Innholdsfortegnelse for 2025-12-13 i Saturday Star

If you thought the Sean "Diddy" Combs saga couldn’t get any worse, honey, think again. I just finished the latest Netflix docuseries, Sean Combs: The Reckoning, and let me tell you, I’m convinced he is the literal devil. From the get-go, we see him panicked, the kind of panic that makes your stomach knot. You see the fear in his eyes, but of course, he’s still trying to flex that “I’m the coolest, most powerful man in the room” energy. And that’s exactly what makes this whole thing terrifying. I mean, I’ve always known Hollywood is a little (okay, a lot) off. Humans aren’t supposed to be worshipped like gods. But this? This gave me a crystal-clear view of just how dark the story really is. And 50 Cent unlocked…

One person was killed and several others trapped when a section of the New Ahobilam Temple of Protection in Verulam, KwaZulu-Natal, collapsed yesterday just after midday. Rescue teams worked through the afternoon to free survivors, with 11 people already pulled from the rubble. Temple owner Vicky Panday was among those caught beneath the debris, while authorities launched an urgent investigation into construction practices and safety standards in the face of extreme weather conditions. By 5pm, emergency services confirmed two women and nine men, had been rescued and transported to hospital, with rescue operations expected to continue throughout the night. KwaZulu-Natal Public Works and Infrastructure MEC Martin Meyer said the city had been buffeted by unusually strong winds over the past two days. While he stressed that it was too early…

South African taxpayers with holiday homes and investment properties abroad are about to come under far sharper scrutiny, as SARS moves to secure automatic reporting on offshore immovable property from more than 20 countries. According to Delano Abdoll, Legal Manager for Cross-Border Taxation, and Tasmin Kotze, Tax Legal Associate at Tax Consulting South Africa, South Africa is among 25 jurisdictions that have formally signalled their intention to join the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD) new reporting framework, which enables the automatic exchange of information on non-financial assets, including foreign property. South Africa plans to activate the new reporting rules by 2029 or 2030, after completing its internal legislative process. "This follows a new international initiative to exchange data on offshore immovable property. It includes your holiday villa in…

Police in Limpopo have arrested three foreign nationals accused of running a “prophetic” scam in Polokwane, allegedly using counterfeit money and rats to swindle community members. The men, all Ugandan nationals aged between 32 and 37, were apprehended on Wednesday after the Provincial Tracking Team followed intelligence about individuals soliciting money from residents under false spiritual pretences. According to Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, officers raided a residence in Penina Park where the suspects were found without valid passports. "A search of the premises resulted in the recovery of an undisclosed amount of counterfeit money and five rats, allegedly used as tools to deceive victims during the fraudulent activities. The suspects were immediately placed under arrest," said Ledwaba. The suspects are expected to appear in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court…

When Mattias Krantz received a white package at his Swedish home, it contained an octopus he had purchased from a Portuguese fishery, rescuing it from becoming someone’s dinner. The 28-year-old YouTuber, known for videos featuring modified musical instruments, had an ambitious plan for his new eight-armed friend: within six months, he wanted “Takoyaki” (nicknamed Tako) to play piano well enough to perform Under the Sea and the theme from Jaws. “You’re going to be the greatest pianist the sea has ever known,” Krantz told the octopus after settling him into a 110-gallon tank equipped with filtration systems, rocks, sand and toys. The musical training project, which eventually garnered more than 6 million YouTube views, proved extraordinarily challenging. “It was probably the worst thing I’ve ever done, and maybe the coolest…

Karl Bushby made a barroom bet that he could walk from the southern tip of South America all the way home to England. His friends had little faith. “Suddenly, it became a challenge,” Bushby said of the bet he made in his 20s. “That conversation gathered steam, until eventually I did the math and thought, ‘this is doable’ … I became semi-obsessed with what it would take to achieve something like this.” A few years later, in 1998, he stood at the edge of Punta Arenas, Chile – about as far from his hometown of Hull, England, as a person can get on foot – ready to begin a 50 000km expedition he thought would take roughly 12 years. It’s been 27 years, and Bushby, now 56, is still walking.…

In a remarkable feat combining endurance and social impact, entrepreneur and CEO Keith Boyd has completed a groundbreaking journey, running a staggering 11,000 kilometres from Cape Town to Cairo in just 301 days. He achieved this extraordinary accomplishment on 22 May 2024, securing a Guinness World Record for the fastest run along this iconic stretch of the African continent. Beyond the physical challenge, Boyd’s mission was deeply rooted in raising awareness for RainbowLeaders.org.za, a foundation dedicated to empowering South Africa’s youth and fostering democratic participation. “Poverty is overwhelmingly a country-specific problem,” Boyd remarked. “Its greatest contributor is poor leadership, which leads to a trust deficit, deterring investment and slowing economic growth. Educating and motivating young people to vote is key to changing that.” This conviction propelled Boyd to undertake the…

