Renowned chef Rikku O’Donnchu faces a massive R30million damages claim from Stone Hill Kitchen (SHK), a familyrun restaurant in Montana, USA. SHK alleged that O’Donnchu breached his contract and disclosed their trade secrets to his new employer, Amorette, leading to allegations of fraud and misappropriation of trade documents. In May 2022, the American Arbitration Association ruled in favor of SHK, awarding them $1.6 million in damages, $400,000 in punitive damages, and $65,200 in legal fees. O’Donnchu was absent from all the hearings, whether held in the US or Cape Town.
In South Africa, a complex legal battle involving the Nuveld farmers has escalated with the potential to put numerous officials, including Thoko Didiza, in jail. The dispute began in 2009 when the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform allocated five farms to over 80 beneficiaries, including the Nuveld farmers. Despite their success, the department allegedly took two of their farms earlier this year, leading to a legal battle that resulted in the recent verdict of contempt of court for Didiza and other officials. The situation highlights the challenges of land reform and rural development in a democratic society.