave, Durban North Open: Daily 11.30am to 10pm Call: 031 001 9112 Our little lunch club met again and had one of our better Sunday lunches this year. The Food Writer had noted the opening of Barnaby’s Grillroom that week. It’s nestled on Mackeurtan Ave where Julio’s used to be. The Fat Frog Lady and I jumped on board. And what a difference a good renovation makes. It no longer feels cramped in some dingy corner. It was light with a rebuilt open deck under an awning like roof, smart finishings and wicker lighting and plenty of light stone edges. The hand rails may not have been put in yet on the stairs, nor the outside windows to protect against inclement weather, but the restaurant…

Special edition vehicles are nothing new in South Africa, with virtually every manufacturer having one in their line-up, and when you add a “black” moniker to it, it becomes especially popular in the market. The latest one to do so is GWM with the Tank 500, adding cosmetic additions that essentially replace the shiny chrome bits with blacked-out exterior details. Style with substance The large premium hybrid seven-seater SUV features GWM’s design philosophy of “style with substance” with a gloss-black mesh grille, dark-chrome roof rails, blacked-out exterior mirror caps, black finish across the rear facia and spare wheel cover and 18-inch black alloy wheels. The interior gets black Nappa leather surfaces accentuated with subtle dark-metal trim and ambient lighting. Powertrain remains Everything else remains unchanged, including the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol…

“Volkswagen South Africa is really showing us the middle finger with this one,” exclaimed a recent post about the Volkswagen Saveiro on a popular social media group. This is one of many similar posts over the years, showing that South Africans really can’t get over the fact that VWSA has never introduced this Brazilian half-tonne bakkie to South Africa. There was once a time when South Africans were spoiled for choice when it came to compact, half-ton bakkies. From the Ford Bantam to the Fiat Strada, the Opel Corsa Utility that eventually morphed into the Chevrolet Utility and Nissan’s long-serving NP200 that effectively killed off the segment when it was discontinued as the last half-tonner standing in 2024. Volkswagen SA also sold the Caddy, based on the MK1 Golf, until…

It says everything about the tight-knit group the Springboks are that legendary former player Duane Vermeulen could yet feature in the season finale against Wales in Cardiff. It would take an overnight illness akin to the reported illness that allegedly hamstrung the all Blacks ahead of the 1995 World Cup final, or injuries in the warm-up, but Vermeulen is player 24 for the Boks. Vermeulen, a Springbok assistant coach since retiring as a player after the 2023 World Cup triumph, has trained with a Bok squad that was reduced to 24 players because this game is outside of the international window. Yesterday, Kolisi confirmed that the 39-year-old — well known as Thor — trained as if he had never been away. “It’s great to have Duane as a coach, but…

Springbok centurion Willie Le Roux says he has been the Boks’ “biggest fan” while watching from his home sofa as they rampaged across Europe on their end-of-season tour. “If you are not there, you are the biggest supporter back home,” the veteran said. “I was shouting for them in the games, sending them messages during the week, and they sent me pics from the changeroom afterwards and when they were having their fines committee.” The 101-cap Le Roux was speaking to the media at the launch of a new sponsorship which sees Samsung joining SA Rugby as the official mobile and electronics partner across the Springboks, Springbok Women, Junior Boks, Blitzboks and Women’s Sevens. Samsung have also partnered with the United Rugby Championship. “The Boks have made us proud, and…

A tight-knit, focused and desperate Stormers side will pitch up at Thomond Park in Limerick today looking to bag a first-ever victory over Munster in Ireland and to keep their unbeaten run in the United Rugby Championship (URC) going. Following a good start to the new season, especially away from home, the Cape side will arguably face their biggest Test in the top-of-the-log clash at Thomond Park (7.30pm kick-off). Their hosts were strengthened by some experienced Irish internationals for the duel. The Stormers, on the other hand, have opted to remain with their tried-and-tested combinations and decided not to fly in Springboks reinforcements. Director of rugby John Dobson had the option to recall some internationals, but with the world champions facing Wales in Cardiff, and his side on a good…

Have Liverpool reached rock bottom or do they have further to fall as they prepare for a tricky-looking match at West Ham this weekend? The Premier League champions have suffered six defeats in their past seven league games, with few signs that Arne Slot is getting a grip on the situation. In stark contrast, buoyant leaders Arsenal take on second-placed Chelsea showing clear signs that they are finally equipped to end their two-decade title drought. AFP Sport looks at three talking points ahead of this weekend's action: Liverpool crisis deepens Liverpool have lost nine of their past 12 matches in all competitions - a full-blown crisis by the standards of one of the world's biggest clubs. The Anfield team are on their worst run of form for more than 70…