South Africa’s schools are emerging as unexpected powerhouses in climate innovation, with learners building technologies and enterprises that mirror – and in some cases outpace – national policy efforts. This was the clear message from the 2025 Step Up 2 A Green Start-Up National Youth Entrepreneurship Awards, held on December 9, at Protea Wanderers in Sandton, where nearly 14 000 learners competed for the country’s biggest school-based green entrepreneurship honours. This year’s top winners reflected not only creativity but deep technical ability, as teams from township and peri-urban schools delivered solutions to unemployment, water scarcity, pollution, hazardous waste and climate-related risks. Leap Science and Maths School in Ga-Rankuwa claimed first place with its Job Sweep App, a digital platform designed to connect unemployed youth to micro-jobs in their communities. Judges…

In a heartwarming milestone that underscores the transformative power of healthcare, 3-year-old Nzulu from the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast recently blew out birthday candles for the first time. This joyous occasion was made possible by the life-changing cleft lip and palate surgeries he received through Operation Smile South Africa’s (OSSA) comprehensive cleft care programme during his formative years. As the year draws to a close, Nzulu’s family reflects on the profound impact of OSSA’s support. “We were overjoyed when we learned that Nzulu could receive free cleft care through Operation Smile,” they said. “Knowing this support was available at no cost gave us hope. We are truly blessed and grateful.” Before this momentous birthday celebration, Nzulu’s journey started from humble beginnings. His parents first learned about Operation Smile while attending cleft…

Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are seen as an ideal bridge between internal combustion and electric motoring, particularly for countries such as South Africa, where long-distance driving is the norm and range anxiety is a real concern. Although they do have smaller and cheaper batteries than traditional electric vehicles, the cost of incorporating electric and petrol engines means they aren’t necessarily cheap to produce, and until now, all PHEVs have cost more than R600 000 in South Africa. That changes with the BYD Sealion 5, which is launching in South Africa this week. Pricing starts at R499 900 for the Comfort version, rising to R569 900 for the Dynamic variant, in both cases significantly undercutting the larger Sealion 6, which costs from R639 900. The Sealion 5 also undercuts the newly…

The validity period for driving licences in South Africa is set to increase from five years to eight, in a long-mooted move that has been welcomed by motorists and lobby groups alike. Transport Department Director- General Mathabatha Mokonyama confirmed this last week while briefing Parliament’s Select Committee on Public Infrastructure. “We have just concluded, although it took a little bit of time, the issue around extending the validity period of the driver’s licence card from five to eight years,” he told the committee. The decision was made following a detailed assessment, which found that South Africans favour a longer validity period. “They don’t want to come back to us every five years. So we definitely will be moving to eight years soon,” he added. While the Department of Transport has…

South Africa’s localised water crises are no longer looming threats but lived realities in many parts of the country. They are measurable, widespread and visible – destroying ecosystems, threatening public health and disrupting daily life in ways that can no longer be dismissed as isolated failures. The recent briefing to Parliament by the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA), drawing on the country’s first fully consolidated audit of the entire water value chain, lays bare a system in deep distress. For the first time, audits of national departments, water boards and 135 Water Services Authorities (WSAs) were consolidated to present a single, coherent picture. What emerged was not merely one of financial mismanagement, but of weakened governance, failing infrastructure and escalating risks to human and environmental health – failures long warned…

The holiday season is a time for family, friends, sunshine, and outdoor time, and the urge and opportunity to do as little as possible. In short, it’s a much‑needed break from the daily grind. But it’s also the perfect moment to start having conversations with your children and loved ones about money. Nasia Seyuba, head of people at Finchoice, explains that introducing kids to healthy financial habits early sets them up for a lifetime of good money management: “Children learn about money in two ways. Firstly, by watching how their parents handle everyday finances, and then through intentional teaching. The holiday season is ideal for both.” She says parents don’t need to dive straight into adult‑level financial discussions. Instead, focus on practical, age‑appropriate lessons. For younger children, having R100 to…

There are few life experiences quite as exciting and nerve-wracking as starting a new job. Whether you have just landed your first job ever or whether you are an experienced professional taking on your next big challenge, the early days and weeks in your new role will set the stage for long-term success. Here are some steps you can take to set the tone for a positive experience with your new employer: Prepare for your first day Before you even step into your new workplace, there are a few things you can do to prepare. Re-read your job description, the job offer, and other documents the company has provided. Refresh your knowledge about the company, its culture, and any recent news. You can then think about any questions you might…

