Innholdsfortegnelse for 2026-01-17 i Saturday Star

​ For many South African parents, the start of a new school year is a mix of excitement and financial stress. Rising costs for uniforms, stationery, transport and school fees mean families are rethinking how they prepare for the year. Mpumi Mavi, whose son is entering Grade 10, said that she has had to change how she buys school supplies this year. She explained that she only purchased what her son will need in the first half of the year. “This year, I bought only the items that he will need for the first six months instead of everything for the year at once.” When it comes to uniforms, she said that her usual approach has had to change. “I usually buy a new uniform at the beginning of the…

If your jaw is still firmly on the floor after that His & Hers finale, you’re not alone. Netflix’s latest viral hit has mastered the art of the “wait, what?!” ending, leaving us all frantically scrolling through TikTok to see if there were clues we missed. If you binge-watched the series in one day, you’re probably looking for another one that will leave you saying, “I didn’t see that coming.” Here are five limited series to put on your watchlist if you’re looking for that unimaginable ending. Behind Her Eyes This is arguably the most “viral” twist we’ve seen in recent years. What starts as a moody, slightly uncomfortable love triangle between a single mom, her handsome boss, and his mysterious wife slowly morphs into something much more sinister. By…

ActionSA has announced that its Ekurhuleni mayoral candidate, Councillor Xolani Khumalo, will voluntarily hand himself over to the South African Police Service (Saps) on Monday, January 19, following what the party describes as an intended arrest linked to an alleged assault case. National chairperson Michael Beaumont said the move follows information leaked from within Saps indicating an intention to arrest Khumalo in connection with an incident involving an alleged drug dealer. Beaumont said Khumalo acted proactively after becoming aware of the reports. "Upon reading public reports of an intended arrest, Khumalo proactively arranged a meeting with Saps to establish their intentions in this matter," Beaumont said. According to ActionSA, Khumalo has agreed to hand himself over voluntarily, a decision the party says comes amid what it describes as ongoing harassment…

Are insects the early indicators of a changing climate and what can we learn from their changing behaviour to help us prepare for what’s to come? As communities across South Africa grapple with changing weather patterns, scientists say insects are also providing visible clues about rising temperatures and environmental stress. Professor Cang Hui, a Stellenbosch University academic and holder of the South African Research Chair in Mathematical and Physical Biosciences, said public observations of changing insect activity are consistent with well-established ecological responses to heat. “Insects are ectotherms, meaning their body temperature, metabolism and behaviour are tightly linked to ambient temperature,” Hui explained. “As temperatures rise, many species initially become more active and reproduce faster, but only up to a thermal limit. Beyond that, prolonged heat becomes physiologically stressful.” Residents…

On January 9 and 10, fabric London, the iconic electronic music brand, delivered a transformative experience for dance music enthusiasts in South Africa, wrapping up two explosive events that highlighted the region's vibrant electronic scene. Both Johannesburg and Cape Town pulsated with energy as crowds danced to the beats of international and local talent, solidifying fabric's legacy in the global electronic music landscape. The Johannesburg event, held at the renowned AND Club and Carfax, was a full three-floor takeover in partnership with the esteemed techno promoters TOYTOY. The festivities ran deep into the night, creating an electrifying atmosphere from the very first act. South African house legend Vinny da Vinci headlined alongside a carefully curated lineup that included Abby Nurock, Avi Subban, Black Lake, Bongani Zulu, Cornelius SA, Illing, Karmerr,…

Cape Town is set to host a significant cultural gathering as Sheer City launches its inaugural edition on Saturday, 17–18 January 2026. The two-day, day-to-night block party, spanning downtown venues from Harrington Street to the City Bowl fringe, celebrates the city’s vibrant creative scene while honouring its LGBTQ+ heritage and commitment to inclusive, dynamic nightlife. Anchored in the Harrington Street district at Harringtons, District, Surfa Rosa, Social, and The Electric, and extending into the City Bowl fringe at Texas, the festival seeks to highlight Cape Town’s dynamic creative scene. Ivan Turanjanin, along with the other Sheer City organisers, shared with the Saturday Star the festival’s essence and the vision behind its creation, offering insight into how the event seeks to merge artistry, music, movement, and community. Turanjanin explains that, beyond…

