Uncategorized

Latest News in South Africa – Tuesday, 6 September 2022

Uncategorized / September 6, 2022
  • Ramaphosa’s employee allegedly received a cash deposit in Limpopo days before the Phala Phala burglary.
  • A 14-year-old alleges that Tiffany Haddish and Aries Spears molested her and her brother.

Phala Phala: Mystery Sudanese businessman paid $580 000 to Ramaphosa’s farmhand 45 days before theft – News24 (for subscribers)

An unknown Sudanese businessman sent R8 million in cash to an employee of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala farm 45 days before the theft of the same amount, News24 reports. 

“The latest revelations would suggest that Ramaphosa knew about the money more than a month before it was stolen.”

The article further states that Ramaphosa informed the Public Protector that on 25 December 2019 a guy named Mustaf Mohamed Ibrahim Hazim gave money to an employee of his farm near Bela Bela in Limpopo. Read more here

Tiffany Haddish Addresses Child Sexual Abuse Lawsuit – Complex

Tiffany Haddish denies assaulting two minor children for a Funny or Die comedy sketch in 2013. 

According to Complex, a 22-year-old woman sued Haddish and comedian Aries Spears last month, claiming they pushed her to perform sexually explicit sketches at age 14. 

On Monday, Haddish took to Instagram to address the lawsuit. 

“I know people have a bunch of questions,” she wrote. “I get it. I’m right there with you. Unfortunately, because there is an ongoing legal case, there’s very little that I can say right now. But, clearly, while this sketch was intended to be comedic, it wasn’t funny at all – and I deeply regret having agreed to act in it. I really look forward to being able to share a lot more about this situation as soon as I can.” Read more here

Here are the top trending stories of the day. 

Headline: Police identify suspects in Orlando tavern mass shooting – News24

Headline: Energy dept attributes fuel price decrease to lower oil prices stronger rand – EWN

Headline: LeBron James and Drake Sued for $10 Million Over Rights for Hockey Documentary ‘Black Ice’ – Complex

Headline: Harry Styles and Olivia Wilde Walk the Red Carpet Solo In Venice – Elle Magazine

Headline: Pitso Mosimane gushes over Ronaldo’s relationship with Benni McCarthy – TimesLIVE

Weather: Partly cloudy day for most of SA with isolated showers in KZN – News24

Image credit: Gallo Images

Luthando Kolwapi is determined to equip the youth for employment, one book at a time

Uncategorized / August 25, 2022

BY Nkosazana Ngwadla

 

Plettenberg Bay is a seaside town on the Garden Route in the Western Cape. While many have luxurious vacation homes and choose to spend their retirement in ‘Plett’, the sad reality is that there are many who still live in extreme poverty and face high unemployment. 

Luthando Kolwapi, 28, grew up in this part of the world, and although his mother made sure she provided him and his siblings with the best education, the unemployment and racial segregation troubled him. 


“I was always baffled by the high levels of inequality. Unfortunately, the apartheid spatial and economic structure is still strongly present: Where white people are rich and live in suburbs, and black people are poor and live in townships. Therefore, growing up around this environment made me question why this is, and how can I also have the same access to opportunities that my fellow white counterparts did?” Luthando tells us. 

 

Education and Upskilling is the key to success

 

After completing primary school, Luthando was awarded a full scholarship to attend Oakhill School, a private high school in Knysna. “This is where I excelled and valued the importance of independent thought,” he says. 

He then went on to major in International Relations and Public Policy at the University of Cape Town before obtaining his honours degree in political communications. While studying in 2014, Luthando founded Edu-Plett, intending to use skills and education training to equip young people for employment or starting their own businesses. The vision is for the interventions to reduce the high rate of unemployment in South Africa.  

 “So far, the organisation has grown gradually since its inception. We have recruited and trained over 700 participants. We have also offered many skills from agriculture, office administration, community care workers, plumbing skills and many more,” he tells The Fuse. 

 

In 2018, he challenged himself by applying for the prestigious Chevening Scholarship funded by the British Government. 

“Unfortunately, I was rejected for the scholarship. But because I knew how much I wanted this, I decided to apply again the following year in 2019, and that’s when I was approved for the scholarship. I went on to do my master’s degree at the London School of Economics in Media & Communications Governance,” he says proudly. 

“We never talk about the number of rejections we get through our journey, instead we focus heavily on successes. It is critical that we know failure and rejection are part and parcel of success,” Luthando stresses. 