Young Lions flyhalf Sam Francis returns to the starting line-up to face the Newcastle Red Bulls in the second Challenge Cup group match at Kingston Park Stadium in Newcastle on Saturday (7.30pm kick-off) after a long absence, with the pivot's stronger kicking game likely the deciding factor. Utlity back Lubabalo Dobela, who excels at attacking the line and probing for gaps, will provide flyhalf backup on the bench for coach Ivan van Rooyen's heavily rotated side. Richard Kriel and Manuel Rass will combine at centre and will look to give the Lions backline some striking power in the midfield. On the wing Rabz Maxwane will make his return after a lengthy injury, forming a back-three with fellow speedster Angelo Davids and Gianni Lombard, who will dictate play from fullback in…

Lucknow Super Giants head coach Justin Langer is expected to focus on acquiring Australian talent at the upcoming IPL auction, according to former India selector Saba Karim. LSG will enter the upcoming IPL 2026 auction, to be held in Abu Dhabi on December 16, with a purse of Rs22.95 crore (R42.7 million) and have to fill six slots, four of which are for overseas players. “I think Justin Langer and LSG will target the Australian players in the auction. They need to be strong at the auction and target players like Cameron Green and Aaron Hardie.” “Both are handy all-rounders who can bat and bowl. Australians have a winning mentality, which LSG wants. “In their bowling attack, they brought in Mohammed Shami. I think their bowling coach, Bharat Arun, believes…

The Hollywoodbets Cape Guineas takes centre stage today at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, where a top-class field will offer an exhilarating contest steeped in rich tradition and history. Over the decades, the Cape Guineas has served as a launchpad for numerous champions, each horse contributing its own chapter to the event’s rich honour roll. Among the distinguished trainers participating this year are Dean Kannemeyer and Vaughan Marshall, who have each celebrated success in this classic race six times. Marshall, a neighbour of Kannemeyer in Milnerton, aims to build on last year’s win with One Stripe. This time, he fields Vapour Trail, an Erik the Red colt, with jockey Gavin Lerena aboard. Although Vapour Trail may not be the front-line contender, he remains a worthy competitor capable of defying the odds with a…

ALMOST THREE decades have passed since Bafana Bafana reached the summit of African football, yet for Mark Williams – a hero of the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations triumph – the memories still echo powerfully whenever he steps into the FNB Stadium. “It was all 29 years ago, which next (year) will be 30 years ago,” he reflects, almost in disbelief at how time has marched on. We are at the national soccer stadium, venue of that glorious afternoon when Williams came off the bench to send South Africa into delirium. Of course, the nostalgia is not where his mind lingers. Instead, Williams remains fixated on one thing: the hope that the current generation of Bafana players can finally reclaim the glory that made them continental kings. And if anyone…

Kaizer Chiefs DStv Diski Challenge assistant coach Dillon Sheppard has praised the character and development of rising stars Mfundo Vilakazi and Mduduzi Shabalala as they continue to establish themselves within the senior setup. The two academy-bred midfielders – firm favourites among the club’s supporters – have been entrusted with significant responsibility this season as Amakhosi aim to re-establish themselves as one of the country’s leading teams. Chiefs have exceeded their early-season expectations and head into the Africa Cup of Nations break sitting fourth on the log, a position that reflects the progress they have made during a period of rebuilding. Shabalala and Vilakazi, both products of the club’s development system, have been central to navigating this transitional phase, during which Chiefs have undergone considerable changes in both coaching staff and…

I recently found myself binge-watching Playing Gracie Darling, a six-part Netflix series which blurs the line between a psychological thriller and a supernatural mystery. It is a compelling watch that flits between past and present. Joni Grey (Morgana O’Reilly), the protagonist, is a child psychologist and single mother to two daughters. The story begins with her returning to her hometown following the disappearance of Frankie Darling (Ariel Donoghue), who is the daughter of Ruth (Celia Pacquol). This development hits a nerve with Joni as it’s tied to her childhood. Joni’s best friend, Gracie Darling (Kristina Bogic), who is Ruth’s cousin, went missing shortly after a group of them held a seance. She was 14 at the time. Twenty-seven years later, the turn of events becomes a trigger for Joni. Assisted…