If we judged cars purely by what they looked like “on paper”, or I guess we’d have to say “on a screen” these days, as it’s no longer 1986, then the new Tata Tiago could easily be deemed as the best car in its class. The thing is, that’s not a very big class, because there really aren’t many cars priced around the R200 000 mark anymore. Spearheading the Indian brand’s local reboot at the entry end of the market, the Tiago costs R184 900, while the more “luxurious” XT manual that we sampled recently, sells for R209 000, and those willing to brave the AMT automated gearbox will part with R224 900 for that version. Its competitors include the Toyota Vitz and Suzuki Celerio twins as well as the…

For the first time since leaving Iran in 2016, I’m allowing myself to feel hope that I might one day return. Ten years ago this week, I was taken from my cell for the last time and, blindfolded, driven out of Tehran’s Evin prison. I had been held hostage there for nearly a year and a half. I was released in a prisoner swop that was co-ordinated with the implementation of the nuclear deal between world powers and Iran. But all of that is ancient history. Today, as Iran is electrified by massive nationwide protests, I find myself wishing I was back in Tehran, the city where I chose to live and work. The one where I was married and intended to reside for years to come. Our life plans…

Taxation issues are a familiar case for SAs. Every taxpayer will always begrudge rises, as the phrase “only certainties in life being death and taxes” will attest, but recently proposed increases feel particularly unwanted. Beyond personal gripes, this new fiscal restructuring could unintentionally amplify risks throughout the private and public sectors. Tax crime is a serious offence where any changes to the system can create new opportunities for evaders and other offenders, which, of course, also spells trouble for the combating anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) capabilities in all areas of society. Now is a pivotal time in South Africa’s tax discourse; with the country juggling FATF greylist delisting, precarious financial health, and a new ‘triple tax’ for the government’s National Health Insurance (NHI) plan. Ensuring strengthened compliance…

The Stormers may have been forced into changes at the back, but they will lean heavily on a settled and powerful pack of forwards as they prepare for a must-win Champions Cup clash against Leicester Tigers at the DHL Stadium today (5.15pm kick-off). With qualification for the Round of 16 on the line, the Cape side knows that dominance up front in the scrums and lineouts must lay the platform for an attack that has to fire if they are to secure a convincing victory. Director of rugby John Dobson has opted for continuity among his forwards, reuniting an in-form loose trio and backing combinations that have already proven their worth this season. In a high-pressure contest against an equally desperate Tigers outfit, the Stormers’ pack will be expected to…

The Sharks conclude their pool commitments in this year’s Champions Cup tournament when they host Clermont at Kings Park this afternoon, and coach JP Pietersen’s selection reflects the diminished challenge expected from the French outfit. While it is a reasonably strong Sharks team that will be on duty, Clermont have only pride to play for — they are winless in the Champions Cup, having lost to the Sale Sharks (14-35) and Glasgow Warriors (21-33), following a heavy 47-10 opening-round loss to Saracens in London. Understandably, Clermont have switched their focus to their domestic "bread and butter" — the Top 14 — and have sent a reserve team to Durban. For the Sharks, a second win (following their 28-23 defeat of Saracens in Durban in mid-December) could secure knockout qualification…

Following their loss at home in Centurion on Thursday night, Pretoria Capitals captain Keshav Maharaj hinted that there could be multiple changes to their playing XI and a possible reshuffle of the batting order ahead of today’s all-important SA20 clash against the Joburg Super Kings. The Pretoria Capitals have largely fielded the same team throughout the tournament, with only sporadic changes, as the likes of star all-rounder Andre Russell joined the side mid-tournament. The team recovered well after starting the competition with back-to-back losses, going on to win three successive matches before Thursday’s fixture against the Paarl Royals at Centurion. They suffered a six-wicket defeat at home to the Royals, a loss that stung deeply and prompted Maharaj to hint at changes in personnel and batting tactics. The skipper highlighted…