 

Books for Africa 

 

A few years later, Luthando now works at the City of Tshwane in the Mayor’s office as a deputy director within the governance unit. He is responsible for oversight over Tshwane’s Municipal Entities. But with all that he’s accomplished, the poverty and unemployment in this country still bother him. 

Luthando was recently selected for the 2022 Mandela Washington Fellowship and was placed at the University of Minnesota. The objective of the fellowship is to foster developmental relationships with future leaders on the African continent. 


“During my stay in the United States, I had the opportunity to meet with a great organisation, Books for Africa. The organisation remains the largest shipper of donated text and library books to the African continent, shipping over 54 million books to all 55 countries on the African continent since 1988,” Luthando says passionately.  

 

“Last year alone, Books for Africa shipped 3.1 million books, valued at over $26.2 million, and 224 computers and e-readers containing over 885,000 digital books, to 28 African countries. More than $3.1 million was raised last year to ship these books to the students of Africa. We have now formed a relationship and they have committed to donating a container filled with 22 000 books, accompanied by computers,” he adds. 

 

But there’s still more legwork to be done, “The books and computers will be used to set up a youth learning centre. The rest of the books will be donated to schools and libraries. For us to get this donation to South Africa, we need to cover the shipping costs. We are currently fundraising for shipping, setting up costs and operational costs for a year. Therefore, we need your help by donating to our crowdfunding campaign.” 

 

To donate, visit https://www.backabuddy.co.za/champion/project/edu-plett

 

Get in touch with Luthando: luthandokolwapi@gmail.com 

From small-time KwaDukuza beatboxer to award-winning producer: This is Given Zulu’s story

Uncategorized / August 23, 2022

By Nkosazana Ngwadla

 

Given Zulu was born in the small town of KwaDukuza in the Kwa-Zulu Natal. When boys his age played soccer outside, you would easily find a young Given making music in his mother’s house. But it was only at the age of 14, at North Coast Primary School, that he realised he had the skill to produce/make sounds using his mouth, which later became a big thing during his time at school. Given quickly became the school’s entertainer at talent shows and class assemblies, under his stage name ‘Given Zulu the Beat Box Star’.

 

A little later, Given taught himself how to play the guitar and started incorporating the beatboxing while strumming.

 

“I was on a discovery journey; realising what I could do, learning what I could not, and trying to discover what sounds resonated best with me. That journey is exciting and never-ending,” he tells The Fuse.

 

Moving on up!

 

After completing matric, with the guidance of his mother Pretty Jabu Zulu, Given attempted Architectural studies at the University of Johannesburg, “but after just one year I obviously dropped out, it just wasn’t for me. So, instead, I registered myself at Damelin College for sound engineering and graduated in 2018,” he says.

  

While studying, Given found his sound. His continued study of music, coupled with his late father, Eric Jabulani Zulu’s music collection growing up, gave birth to Given’s passion for African ethnicity. 

 

“I love that true South African sound from artists like Mafikizolo, Johnathan Butler, Hugh Masekela, Jabu Khanyile,” naming a few artists that inspire him. “I call my sound ‘Premium African Music’, its royalty!” he exclaims with beaming pride.

 

It might’ve taken some time and a little convincing, but Pretty couldn’t be prouder of her son, “she’s my biggest fan now, I couldn’t be happier,” says a smiling Given.

 

Turning COVID-19 woes into wins

 

The suspension of social gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic inspired Given to host online shows: Instagram Live Sessions with Given Zulu.

 

He had some of the most celebrated artists of our time, like Ziyon, Thabsie, Kerry 2 Smooth (Jill Scott’s guitarist), Berita, and Brian Temba, to name a few, grace his ‘virtual stage’. The initiative aimed at having creatives render a 30-minute workshop on the music business, craft, and the music itself.

“I can safely say that initiative resulted in many solid connections, and just taught me a lot about the industry. The traction was also great, I’d do it again for sure.”

 

Award-winning producer

 

Today, Given is an award-winning composer, musician, producer, and audio engineer who has worked with the likes of Amanda Black, Ami Faku, DeMogul SA, DJ Ganyani, Kid X, Lungisa Xhamela, Professor, and composed adverts for companies like Capitec, FNB, Momentum and many more.

 

While his knack for sound engineering has seen him work with SABC News programs, which include Morning Live, Kids News, Trendz, Newsroom, Health Talk, The Globe, and African perspective.