Following a spike in robberies linked to stokvel savings, Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe is urging communities to stay alert and avoid keeping large sums of cash at home. In the most recent incident, a 55-year-old woman was allegedly robbed of a substantial amount of stokvel money during a house robbery in Nkowankowa Location, Limpopo on Saturday, December 6. According to police, the incident occurred at around 04:43 when the woman returned indoors after fetching water. She was confronted by two unknown suspects, one armed, who demanded money. The suspects forced her into the bedroom, where they took a plastic bag containing stokvel savings along with her cellphone. “The woman was pushed to the floor and sustained injuries. The suspects fled the scene on foot. No shots were fired,”…

The City of Ekurhuleni has confirmed that the head of its Department of Human Resources, Linda Gxasheka, has been placed on precautionary suspension with immediate effect for failing to institute disciplinary action against acting EMPD chief brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi. The city announced the suspension in a statement yesterday. Mkhwanazi was recently suspended for allegedly entering the EMPD into a fraudulent contract with murder-accused business tycoon Vusimuzi “CAT” Matlala. He has also been implicated in corruption and in shielding criminal networks within the justice system and SAPS. Mkhwanazi recently appeared before the Madlanga Commission, which is investigating alleged political interference and the protection of criminal networks within law enforcement. “This decision follows a resolution of the Municipal Council taken on November 18, 2025, which delegated authority to the city manager to…

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has urged the South African government to abandon what he described as its deteriorating relationship with the United States and instead focus on strengthening ties with the People’s Republic of China, the world’s second-largest economy and a longstanding ally of Pretoria. Addressing journalists in Johannesburg, Malema said the Democratic Alliance (DA), which previously frowned upon South Africa's relationship with China, had undergone what he termed a “Damascus moment” and now supports Pretoria’s ties with Beijing. “We are saying to you, trade with China. Let’s work with China. The DA said China is an undesirable partner, and all of that. After eating Uber Eats, he (DA leader John Steenhuisen) was in China, he wanted to eat with those things, chopsticks. “We have been saying…

The 16 Days of Activism campaign may have concluded, but child-protection organisations warn that the dangers it highlighted remain urgent and increasingly severe. As public focus shifts, the Tiona Megan Moodley and Darren Gavin Wilken case has thrust South Africa into the centre of a global crisis. Experts say it underscores the extent to which digital crimes have outpaced laws, safety systems and the capacity of platforms to protect children. It is also revealed that the rapid spread of child sexual exploitation online is taking place on mainstream platforms, where children themselves are active. The pair face charges relating to possession, distribution, transmission and commercial exploitation of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), alongside allegations of unlawful interception of data, fraud, drug possession, organised crime and money laundering. Authorities seized an…

Bryan Reisberg spends one day each week taking shelter dogs on adventures through New York City subways, carrying them in a backpack emblazoned with “adopt me.” His mission is simple but effective: show potential adopters the true personalities of shelter dogs. Recording these outings, Reisberg creates polished videos for social media where they’ve garnered over 75 million views. The results speak for themselves – of the 11 dogs he’s featured so far, 10 have found permanent homes. “The primary goal of every video is to get these dogs adopted,” says Reisberg, who accompanies each post with engaging captions highlighting the dog’s personality and preferences. Reisberg’s journey into pet advocacy began in 2015 with his own corgi, Maxine. Taking her to work in a backpack, he noticed how her presence brightened…

Amid declining youth voter turnout, high unemployment, and growing distrust in democratic institutions, young South Africans are set to directly engage with veterans of the Struggle and leaders of the democratic era at the Maropeng Youth Conversation. The two-day event, hosted by Kagiso Trust, was held at the Soweto Hotel & Conference Centre on December 10 and 11. “This conversation places young people at the centre – shaping, leading and driving a catalytic conversation about South Africa’s future,” says Dr Mankodi Moitse, the CEO of Kagiso Trust. The dialogue comes at a critical time for South African democracy. Only 42% of eligible voters participated in last year’s national elections, with youth turnout significantly lower, while unemployment among 15 to 34-year-olds stands at 46.1%. The event will create a rare space…

David Obagbuwa has graduated with an MBChB from Stellenbosch University (SU), becoming one of the youngest medical doctors, at just 21 years old, to qualify in South Africa. Obagbuwa began his medical studies at the tender age of 15. Despite the challenges associated with his age and commencing his studies during the COVID pandemic, he persevered and graduated this week. Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, Obagbuwa was welcomed into the 2020 intake of medical students. At the time, he said being admitted into SU was a dream come true, and that he intended to set a record by graduating at 21. “This achievement is a testament to the mentorship, support, and world-class education I’ve received from the Stellenbosch community. I’m incredibly grateful and it feels truly special to now reach the…