As the curtains prepare to fall on AFCON 2025, Egypt and Nigeria find themselves in a position neither team anticipated: grappling for pride in the third-place playoff at Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca today. With hopes of clinching the coveted trophy dashed midweek, both historical heavyweights are now chasing redemption and a bronze medal. In the semi-finals, Egypt suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Senegal. Meanwhile, Nigeria faced heartbreak of their own, losing to host nation Morocco in a tense penalty shootout following a goalless draw after extra time. As they prepare to go head-to-head, both sides will aim to shake off their disappointment and exit the continental competition with a commendable finish. Despite their semi-final setback, Nigeria has consistently demonstrated potential throughout the tournament. The Super Eagles stormed into…

For many school leavers, the phrase “I’m thinking of taking a gap year” can send shivers down the spine of parents still harbouring a belief in clear-cut paths to adulthood. But gap years have transformed from an uncertain leap into the unknown into a widely accepted, enriched experience that combines travel, volunteer opportunities, skill development and cultural immersion. The emerging trend means that today’s young adventurers are not merely contemplating the most popular travel destinations but are, instead, actively shaping their futures through diverse experiences. As we delve into 2026, several destinations are benchmarked as the best places for gap year exploration, each offering unique opportunities for growth, fulfilment and adventure. A gateway to adventure and culture – Thailand: This veritable paradise has become the go-to destination for young travellers…

Families are becoming increasingly estranged. Siblings stop speaking to one another, and in some cases, parents and children disown each other altogether. If the 21st century is defined by anything culturally, it may be the rise of family rifts, particularly those playing out in the public eye. Family splitting appears to be a growing trend, and it is often as painful as it is visible. There can be no greater hurt than being disowned or mistreated by a family member. It cuts to the core of who we are as human beings. We did not evolve to survive alone, and when family bonds break, the pain can feel deeply primal. For most of human history, being rejected by one’s family or tribe meant death. It signified the loss of protection,…

Leonardo DiCaprio may not have taken home the Best Actor award at the 2026 Golden Globes, but he absolutely conquered the internet. Forget the red carpet poses and the formal acceptance speeches. The real magic happened during a commercial break, and thanks to some eagle-eyed attendees and quick-thinking journalists, we got a rare glimpse into a side of the actor we rarely see. We are talking about animated, expressive, and downright goofy. The clip that has everyone buzzing shows a highly energetic DiCaprio in conversation with someone off-camera. While the identity of the person he was chatting with is still unknown, the content of the conversation is pure gold. Our favourite leading man was seen pointing, laughing, and doing what can only be described as a wonderfully over-the-top impersonation. The…

THE euphoria following one of the country’s best-ever matric pass rates has been tempered by the harsh reality that high marks do not guarantee a place at university. In Johannesburg, universities are already under intense pressure as the 2026 academic year approaches. The University of Johannesburg (UJ) processed 450 000 applications for its first-year intake of 11 200 students, while Wits University received 160 000 applications for about 5 800 places. Across the country, the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) received 326 546 applications for 9 000 first-year places. At the University of Cape Town (UCT), 102 182 applications were submitted for 4 000 places, while the University of the Western Cape (UWC) received more than 177 000 applications for just 4 715 spots. “It's going to be absolutely catastrophic,” said…

Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie faces an investigation by Public Protector Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka for his decision to stop artist Gabrielle Goliath from participating in the 2026 Venice Biennale. DA MP and the party’s spokesperson on sport, arts and culture Leah Potgieter has asked Gcaleka to probe after McKenzie withdrew South Africa’s official submission to the 2026 Venice Biennale after a lawful, independent selection process had already been finalised. She said the Public Protector should investigate whether McKenzie’s conduct amounts to maladministration, an abuse or unjustifiable exercise of power, and whether an act or omission by a person performing a public function resulted in unlawful or improper prejudice to others. The Public Protector yesterday confirmed receipt of the complaint and stated that the matter is being processed in…