American comedian Kevin Hart recently gave us a peek into one of their wildest family vacations ever. It involved jungle vines, sweaty hikes and a lot of “maybe I should’ve thought this through” moments. In his new Netflix special Acting My Age, Hart dedicates a good 13 minutes to what was supposed to be a chilled‑out trip to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Instead, he got up close and personal, no glass, no barrier, with real mountain gorillas. Hart says: “We wanted to take a vacation … We went to Rwanda. I wanted a new experience, something that could give us a little bit of culture... When we go on vacation, the word ‘no’ never exists. We embrace it all.” And embrace it they did. One of the first things…

After a relatively stable year for fuel prices, South Africans will have to dig a little deeper in December, with petrol and diesel prices set to increase. Month-end data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) shows that 95 Unleaded petrol is likely to increase by 25 cents, while 93 Unleaded will go up by 20 cents. Diesel is set for more significant hikes, with 500ppm predicted to increase by 64 cents and 50ppm by 81 cents. From Wednesday, you can expect to pay around R20.54 for a litre of 95 Unleaded petrol at the coast and R21.37 in the inland areas, where 93 Unleaded will cost around R21.17. The wholesale price of 50ppm diesel will rise to around R19.23 at the coast and R19.99 inland. These predictions are based on…

Sir Charles Beeferoni’s journeys begin with a glacial trek down his driveway and a right turn onto a sidewalk. The English bulldog passes an alley before reaching an electrical pole that he sniffs, then relieves himself on. Sir Charles Beeferoni, whom his owners call Beef, then crosses a street to arrive at a striped pole next to a speed bump. There, Beef turns around to face a challenge: the return walk. By the time Beef gets back to his owners’ Tucson home about 30 minutes after starting his walk, he has covered less than a quarter mile (0.4km). Exhausted, he and his devoted walker, Manny Miranda, 78, nap for a few hours, their snores echoing through the house. Manny is the only person with whom Beef will walk. For this…

A previously unknown work by French impressionist painter Auguste Renoir of his toddler son Jean sold for E1.8 million (R36m) at a Paris auction this week, the Drouot auction house said. The oil painting – L’enfant et ses jouets - Gabrielle et le fils de l’artiste, Jean” – (The Child and His Toys, Gabrielle and the son’s artist Jean) - had not been exhibited or sold before. It belonged to Jean’s godmother Jeanne Baudot, a friend and student of Renoir’s, who passed the painting on to her inheritors. Believed to have been painted between 1890 and 1895, it features the artist’s second son, who went on to become an Oscar-winning filmmaker, shown sitting with his nanny. Pascal Perrin, an art historian and Renoir expert, lauded the “exceptional condition of the…

For much of the world, the Taj Mahal is a place of wonder. By far the most famous monument in India, it is visited by diplomats and romanticised in films. Its origin story – built by a 17th-century Muslim ruler as a mausoleum for his favorite wife, who died in childbirth – is taught in classrooms and honoured as a Unesco World Heritage site. For generations, it has been a national emblem of artistic excellence and cultural sophistication that transcends regional rivalries, politics and religion. Yet in recent years, the Taj has also become a contested site, targeted by those determined to recast India’s pluralist history. The symbol of love is now a flash point in India’s historical antagonism between Hindus and minority Muslims, a battle between historians –…

Hardly a month goes by without a new Chinese brand or model announcement, and more often than not, they’re well priced and even better specced. As with all things, some are better than others, but South African consumers have embraced many of them, and we’re seeing more people with calculators in hand than stars in their eyes before signing an offer to purchase. This is especially so in the premium market, as demonstrated by the Omoda 2.0TGDI 400T Explore AWD, which makes a fine case for itself. Omoda is part of the Chery Group, which has been making strong inroads into the local market and has become a household name in part as a result of its popular Tiggo range. Think of Omoda as their luxury brand, and for R885…

The Second World War was won on the home front as well as the battlefield. As early as 1942, the British government pledged itself, as soon as the Nazis were defeated, to slaying “Five Giants on the road to reconstruction”: disease, want, ignorance, squalor and idleness. This pledge boosted morale and provided the template for the postwar welfare state. A “revolutionary moment in the world’s history is a time for revolutions, not for patching”, wrote William Beveridge, the Liberal grandee who wrote the government report that identified the giants. Today we are involved in another war and another revolution – an undeclared war against the “axis of autocracy”, led by Russia and China, and a revolution driven by technological innovation. The Five Giants that Beveridge identified have largely been vanquished.…

South Africans’ financial confidence has reached its highest level in three years, rising from 47 in 2024 to 53 out of 100 in 2025, according to the latest Sanlam Financial Confidence Index. The study shows a nation that feels more in control of its finances, yet still struggles to turn confidence into consistent, long-term action. According to the index, after years of economic instability, many South Africans are recalibrating their relationship with money. Half of respondents now believe they could recover from a financial setback, an 11% increase from last year. Kele Boakgomo, CEO of Yugrow and behavioural scientist, says this reflects a nation in recovery: “We’re seeing a collective shift from survival mode to control. Financial stress has forced new habits – people are protecting what they have, prioritising…