The human brain has four distinct turning points where its structure changes, according to a study published in the journal Nature Communications, demonstrating that brain development is not as linear as you might think. “It’s easy to fall into this belief that there’s a ‘good’ or ‘bad’ way for a brain to be structured,” said lead study author Alexa Mousley at the University of Cambridge. “And that’s not really the case. What this study is emphasising is the brain is expected to be doing something different at different ages.” In the new study, Mousley and colleagues looked at about 4 000 scans from healthy people ages 0 to 90 and analysed their brains. They found four major times when the brain under- went developmental changes, around ages nine, 32, 66…

You may remember the Yellow Land Rover Defenders adorned with Camel stickers and teams from around the world pushing themselves physically and mentally to the absolute limit as they vied for top honours in the world’s toughest endurance race to become the Camel Trophy winners. January sees the revival of that iconic event, this time called the Defender Trophy, where teams will still be pushed to the limit, only in new Defenders. I’ll be there. There’s a twist this time around with a handful of journalists also competing, and I don’t know whether to laugh or cry, but I’m one of them. I’m a huge fan of the green oval and despite driving some of the world’s latest and greatest cars for Independent Newspapers and IOL, every time I get…

Of all the ways to understand US President Donald Trump’s belligerence toward Venezuela – as a campaign against “narco-terrorists”, a play for its oil reserves, a desire to control the Western Hemisphere – the most overlooked is the outcome he covets more than all those things combined: greatness. For Trump, Venezuela is not just a geopolitical question. It is an opportunity to lead in war, a hallmark of presidents considered the nation’s best. No one runs for the White House to be pedestrian. Every president has a theory of greatness. For some, it’s decisiveness in transformative moments – the mix of judgment, personality and courage brought to bear in times of profound uncertainty. For others, it’s reflected in how much the nation bends, or bows, to the presidency. And for…

The private healthcare system in South Africa is failing consumers, and the medical scheme industry is unsustainable. The latest Industry Report for 2024 by the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), released last week, confirmed for me these unpleasant truths. Medical scheme membership has been growing more slowly than the South African population for some years now, and the average age of membership is rising. Long-term prospects are looking poor unless the government and private sector can put their differences aside for the sake of the consumer. From my viewpoint, each is as bad as the other. Healthcare providers should not be able to charge what they like. There is virtually zero control over the pricing of medicines, treatments and specialist consultation fees. Efforts by the government over the years to…

In a hard-hitting joint media statement released on December 9, 2025, the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), in collaboration with Sars, and other law-enforcement agencies, announced a significant legal victory: a six-year direct prison sentence (with two years suspended) for Tshepo Khoza, director of Grey Apple Trading Enterprise (Pty) Ltd, on multiple counts of fraud and tax evasion amounting to roughly R3.6 million. Khoza’s company had received tenders from the South African Police Service (SAPS) under the DNA-project for its forensic science laboratory (FSL), tenders allegedly awarded because of his family ties to a senior SAPS official. Yet, between 2015 and 2018, despite earning substantial income from these contracts, Khoza declared his company dormant and failed to register for VAT or declare the revenue to Sars. This verdict comes after…

For the first time in AFCON’s history, each team will reside in its own exclusive camp throughout the tournament in Morocco, allowing them to focus on their performance without the disruption of constant travel. This landmark will transform the experience of the 24 teams who will benefit from dedicated Team Base Camps. South Africa’s national squad, Bafana Bafana, will take advantage of this unprecedented arrangement by staying at the luxurious Four Seasons hotel in Marrakech. Nestled in a verdant 40-acre expanse, the hotel is known as “a garden sanctuary in the heart of the red city.” It is strategically located between the ancient medina and the bustling, cosmopolitan neighbourhoods, offering players a tranquil yet vibrant environment to prepare for their matches. The dedicated facilities assigned to each team include high-performance…

It’s been an enthralling year of drag racing in sunny South Africa, filled with incredibly fast cars and some big crashes. South Africa’s three major drag racing provinces, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape saw competitors travel back and forth, competing for bragging rights and new personal bests. While there may be dozens of classes to go through, the 4 Cylinder rear-wheel-drive turbo and 6 Cylinder naturally-aspirated front-wheel drive classes have been the most competitive. South Africa’s naturally-aspirated front-wheel drive Nissan SR20 class has also seen some major developments, with Capetonian drag racer Jode Cupido shooting to the top of the class with his Nissan Langley. Pretoria drag racing team Murbros, led by Lucky Tladi, has traversed the country to finally seal a 10 second pass at Dezzi Raceway this…