In an extraordinary display of canine intelligence, a shelter dog named Dawson escaped from the Huntington Cabell Wayne Animal Shelter in West Virginia by unlocking his enclosure and manipulating the front door lock with his teeth. The remarkable incident began around 2:30 a.m. on January 4, when surveillance cameras captured the 5-year-old pit bull mix pushing open his gated enclosure, then standing on his hind legs at the front door where he gnawed on the lock until it turned, allowing him to slip quietly into the night. “We just thought the last person had forgotten to lock the door, which would be very unusual,” said Courtney Proctor Cross, the shelter director. The facility was hosting an adoption event and didn’t immediately notice Dawson’s absence among the approximately 130 dogs housed…

The Independent Examinations Board (IEB) has recently clarified its community service requirements, introducing a clearer distinction between active and passive volunteering. While the intention is to deepen learners’ engagement with service, the change has raised questions about what “counts” and what truly matters. Under the updated guidelines, learners must complete 20 hours of service, with only 5 hours permitted as “passive” volunteering – activities such as collecting donations, packing items, or dropping off goods. The remaining 15 hours must be active, involving hands-on participation, interaction, or skill-based contribution. This shift makes sense fundamentally. Volunteering is designed to foster empathy, responsibility, teamwork and social awareness – values best learned through direct involvement. However, it’s equally important to understand the broader ecosystem of volunteering, and why learners should continue contributing beyond their…

As she nears two major milestones, her 50th birthday and 30 years in music, celebrated musician Thandiswa Mazwai is transforming reflection into purposeful action. Mazwai shares thrilling details about her inaugural Sankofa Heritage Festival, a cultural gathering celebrating memory, African heritage, and collective restoration, set for Saturday, February 28, at Carnival City. She tells the Saturday Star that Sankofa is “both deeply personal and expansively communal.” “I’m not getting any younger, and I wanted to create a space that would in some way house my legacy,” she says. Long known for weaving history, activism, and spirituality into her work, she describes the festival as another extension of her passion for “memory, heritage, and archive” and a way to open doors for other cultural workers. Though this is its first edition,…

In an astonishing turn of events in Lephalale, Limpopo, a couple’s dream of owning a game farm turned into a legal battle due to misleading marketing practices. Juan and Freda Scholtz placed a substantial bid for a picturesque game farm, Ba Batle, only to discover that crucial images used to promote it, including a dam with a crocodile, were not even part of the property they purchased. The couple, lured by the allure of the supposed amenities depicted in the promotional material from Root X Africa Auctioneers CC, won the auction on June 12, 2022, with a bid of R6.6 million, backed by a hefty deposit of R660 000. They also paid an auctioneer’s commission of R569 250. However, an unanticipated stark reality awaited them just days after the auction…

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has announced the recall of 372 Volvo EX30 vehicles in South Africa after a potential safety defect was identified in the vehicles’ high-voltage battery system. The recall follows a notification from Volvo Car South Africa indicating that, in rare cases, the battery may overheat when charged to high levels, potentially leading to a thermal event and posing a fire risk. According to the NCC, the affected vehicles include certain EX30 Single Motor Extended Range and Twin Motor Performance models from the 2024 to 2026 model years, sold in Gauteng from December 29, 2025. “The National Consumer Commission (NCC) notifies consumers about a recall of 372 Volvo EX30 vehicles, as notified by Volvo Car South Africa. This recall affects certain EX30 Single Motor Extended Range and…

US PRESIDENT Donald Trump is weighing military action in Iran over the state’s crackdown on protesters. Reports suggest that more than 600 people have been killed since the protests began in late December, with the US president saying the US military is now “looking at some very strong options”. Trump has not yet elaborated on what these options are and has said that Iranian officials, keen to avoid a war with the US, had called him “to negotiate”. But he added that the US “may have to act before a meeting” if the deadly crackdown continues. There is a wide spectrum of measures available to Washington should it decide to intervene in Iran. These range from diplomatic condemnation and an expanded sanctions regime, to cyber operations and military strikes. However,…

