Marshall Dlamini, the former security head for the Economic Freedom Fighters, is on trial for assaulting a warrant officer during the State of the Nation address in 2019. The court is struggling with the sentencing, with suggestions ranging from community service to a threeyear sentence. The outcome will have implications beyond Dlamini’s personal fate, with the public’s trust in the justice system at stake. The decision will resonate throughout South Africa’s justice system’s historical records, and it is hoped that justice will be upheld.
South African smallscale fishermen are standing up against TotalEnergies’ offshore oil and gas exploration plans amid fears that they will ruin their livelihoods. Led by fisherman Sifiso Ntsunguzi, the community is concerned about the environmental impact of the proposed sites and the potential loss of fish, which is their main source of food and income. Environmental group Green Connection has sued the government over TotalEnergies’ environmental authorisation, and the company’s promises to reach netzero carbon emissions by 2050 are being scrutinised. The conflict highlights the challenges of balancing economic development with environmental preservation.
The Manor at Nederburg is a toprated dining establishment in South Africa’s Cape Winelands, offering outstanding cuisine, exceptional wines, and picturesque views. Headed by Chef Linda Trautmann, the menu features mouthwateringly tasty dishes, from smoked hake croquettes to Amarula and tonka bean crème brûlée. The restaurant is familyfriendly and accessible to guests of all abilities, making it a gastronomic sanctuary for everyone. Book your table today and experience the warmth of The Manor at Nederburg.
South Africa is set to receive an unexpected snowfall with up to 10cm predicted in various regions, including the Cape Provinces, Lesotho, and neighbouring Namibia. The snow is expected to fall as early as Saturday in some areas and continue into next week in others. This unusual weather event presents a unique opportunity for residents to enjoy a winter wonderland and experience the rare occurrence of African snow.
South African businesses and brands are offering a variety of incentives like free gourmet treats, discounts and deals, and even discounted Uber rides to encourage citizens to participate in the general elections and exercise their right to vote. The hospitality industry is also joining in, with Southern Sun offering a 20% discount for those planning a vacation around the election period. This innovative approach to promoting voter participation not only encourages citizens to engage in democracy but also supports local businesses, fostering a strong sense of community and shared responsibility.
South Africa’s Parliament is a symbol of democracy, offering citizens a platform to engage in nationbuilding and shape the political landscape through their right to vote. The upcoming national and provincial elections coincide with the 30th anniversary of democracy and mark a significant milestone in the nation’s democratic fortitude. Presiding Officers Tsenoli and Masondo inspire citizens to exercise their constitutional right to vote, reminding them that their vote is their voice and chance to select who will represent them. Parliament is more than just a legislative body; it is a guardian of democratic principles, offering a platform for citizens to engage in the mechanisms of nationbuilding.
Advanced airborne surveillance technology, including helicopters and drones, will be used for the National and Provincial elections in Gauteng, South Africa to ensure a smooth and secure electoral process. The National and Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structures will utilize ten advanced, multispecialty airborne surveillance helicopters and drones to contribute invaluable data to security agencies. The mission is to create a safe environment for the citizens of Gauteng to exercise their voting rights, and the media is welcome to observe the process.
The World Rugby U20 Championship is coming back to South Africa with the top Under20 rugby teams competing for the title. Reigning champions France and the Junior Springboks from South Africa will battle it out in different venues such as the Cape Town Stadium and the Athlone Stadium. The matches will commence on June 29th, with playoffs scheduled for July 14th and the ultimate championship match set for July 19th. Spectators can indulge in this international rugby feast at pocketfriendly prices, with children’s tickets costing R35 and adult tickets going for R75.
Discover the hidden gem of South Africa’s Cape Winelands at The Soul Barrel Brewing Co. Their innovative brewing techniques utilize local ingredients to create an authentic South African flavor, earning them the title of Best Beer in Africa at the African Beer Cup. This prestigious competition celebrates the high standards and emerging trends in the beer industry, showcasing the innovation, creativity, and craftsmanship of breweries like The Soul Barrel and Darling Brew. These breweries remind us that the best flavors come from a combination of tradition and innovation, old and new, local and global.
The Natjoints Coordination Centre is a new addition to South Africa’s largest police training institution, designed for information coordination, incident reporting, and quick responses. The NCC boasts stateoftheart technology and will host representatives from 39 government departments and private sector stakeholders within the National Joint Operational Centre. It represents a significant step towards improved coordination and a leap towards bolstered security for all South Africans.
President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a captivating preelection homily in 2024, reflecting on the achievements and challenges of the sixth democratic administration and the path ahead. He praised the Independent Electoral Commission for their meticulous preparations for the election and acknowledged the indispensable role of law enforcement agencies and security services in ensuring a peaceful electoral process. The President highlighted the considerable progress made towards restoring the economy, battling against genderbased violence, and increasing South Africa’s global influence. He urged citizens to renew their commitment to democracy, unite, and work towards creating a more prosperous South Africa.
Soul Barrel Brewing Co., a small artisanal brewery located in South Africa’s Winelands, has become Africa’s foremost beer manufacturer by committing to using only local produce and mastering their craft. Their Live Culture Grand Cru won the Best Beer in Africa accolade at the African Beer Cup, showcasing their complex blend of indigenous wild yeast, locally sourced barley, fynbos, and hops. The brewery’s mission is to foster a topnotch South African beer culture and serve as a reminder of the power of local enterprises and commitment to craftsmanship, quality, and local farming.
South Africa’s government has passed two important laws the National Council on GenderBased Violence and Femicide Bill and the National Prosecuting Authority Amendment Bill to combat corruption and genderbased violence. The National Council on GBVF will coordinate efforts to tackle the crisis, while the NPA Amendment Bill grants permanent status to the Investigating Directorate against Corruption to improve the fight against corruption. These legislative advancements represent the government’s commitment to creating a more equitable society, and it is a shared responsibility of all stakeholders to back these efforts.
South Africa’s exhibit, ‘Cape Floral Kingdom,’ won a gold medal, the ‘Best Exhibit in the Great Pavilion,’ and the ‘Best New Design Award’ at the Chelsea Flower Show. The exhibit showcased the unique biodiversity of the Cape area, with over 22,000 plant stems, earning perfect scores from judges. This success highlights South Africa’s horticultural prowess and serves as a tribute to the country’s aesthetic and ecological wealth. The exhibition’s impact encourages the preservation and celebration of South Africa’s natural legacy.
South Africa’s upcoming general election is facing a crisis of existence for the African National Congress (ANC) as public dissatisfaction risks disrupting its uninterrupted majority rule. Unemployment, xenophobia, corruption, infrastructure problems, and crime are the major issues affecting the country. The election will serve as an indicator of the dreams, ambitions, and worries of a country positioned at a socioeconomic and political junction.
South Africa’s Fynbos plant species won the gold medal at the 2024 Chelsea Flower Show, earning the country its 37th top award for fynbos displays since 1976. The fynbos species are a significant source of revenue through exports, generating around R85 million in revenue. The success at Chelsea and the thriving fynbos industry narrate a deeply inspiring story of South Africa where the beauty of nature intertwines with the lives of the communities that cultivate it, culminating in a harmonious blend of growth, diversity, and prosperity that transcends national boundaries.