Fans’ group Football Supporters Europe (FSE) called on Thursday for FIFA to stop the sale of tickets for next year’s World Cup due to their “extortionate” cost. According to FSE, the tickets for the competition in the United States, Canada and Mexico, running between June 11 and July 19, will cost almost five times more than the 2022 edition in Qatar. “Football Supporters Europe is astonished by the extortionate ticket prices imposed by FIFA on the most dedicated supporters for next year’s FIFA World Cup,” umbrella lobby group FSE said. It said that tickets allocated to national associations – typically distributed through official supporters’ groups or loyalty programmes to their most dedicated fans – were reaching “astronomical” levels. “Based on the information currently available to FSE, if a supporter were…

Travelling across South Africa can be an exciting way to explore new places, meet people and experience different cultures. For teenagers, it is important to plan carefully and stay safe while enjoying the adventure. With the right preparation, a trip can be both fun and secure. The first step in planning any trip is research: Learn about the places you want to visit, including local customs, transport options and popular attractions. South Africa offers a wide range of experiences, from beaches along the Garden Route to wildlife safaris in the Kruger National Park and cultural tours in cities like Cape Town and Durban. Knowing what to expect can help you plan better and avoid surprises. Safety comes next: Always keep your belongings secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.…

When summer arrives, many people think of beach holidays and relaxing by the pool. However, if you want to escape the heat and crowds, a mountain getaway can be the perfect choice. South Africa is home to stunning mountain destinations that offer cooler climates, breathtaking scenery, and a chance to recharge in nature. From the lush landscapes of Champagne Valley to the unique beauty of Richtersveld National Park, these retreats provide a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of city life. South Africa’s mountains offer diverse experiences, whether you’re seeking the thrill of adventure through hiking and outdoor pursuits or simply yearning to unwind in peaceful, serene environments. A lush oasis in the Drakensberg – Champagne Valley: This is a beautiful spot to visit during the summer months. The…

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has been denied leave to appeal the judgment that led to the acquittal of Timothy Omotoso. On Friday, the High Court in Gqeberha delivered its ruling on the NPA’s bid to challenge the outcome. Earlier this year, the Nigerian pastor and his co-accused were acquitted of 63 charges, including rape, human trafficking and racketeering. The state approached the court seeking permission to appeal the acquittal. Before taking the matter to a higher court, prosecutors required the High Court’s approval. The NPA may still petition the Supreme Court of Appeal. In October, IOL reported that defence lawyer Peter Daubermann argued the NPA’s application was based on a fundamental misunderstanding of the verdict and of what constitutes a factual finding in law. Omotoso, the leader of the…

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development are set to conduct lifestyle audits on all senior managers when “red flags” are picked up during the financial disclosures process done within the public service. The announcement was made by Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi while she responded to parliamentary questions from ANC MP Tshiamo Tshotetsi. Tshotetsi sought clarity on the progress made on lifestyle audits that had been conducted on officials within her department, including those of the NPA. Kubayi confirmed that she has consistently championed the implementation of lifestyle audits as a necessary measure in combating corruption across the justice sector. “This is in line with the president’s directive in the State of the Nation Address of 2022 for all senior managers…

In the vibrant yet vulnerable landscape of South Africa, nearly 10 million adolescents grapple with the weight of survival amid systemic neglect. A new study from the University of Pretoria’s Department of Psychology lays bare the harsh truths of adolescent girls navigating poverty, food insecurity and the life-altering consequences of transactional relationships. As these young women seek to fill their stomachs, they are often compelled to trade their safety for fleeting sustenance. Across communities where resources are minimal, the pressures faced by adolescent girls become unbearable. Professor Eugene Lee Davids sheds light on the pervasive issue, stating, “Food insecurity doesn’t just mean going to bed hungry – it reverberates through every aspect of life, especially for girls in impoverished areas.” Within these confines, access to education, healthcare and safe environments…

A lawmaker in Australia was left in udder disbelief when he came home to discover his pet dog had let a bull and a horse into his living room. Andrew Mackay, a Northern Territory politician, posted the incriminating evidence from his pet cam to social media at the weekend. His two pet dogs can be seen exiting the living room into a yard after one of them, a mutt named Thunder, nudges open a glass door. Then a pet steer, or castrated bull, named Sue gingerly wanders into the Darwin home. It’s followed by a pet horse, Cricket, which has a good sniff of the couch. The animals embarked on their escapade while Mackay and his fiancée were out for a meal. The couple raced home after the lawmaker checked…