Apart from the obvious ones, such as saving more, updating your will, and ensuring your loved ones are protected if you were to die suddenly, here are seven practical ways to improve your financial (and overall) wellbeing and reduce money worries in the year ahead. Know where your money is going It takes considerable effort to stick faithfully to a monthly budget and track expenditure down to the nearest cent. I think more people profess to do this than are actually doing it. If you’re not that disciplined with your money, there’s a base level of control you need to achieve: know to a fair degree of certainty what you’re spending in the broad expense categories – for example, groceries, accommodation, transportation, insurance, services, entertainment, and savings. It’s also important…

January often brings a sharp focus on spending. For many South Africans, Januworry means scrutinising every rand - including what gets taken out of your bank account in monthly fees, penalty charges and add-ons that may not deliver real value. Although dated, research from the Competition Commission of South Africa shows that bank fees rise sharply as account tiers increase, while the practical benefits often do not increase at the same pace for most users. This finding is also anecdotally backed up by the FinScope Consumer South Africa survey from 2023, which finds that many banked adults rarely use accounts fully or maintain low balances. What the research says about bank pricing The Competition Commission’s Banking Market Inquiry between 2017 and 2019 examined retail banking fees and found that many…

The Springbok Women’s Sevens will not only have to cope with the pressure of trying to overcome the next hurdle on their mission to regain their core status on the world series, but with three group opponents with different playing styles and strengths in the HSBC SVNS 3 tournament in Dubai this weekend. The Bok Women boast a settled, experienced team that should be able to cope with anything their rivals throw at them. They also have recent high-level sevens tournament experience from their victorious Rugby Africa Women’s Sevens campaign. SA coach Cecil Afrika feels that they are well-prepared for the challenge at the Sevens Stadium where they will face Mexico, Czechia and Thailand in Pool A. “It is going to be an interesting pool, as all of Mexico, Czechia…

Organisers of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028 received an overwhelming response, with more than 1.5 million registrations for the ticket draw in the first 24 hours of the window opening, despite the Games being more than two years away. They say there have been more registrations for the LA28 Games on the first day than the Tokyo, Paris and Milan Winter Olympics combined, with interest from fans in more than 150 countries. “The Olympic Games returning to Los Angeles in 2028 is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to witness history,” said LA28 chairperson and president Casey Wasserman in a statement. “The spirit of the LA28 Games is now officially ignited around the world, and fans have already shown up in record-breaking numbers just one day into our…

Orlando Pirates midfielder Selaelo Rasebotja has reinforced the club’s all-in mentality ahead of the second round of the season, insisting the Buccaneers remain committed to challenging for every trophy still on offer. Speaking at the 2026 Nedbank Cup draw on Thursday, Rasebotja underlined Pirates’ competitive mindset after they were paired with Tshakuma Tsha Madzivhandila, a side currently campaigning in the ABC Motsepe League. “Pirates play every competition to win it so we’re going to do our best this time as well and hopefully we can win it,” said Rasebotja. The Sea Robbers return to domestic action sitting top of the Betway Premiership, holding a two-point advantage over second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns while also boasting a game in hand – a position that has sharpened belief within the squad. Pirates’ league form…

Why 2026 is the year to ditch ‘revenge travel’ After a few years of “revenge travel” characterised by a frenzy of many small trips, travellers are now feeling “travel fatigue”. The term “revenge travel” emerged in late 2021/early 2022 after lockdowns eased, signifying a compensatory surge in trips following cancelled plans, missed family events and a strong desire for freedom and a return to normalcy. KAYAK’s recently released 2026 Travel Trends Forecast indicates a change in travel habits: travellers are moving away from frequent, short trips in favour of a single, highly intentional and longer journey. International travel plans have slipped below an average of two trips per person for the first time since 2023, with people now choosing to “go big” once rather than “go often”. Reports from Explore…