Plenty of stars may be unavailable for the Springboks, but the world champions believe they still selected a very strong and capable team to take down Wales in the final Test of 2025 to end their November tour unbeaten for the second consecutive season. Looking at the side that will run out in Cardiff, with only three rookies in it, it is difficult to argue against it and the Welsh and their supporters at the Principality Stadium (5.10pm kick-off) could be in for a long afternoon if things go according to plan for the Boks. While the hand of the coaches may have been forced in making certain selections due to the unavailability of key players, this clash presents another chance for the Boks to showcase their player-depth as they…

The Lions know they’re heading into a tough block of United Rugby Championship and Challenge Cup matches until the end of January, with six of the next 10 games being away from home. That’s why today’s clash with the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld (2pm kick-off) feels even more important as they try to regain some winning momentum after a month-long break in the URC competition, especially after a massive victory over Ulster. They’ve selected a fairly settled side for the trip to Pretoria, but with the Bulls welcoming back a few big names — including some Springboks — the Jukskei derby is about to get a whole lot more interesting. And of course, this isn’t just another meeting between these two. The Bulls–Lions rivalry has a way of bringing out…

Lando Norris insisted he is feeling calm and composed ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix, where he could claim his first Formula 1 drivers’ world championship title. Unfazed by the double disqualification of himself and McLaren team-mate and title rival Oscar Piastri in Las Vegas last weekend, the 26-year-old Briton told reporters he is completely at ease ahead of this weekend’s showdown. “I feel as relaxed now as I did when I was 35 points behind, and I feel the same when I’m 24 points ahead,” Norris said. “For now, that’s my strength. It feels the same as it did before Mexico, when I wasn’t leading, and in Austin.” Norris, who needs only to outscore Piastri and defending four-time champion Max Verstappen of Red Bull by two points to secure…

As the curtain begins to fall on the Betway Premiership 2025 season, all eyes will be on the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban today, where Orlando Pirates will clash with the impressive Durban City. With current league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns enjoying a break from Premiership action this weekend, the opportunity is ripe for Pirates to seize top spot in the standings. Pirates find themselves neck and neck with Sundowns, with both clubs locked on 25 points. Sundowns, however, hold a slight two-goal edge on goal difference. A decisive win for Pirates could catapult them to the summit of the league, further solidifying the impressive run that has seen them unbeaten since a loss to Marumo Gallants in August. Pirates have enjoyed a remarkable campaign, amassing eight wins, one draw,…

TOMORROW, Stellenbosch FC will play Tanzania’s Singida Black Stars at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar, aiming to build on their recent success in the CAF Confederation Cup. Following a last-gasp 1-0 victory against AS Otoho last week in Polokwane, the South African visitors are hoping to secure their second consecutive Group C win. Stellenbosch followed up with a midweek domestic win, which has boosted the team’s confidence. Coach Steve Barker expressed optimism following a spirited performance in which his team came from behind to win 2-1 against Orbit College, just days after their continental victory. “Hopefully, that (win against Orbit) can give us confidence that we’re never out of the game and that if we keep pushing hard and never giving up, anything is possible,” Barker stated. He emphasised the…

for those in South Africa looking to explore the open seas, this summer promises to be particularly thrilling. Kicking off in November and lasting until June, which aligns with the local summer season, cruise travel offers an unparalleled opportunity for relaxation and adventure. Here are some essential tips for setting sail: Know what’s included in your booking: Not all cruises offer an all-inclusive package. Review your cruise documents thoroughly to pinpoint what is covered, particularly in terms of drinks, gratuities and speciality dining. Arrive early: Plan to arrive at your departure city at least a day before your cruise. This accounts for any potential travel delays and allows you ample time to settle. On departure day, ensure you arrive at the cruise terminal well ahead of the scheduled boarding time,…

Despite their small size, charming towns around the globe boast rich histories, stunning landscapes, and a warmth often overshadowed by sprawling cities. These hidden gems are perfect getaways, inviting travellers to slow down, immerse themselves in local culture and enjoy heartfelt hospitality. Unlike bustling metropolises, visitors to small towns can uncover unique attractions and create genuine connections, all while sticking to a budget. Here are five remarkable destinations that should be on every travel enthusiast’s bucket list. A picturesque Provencal paradise – Gordes, France: Nestled in the idyllic Luberon Valley of France, Gordes is renowned for its breathtaking views and historic charm. The village’s narrow cobblestone streets wind past beautifully preserved stone houses, leading visitors to iconic landmarks like the imposing Château de Gordes and the peaceful Sénanque Abbey. Each…