It was a sunny Sunday on San Diego’s Ocean Beach when lifeguards noticed surfers in a panic. They were waving their boards from a jetty, desperately trying to get the lifeguards’ attention. There was a dog in the water in distress. About five surfers tried to help the dog onto the jetty, but she got spooked and jumped back into the water, where she was pulled out by a powerful rip current and was fighting to keep her head above water, said Marine Safety Lt Ryan Foster with San Diego Fire-Rescue. The dog, Sadie, a Labrador retriever mix, had gotten out of an Airbnb nearby and bolted to the beach. “This was very out of character for her,” said Alexis Barcellos, 30, one of Sadie’s owners, explaining that the dog’s…

From breaking records on TikTok to sharing messages of authenticity and self-love, Lord Kez opens up about her hit single Aweh, the power of collaboration, and why celebrating African talent matters now more than ever. With TikTok continuing to grow as a global platform for music, creativity, and culture, Lord Kez is making serious waves. Her infectious energy, combined with the viral reach of Aweh, which already has over 300 000 TikTok videos, cements her as one of the most exciting names shaping African music today. As one of the standout performers on the line-up at the TikTok Sub-Saharan Africa Awards, Lord Kez lit up the stage, and we caught up with her on the red carpet. The rising star, whose hit single Aweh is taking over TikTok, shared her…

Spray paint and brushes in hand, the artists focused on their murals, tuning out the chaotic symphony of car horns and swirls of exhaust from the Lagos traffic behind them. They put the finishing touches to their contributions for the inaugural Lagos Street Art Festival, which opened on Wednesday and promises to turn the mega-city into an "open-air gallery", according to the organisers. It is a novel promise in a country where street art and graffiti remain niche practices. It also offers a chance to add colour to the concrete jungle that more than 20 million Nigerians call home, with works featuring expansive cityscapes, kaleidoscopic patterns evoking African textiles and proud women in bright headwraps. "Lagos is a place where we have joy," artist Ashaolu Oluwafemi, 34, said, standing in…

A pioneering South African research project is turning to the night sky to address rising mental health challenges, with early findings showing that stargazing can reduce depression and anxiety while strengthening social connections. Researchers from Stellenbosch University’s CoCREATE Health Hub and the International Astronomical Union’s Office of Astronomy for Development (IAU OAD) are leading the initiative to scientifically examine how awe, nature immersion and “cosmic perspective-taking” influence emotional well-being. The project, Astronomy for Mental Health, explores how structured stargazing sessions, from community gatherings to overnight retreats, can support mental health. The research builds on Stephen Kaplan’s Attention Restoration Theory, which suggests that gentle, sensory environments help the brain recover from mental fatigue. The night sky, researchers say, offers “soft fascination” – a calming, restorative form of attention that requires no…

Ageing taps us on the shoulder in many ways: wrinkles, thinning hair, loss of flexibility and slowing of the brain. But the process also unfolds at a more fundamental, microscopic level, as the energy source inside most cells deteriorates. Scientists at Texas A&M University have discovered a way to recharge ageing and damaged cells, an innovation that could lead to better treatment for a variety of conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, muscular dystrophy and fatty liver disease. All cells, except those in red blood, get their energy from the mitochondria found in the fluid that surrounds the nucleus. The mitochondria play an important role in fighting viruses, starving parasites, and synthesising amino acids, sex hormones and other important chemicals in the body. As people age, their mitochondria diminish, “a primary or…

Mercedes-Benz is keen to take advantage of the legendary status that its iconic G-Class off-roader enjoys, and in product planning terms, that means expanding the family. The range has already been expanded to include an electric model, and a smaller version of the G is also in the works. Now the German firm has also confirmed that a Cabriolet version of the current G-Class is on the horizon. Judging by the disguised prototypes we see here, it appears to have a similar body format to the previous Maybach G-Class Landaulet of 2017. But while the latter was an ultra-exclusive and ultra-expensive model, the new Cabriolet will be aligned with the regular G-Class model range. According to Mercedes, the first prototypes of the new model are currently completing their first test…

The recent peaceful sit-in at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, organised by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) Cape Town and Mothers4Gaza, was not merely a protest against a concert – it was an urgent intervention into the very meaning of free expression and public accountability in South Africa. The action calls for the cancellation of a performance at the Botanical Gardens, later this month, by musician David Scott, known as The Kiffness, citing his long record of inflammatory and defamatory statements described as divisive, racially charged, Islamophobic and apartheid and genocide denial. The inevitable pushback against such protests often portrays them as a moral drama of “censorship” and “persecution”, a narrative that fundamentally misunderstands the true nature of free speech in a constitutional democracy. Framing the criticism as an “attack on…