With 2026 now officially underway, travel enthusiasts are busy planning their next adventures. Based on recent data from Condé Nast Traveller, several cities are emerging as the most-booked travel spots for the year. Here’s a closer look at these vibrant locations and what makes them irresistible. Bangkok, Thailand: Bangkok is a city that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern excitement. Known for its stunning temples, such as the Grand Palace, Wat Arun and Wat Pho, Bangkok offers a rich cultural experience. The city is also famous for its world-class street food, bustling markets like Chatuchak and floating markets, and vibrant nightlife. Why you should visit Cultural highlights: The Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha are must-see attractions, while Wat Pho is home to a massive reclining Buddha statue and traditional…

Last week, the influencer world was rocked when reports began circulating that Desmond Scott and his wife, Kristy Scott, were heading for a divorce. Not long after the news of their split emerged, Desmond took to his Instagram Stories to address the situation directly, releasing a detailed statement about the end of their marriage. “I want to begin by apologising to Kristy, our family, and everyone who has been impacted by the public attention surrounding this situation,” he wrote. “I know this news has been disappointing for many, and I’m truly sorry for the hurt it has caused.” Initial reports indicated that Kristy had filed for divorce, with allegations of infidelity surfacing shortly after news of the separation broke. At the time, neither Desmond nor Kristy publicly commented, leaving the…

Josh Safdie’s sports comedy-drama Marty Supreme stole the spotlight this week after Timothée Chalamet won Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy at the 2026 Golden Globe Awards. Interestingly, Chalamet also recently took Best Actor honours at the 31st Critics’ Choice Awards. Given the film’s success, I wouldn’t be surprised if there is a surge in cinema attendance this week. Following Marty Mauser (Chalamet), a young hustler, the story unfolds in the underground world of 1950s table tennis. Marty fights for respect in a sport that no one takes seriously, a fight where ambition, obsession and survival ultimately collide. Sharp and dangerous, the narrative is surprisingly relevant to modern discussions surrounding masculinity. The stellar cast deserves equal praise, featuring supporting performances from Gwyneth Paltrow, Odessa A’zion,…

Five people accused of defrauding a company of more than R2.3 million in a municipal water project tender appeared in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court this week, following an investigation by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks). According to Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Lethunya Mmuroa, the accused, Unkhonto Maropola, 36, Kgopotso Maopola, 30, Johannes Sathekge, 37, Kgaugelo Malebana, 32, and Kgopotso Mohlake, 35, face charges linked to an alleged fraud involving a Polokwane Local Municipality tender awarded in 2023. The Hawks arrested the suspects on January 13 and 14, after they handed themselves over to the Polokwane-based Serious Commercial Crime Investigation Unit. They appeared in court on January 15. Police allege the scheme was orchestrated after Maropola, who had been facilitating the tender process at the municipality, was removed from…

Crime Intelligence head Dumisani Khumalo yesterday dismissed a suggestion that he was involved in a project of state capture when he was arrested last year with six of his colleagues over the appointment of an official in his division. Testifying before the Ad Hoc Committee, Khumalo stated that he was simply implementing the recommendations from the Zondo Commission pertaining to his division. “But in terms of me being involved in capturing the state, it's a big no,” he said. Khumalo was responding to ANC MP Khusela Sangoni-Diko, who stated that Investigative Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) head Andrea Johnson had testified that the case brought against him was not a purely labour matter as the appointment of Brigadier Dineo Mokwele in a senior position was allegedly part and parcel of an…

Treverton College’s Class of 2025 has achieved a 100% matric pass rate, recording strong results in the latest Independent Examinations Board (IEB) examinations. The school confirmed that the 2025 cohort achieved 64 distinctions and an 83.3% Bachelor’s Degree pass rate, reflecting consistent performance across subjects. Learners also outperformed the IEB national average in Afrikaans First Additional Language, isiZulu First Additional Language and Physical Science. Despite the pressures and challenges associated with the matric year, learners remained focused and determined, producing results that reflected both academic achievement and personal growth. As the Class of 2025 prepares to move into the next phase of their lives, the school said learners leave with a solid educational foundation and strong values. “With faith as their guide, the Class of 2025 is encouraged to move…

