Siya Kolisi is a South African rugby player who led the national team to victory in the 2019 Rugby World Cup, becoming the first black captain of the team. He has become a symbol of hope and inspiration in the sport, and his journey is marked by resilience and triumph. Despite embarking on a new chapter of his career playing for French club Racing 92, Kolisi remains rooted in his South African roots and continues to hold his family and homeland close to his heart.
Hout Bay is using stateoftheart trenchless pipecracking technology to replace over 3,300 meters of outdated water pipes, showcasing the city’s dedication to adopting innovative solutions to tackle its infrastructural hurdles. The technology is costeffective, reduces disturbances, and facilitates quicker completion times, making it a practical choice for the world with scarce resources. The project is expected to be accomplished by June 2024, signifying another step towards urban regeneration and a sustainable future.
In Nyanga, the funeral of a notorious gang member named Magwala turned disturbing when his gang members fired 549 bullets into the air in a symbolic gunfire salute. This macabre tribute highlighted the pervasive gun violence and the threat it poses to the safety and wellbeing of the community. The problem of illegal firearms continues to afflict communities like Nyanga, but the city and SAPS are making strides to tackle this problem and combat crime.
South African Police Service’s AntiSmuggling Unit apprehended a suspected smuggler in a meticulously planned operation. The arrest highlighted the widespread issue of crossborder smuggling, which affects both South Africa and the African continent. Investigations revealed the suspect’s engagement in a largescale smuggling operation, and the accused will stand trial for possession of a stolen motor vehicle and fraudulent documents. The arrest serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle against organized crime, and the SAPS remains committed to the fight for justice.
Patricia De Lille, leader of the GOOD Party, has proposed increasing South Africa’s Basic Income Grant from R350 to roughly R1,000 to help those living in poverty. She also advocates for government reformation, professionalisation of the public service, eradication of corruption, and implementation of tax amendments. De Lille’s manifesto also emphasizes investment in public infrastructure and affordable, basic services, and financial support for small businesses. The proposal aims to rebalance society and provide a safety net for those struggling with poverty while revitalizing the South African economy.
The Springbok rugby team may have a new captain, as there are rumours that Siya Kolisi may not continue in the role. Four players have emerged as potential successors Eben Etzebeth, Bongi Mbonambi, Lukhanyo Am, and Elrigh Louw each with unique strengths and potential implications. This change in leadership represents a transformative phase in South African rugby, with the selection of the next captain greatly influencing the team’s dynamics and performance.
Ready for an exciting adventure into the world of cannabis? Look no further than the Cannabis Expo, happening from March 2224, 2024. This dynamic gathering offers educational panels, industry discussions, a music festival, cannabis food market, and over 1,000 products and services on display. Experience the thrill of the Speed Rolling Competition and join the celebration of this versatile plant. Get your tickets online or at the entrance and embark on a journey into the heart of the cannabis industry.
Coert Botha, a man of 47 years, has been sentenced to 66 years in jail for 13 counts of sexual offences, including rape, against boys aged between 9 and 14. This verdict highlights the larger problem of sexual offences in South Africa, but serves as an optimistic sign of progress towards eliminating such crimes. The court’s decision was praised, recognizing the commitment of the SAPS towards justice for victims of sexual crimes, and emphasizing the importance of public engagement in enhancing their services and ensuring community safety.
The Universal Ballot Template (UBT) is a voting aid designed for individuals with disabilities or special needs, enabling them to cast a confidential and autonomous vote. This innovative solution was devised by the South African Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in collaboration with the South African National Council for the Blind (SANCB). The UBT incorporates a hard black plastic design with high contrast, into which a standard ballot paper can be inserted, allowing the voter to cast a vote in a simple and seamless process while maintaining the voting integrity. The UBT stands as a testament to the power of innovation to overcome hurdles and ensure that the fundamental pillar of democracy, the right to vote, is genuinely universal.
Lerato “Lira” Molapo, the beloved Afrosoul artist, suffered a stroke in 2022 that left fans worried if they would ever see her perform again. However, in 2024, she made an impressive comeback at Bassline Fest, unveiling a “new” Lira after a twoyear hiatus. Her transformation, triggered by the stroke, led to a deep metamorphosis that she now sees as bidding goodbye to the “old Lira.” Her inspiring story of resilience and personal transformation moves millions.
Springbok veteran Eben Etzebeth was named SA Rugby’s Player of the Year for the second year in a row, a rare achievement in South African rugby history. Along with Etzebeth, Canan Moodie and Libbie Janse van Rensburg also secured repeated triumphs in the Young Player of the Year and Springbok Women and Provincial Player of the Year categories, respectively. The evening was filled with praise for the Springboks, Jacques Nienaber, and other notable players, as well as fans who honored Cheslin Kolbe for his memorable play in the RWC quarterfinal.
Australian billionaire Clive Palmer has announced plans to construct a replica of the Titanic, named Titanic II, which will be “far, far superior than the original”. The project has been in the works for over a decade and faced multiple obstacles, but construction is set to begin in 2022 with the inaugural sail scheduled for June 2027. The project is more than just a display of wealth, but a tribute to human ambition and progress.
Tsar and Jamil, two lion brothers, were rescued from a Ukrainian zoo by Born Free charity and underwent a lengthy rehabilitation process before finally reaching their permanent home at the Shamwari Big Cat Sanctuary in South Africa. Their journey to freedom is a story of endurance and the combined initiative of global wildlife supporters. This tale serves as a reminder of the vital role that wildlife charities play in safeguarding and conserving endangered species, and the fundamental right of every living creature to live freely in their natural habitat.
The search for South Africa’s Deputy Public Protector, a role critical to maintaining democracy and ensuring accountability, is filled with power struggles and controversy. Seven candidates underwent a rigorous interview process, including scrutiny on whistleblower protection and understanding the Public Protector’s office’s mandate. The prestigious but demanding role requires stringent qualifications and experience and offers an attractive compensation package. The Justice and Correctional Services Committee is set to engage in crucial deliberations to appoint a candidate who can uphold the integrity of South Africa’s democracy and public offices.
The Springboks, South Africa’s national rugby team, are determined to continue their winning streak with a focus on sustained victory and adapting to the constantly changing world of rugby. Led by Rassie Erasmus and newly appointed assistant coach Tony Brown, the team is revolutionizing their attacking strategy while maintaining their timehonored techniques including setpiece dominance, physical grit, and solid defense. With an overhaul of the coaching and management team, the Springboks are ushering in an exciting new era in South African rugby.
Showmax and Multichoice are standing firm in their decision to broadcast the controversial docuseries ‘Tracking Thabo Bester’ despite legal pressure from the couple featured in the series. The series chronicles Bester’s daring exploits, including his jailbreak from prison, and raises debates surrounding personal rights and journalistic ethics. Showmax and Multichoice argue that they have taken all necessary steps to ensure the documentary aligns with journalistic integrity and ethical reporting, and uphold the public’s right to watch and form their own opinions.