The financial backdrop in 2025 is unusual: international and local stock markets are booming simultaneously. With US and local markets rallying, gold prices at all-time highs, and reaching new peaks, there's even talk of an AI bubble. This confluence of factors creates a powerful sense of financial confidence, yet it can also be seen as a classic setup. It's the kind of exuberance that has historically preceded sharp market corrections. The concern is simple and sobering: taking on new debt right now might become a heavy burden for consumers come 2026 if these global market dynamics shift. Experience from past economic cycles resonates deeply. If this perceived “bubble” does indeed burst, we could be looking at a global recession as severe as the early 2000s or the 2008 housing market…

Bulls coach Johan Ackermann says the plan was always to send a freshened-up team to Northampton for an away Champions Cup fixture on Sunday because of the demands a 12-month season makes on the players. The Bulls lost in Pretoria to Bordeaux last week to heap pressure on themselves in the premier competition, but Ackermann says that did not tempt him to change the plan and send his strongest possible team to England. “We have a plan to carefully manage each player, and it is an individual plan for each guy,” Ackermann explained. “Some guys have been away for two months with the Springboks, and we felt it was unfair to send them overseas again.” One such player is Handre Pollard, who has had just two games for the Bulls…

The Stormers will be counting heavily on the experience and sharp instincts of veteran Springbok scrumhalf Cobus Reinach when they square up against French giants La Rochelle in their first home Champions Cup clash in Gqeberha. Reinach’s presence brings more than just composure behind the scrum and at the base of the ruck. Having previously played for Montpellier before heading to Cape Town, he carries with him a wealth of insight into the rhythm and tactical DNA of French club rugby. That insider knowledge could prove priceless tomorrow in the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium (3pm kick-off) as the Cape side hunts for a second victory in this year’s competition. “He is extraordinary,” Stormers director of rugby John Dobson said about Reinach. “You can debate, but in the absence of Antoine…

Former Australia batter David Warner has backed his ex-opening partner Usman Khawaja to return to the top of the order for the third Ashes Test in Adelaide, suggesting that sliding Travis Head at No. 5 can pose more threat for England. In the series opener in Perth, Khawaja was unable to open in Australia’s first innings after spending extended time off the field with a back complaint during England’s batting. Marnus Labuschagne stepped in initially, but on day two Travis Head capitalised on the opportunity, producing a match-winning Ashes century for the ages. But Khawaja is fit again and has been named in the 15-man squad for the Adelaide Test. His most probable return would see him slot back into the opening role, pushing Travis Head down to No. 5,…

FIFA’s recent decision to postpone the release of players ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has sparked a wave of anger and frustration across the ‘Mother Continent’. Scheduled to begin on December 21 and end on January 18 in Morocco, national teams were to have access to their players starting from December 8. However, in a surprising move last week, FIFA announced that clubs would now have until December 15 to release their selected players, catching many teams off guard. The shift away from the long-established policy of earlier player releases has raised critical questions around fairness and preparation for Africa’s premier football tournament. Coaches, players, and fans alike have voiced their discontent, asserting that FIFA’s last-minute ruling undermines the integrity of the tournament and disrespects African football.…

All eyes are on Mohamed Salah’s uncertain future at Liverpool as Arne Slot tries to shut out the noise and prepare his men to face Brighton this weekend. The Egyptian superstar has hinted today’s match at Anfield could be his last for the Premier League champions, taking aim at manager Slot and the club hierarchy in an explosive interview. Leaders Arsenal host winless Wolves, who have lost their past eight games and are already 13 points from safety. Manchester City, now just two points behind the Gunners, face a tricky trip to London to face Oliver Glasner’s in-form Crystal Palace. Here we look at three talking points ahead of the action: Salah in the spotlight It is difficult to see a way back for Mohamed Salah at Anfield unless he…

As summer graces the southern hemisphere and winter blankets the northern hemisphere, travel opportunities abound in both regions. In South Africa, long summer days invite blissful beach outings, where the beach is not merely a destination but a cherished way of life. For Mzansi, the beach is where we breathe, bond and bask in the sun. From sunrise jogs along Durban’s promenade to sunset braais in Jeffreys Bay, the ocean is intricately woven into our identity. Conversely, winter wonderlands beckon with their promise of snow adventures. The same sense of adventure, family bonding and joy that characterise a seaside holiday can also be found halfway across the world on the slopes of the Alps or in Japan’s snow-dusted villages. If you are still grappling with the decision between a beach…