Just a week into the thrilling sixth season of Big Brother Mzansi, the drama within the Bazozwa house is already palpable. As viewers tune in, they are treated to an early expose of tensions, unexpected alliances, and the potential for romance, all unfolding beneath the watchful eye of the nation. Early Tensions: Who’s Clashing in the Bazozwa House The season kicked off with an immediate discomfort when Thandeka made a suggestion to Didi regarding her skin regimen, recommending the use of retinol. The comment did not resonate well, igniting visible discomfort in Didi, whose existing insecurities about her appearance may have heightened her reaction. The fallout from this interaction revealed the fragile dynamics among housemates, as Didi suspected Thandeka’s remarks were linked to her own feelings about Mmeli, whom Thandeka…

The horizon of cinema looks promising as audiences prepare for a year overflowing with highly anticipated film releases. With sequels, reimagining, and the return of much-loved franchises, 2026 is set to keep movie-goers on the edge of their seats. Mark your calendars, as we delve into the most anticipated titles hitting the big screen in 2026, ordered by their release dates: Scream 7 Release date: February 27. The horror franchise famed for its self-aware twists returns with its seventh instalment. Eager fans anticipate fresh victims and new plot twists as Ghostface evolves, promising high tension and shocking reveals. The Devil Wears Prada 2 Release date: May 1. Nearly two decades later, this fashion drama is back, poised to explore the impact of digital technology on the fashion industry. Anticipate a…

The Porsche Panamera continues to occupy an interesting niche in the Stuttgart-based sports car maker’s line-up. Although not a popular option, it fulfils a need for those seeking a more practical Porsche, which is not an SUV. The Panamera sits low to the ground, even compared to most sedans, fostering a sense of oneness with the road, which many drivers simply don’t get to experience these days. That said, if you don’t like the idea of most other vehicles towering above you, then the Panamera is not for you. The third-generation Panamera, introduced in 2024, is a handsome beast too, at least in our humble opinion. It’s certainly come a long way since that awkwardly proportioned first- generation version. We recently spent a week with the newly launched Panamera GTS…

South Africa is accelerating its electric vehicle (EV) transition, with dozens of charging stations being installed nationwide by both public and private players. This was revealed by the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau during a parliamentary response to Rise Mzansi MP Makashule Gana, who asked about the progress of the 2023 Electric Vehicle White Paper. Gana also asked about potential delays, funding allocations, and other measures the government has taken to support the EV sector beyond the White Paper. “A number of charging stations are being installed by a variety of private and public sector stakeholders. “The Eastern Cape Government’s Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism and Automotive Industry Development Centre Eastern Cape successfully rolled out thirteen universal public EV charging stations across the province…

As citizens around the world prepared to welcome the new year, Iranians began taking to the streets to protest their country’s deepening economic crisis. Spurred by the continued devaluation of the Iranian currency against the US dollar, as well as crippling inflation, the unrest is the latest in years of economic pain and protest. The Iranian regime initially acknowledged the legitimacy of the protesters’ concerns, distributing hopelessly inadequate cash vouchers worth only $7 (about R115) to help with the cost of living. But it’s since taken a much heavier hand. According to the regime’s own figures, as of today, at least 2 000 people have been killed. Protesters bravely continue to take to the streets. Like clockwork last Thursday, the regime rolled out one of its most potent tools of…

Every January, South African families brace themselves for the financial and emotional strain of back-to-school preparations. The 1Life Insurance annual Back-to-School Survey for 2026 confirms what many parents already know: this season is one of the most stressful on the household calendar. A staggering 95% of respondents admitted that preparing for the academic year was stressful, underscoring the emotional toll that education costs continue to place on families. The survey reveals that 80% of households experience financial setbacks during this period, often forcing compromises that undermine long-term wealth-building goals. While this figure is slightly better than last year’s 88%, the reality remains that school uniforms and fees are still the most expensive items for 62% of parents, followed by stationery at 28%, and extramural activities, transport, and food at 9%.…

Your pension savings are critical to your financial future, and when something goes wrong with your pension fund, whether it is delayed payments or incorrect calculations, the Office of Pension Funds Adjudicator says it is there to help resolve disputes. During the 2024/25 financial year, the Office of the Pension Funds Adjudicator says it received 10 331 new complaints, up from 9 177 in the previous year, and disposed of a total of 10 100. The newly appointed Pension Funds Adjudicator, Lebogang Mogashoa, emphasises that every member of a pension fund should be aware of the existence of the Adjudicator’s office, as well as how and when to lodge a complaint if something goes wrong. “The Pension Funds Adjudicator (PFA) is an independent authority established by law in South Africa…

Junior Springbok stars Batho Hlekani and Hashim Pead will enjoy their first starts for the Lions in tonight’s Challenge Cup pool game against Perpignan in the south of France, kick-off is at 7.30pm (SA time). Pead was the hero of the Lions’ win in Durban a fortnight ago when he scored a last-minute try to steal the spoils 23-22 in a United Rugby Championship match. Hlekani, who joined the Lions from the Sharks at the beginning of January, made his debut off the bench last week in the 42-33 Challenge Cup defeat of Lyon at Ellis Park. The powerfully built, abrasive flank earned the Player of the Match award for his impressive efforts, and his reward is a starting place this week. Conspicuous by their absence are Springboks Morne van…

World number one Carlos Alcaraz warned Friday that he was "hungry" to break his Australian Open title drought and become the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam, calling it his primary target in 2026. The world number one from Spain is the title favourite along with two-time defending champion and great rival Jannik Sinner. The Melbourne Park crown is the only one of the four majors that Alcaraz has never won, with his best performances being the quarter-finals in 2024 and 2025. If he goes all the way this year, he will surpass fellow Spaniard Rafael Nadal as the youngest man to win all four majors. Nadal was 24 when he achieved the feat, whereas Alcaraz is currently 22. The 22-year-old Alcaraz, who begins his title assault against…

Four-time world champion Max Verstappen said he’s keen to get to grips with the new car Red Bull unveiled on Thursday for a 2026 Formula One season of massive change. The team unveiled the livery for their new cars before a few hundred guests at Detroit’s Michigan Central Station, less than two months before the season opens in Melbourne on March 7. New rules for 2026 see aerodynamic changes to make cars lighter and smaller along with modifications to engine specifications to make for a greater contribution from electric power in the hybrid units. “There is a lot of unknown, there are big changes in the engine, in the car,” Verstappen said. “Initially I’ll take time to adjust during test days. The motivation is very high. It always takes a…

Michael Carrick has the chance to make a fine first impression during his short-term stint as Manchester United manager by derailing local rivals Manchester City’s Premier League title challenge tomorrow. City have the opportunity to cut the gap on leaders Arsenal to three points at Old Trafford, while United desperately need the points to boost their chances of Champions League football next season. At the other end of the table, Tottenham’s Thomas Frank and West Ham boss Nuno Espirito Santo are fighting to save their jobs as their sides clash in a high-stakes London derby. Carrick faces a true baptism of fire with the Premier League’s top two teams serving as the opponents for his first two matches in charge. “It’s what we live for – big games,” Carrick said…

The CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 has etched its name into the annals of football history, surpassing previous scoring records and showcasing a tournament that celebrates not only competition but the spirit of African football. With an astonishing 120 goals scored ahead of the weekend’s two matches, this edition has definitively claimed the title of the highest-scoring tournament ever, eclipsing the 102-goal benchmark set during the 2019 tournament in Egypt. This remarkable achievement underscores a significant transformation within the game, as teams across the continent have embraced a bold attacking style, blending technical prowess with vibrant confidence. Heavyweights like Senegal, Nigeria, Morocco, and the Ivory Coast have illuminated the tournament with a display of offensive depth. At the same time, emerging talents have captivated audiences by stepping…