 

Given has also scored and sound-designed Choose Life, a documentary which was aired on national television in 2021 – he currently produces library music and radio jingles that have been featured on well-known TV programs like Skeem Saam, Uzalo, and Ingane Yam.

 

“I think it’s important that people follow their dreams. But in following your dreams, you need to upskill yourself as much as possible. Do the necessary studies, research and constantly be in a state of learning.

 

“Comparing yourself to others will only distract you, don’t do it. Stay in your lane, work hard, and have fun, always. Remember that your background should not determine your path but allow it to influence and inspire you – you will be surprised how far that’ll take you,” Given says before dashing off to his home studio.

 

Get in touch with Given at this email address: givenmusicsa@gmail.com


Image Credit: Supplied 

Top News of the Day: Police Minister addresses weekend shootings | Busisiwe Lurayi passed away suddenly on Sunday

Morning Newsletter, Newsroom, Uncategorized / July 12, 2022
  • Minister Bheki Cele claims the weekend shootings are not acts of terrorism.
  • The actor who played Tumi in How to Ruin Christmas died suddenly on Sunday. 
  • Boks face crucial lessons in the second test line-up.

Weekend tavern shootings were coincidental, not co-ordinated: Cele – TimesLIVE

Bheki Cele, the minister of police, said on Monday that the weekend shootings in Soweto, Katlehong, and Pietermaritzburg did not seem to be premeditated or acts of terrorism.

Bheki Cele addressed the residents of Soweto with the following statement: “There is that thing [allegations] that it could have been a co-ordinated weekend. We don’t have that information as police …. We had separate issues, especially the Pietermaritzburg one, Nomzamo one and the Katlehong one. They happened in shebeens, but we believe that they coincided rather than [were] co-ordinated,” said Cele.  

Cele informed the community that the police would be more visible, conduct operations, and search informal settlements for firearms. Read more here

Busisiwe Lurayi, Star of Netflix Comedy Series How to Ruin Christmas, Dies ‘Suddenly’ at 36 – People

Sunday, Busisiwe Lurayi, who played Tumi on the Netflix comedy series How to Ruin Christmas, died at her home.

The family of Lurayi and Eye Media Artists Agency issued a statement announcing her death.

“Busisiwe passed away suddenly and was pronounced dead at her residence on Sunday 10.07.2022 by medical personnel.” At this time, the cause of death is uncertain while the family awaits autopsy findings. Read more here

Springboks remain positive despite Wales shocker: ‘We got a lot of answers’ – News24

The Springboks are taking positives from their defeat to Wales last weekend despite the result.

“We are fortunate in that we have so many quality players. If you look at this squad of 42, we’ve got a lot of confidence in all of these players,” said assistant coach Deon Davids.

David feels that there is plenty of potential and “ability,” and that it is only a question of exposing these players to Test rugby. Read more here

Here are the top trending stories of the day. 

Headline: Mkhwebane says she’s ready to tell her side of the story – TimesLIVE

Headline: ‘I wanted to go into the hole and save him’ – Khayalethu Magadla’s friend, 8, on last moments – News24

Headline: Thembi Kgatlana ruled out as Banyana prepare for Tunisia – Sowetan Live

Headline: ‘Happy’ Pitso not in a hurry for return to dugout: ‘Big coaches like Pep have done that’ – News24

Headline: Kim Kardashian Posted a Series of Steamy PDA Photos Featuring a Shirtless Pete Davidson – Elle Magazine

Weather: Chilly conditions persist on Tuesday – News24

Image credit: Gallo Images

Top News of the Day: 21 killed in weekend of tavern massacre | Banyana Banyana beat Botswana by 1:0

Uncategorized / July 11, 2022
  • South Africans are shocked about the deadly weekend of tavern shootings.
  • Banyana Banyana advances to the quarter-finals.
  • Tumi Tladi, a South African hip-hop artist has died at the age of 30. 

Weekend eruption of tavern massacres shocks South Africa to the core – Daily Maverick

While the nation is still mourning the deaths of 21 youths in an East London tavern last week, another 21 people died over the weekend at three taverns across the country.

According to the Daily Maverick, 15 people died in Emazulwini Tavern in Soweto, 2 died in Katlehong, and 4 died at Mntambo Tavern in Sweetwaters.

“What happened today is proof that there is a broader problem of a lack of effective legislation and effective management of alcohol in the country,” said Maurice Smithers, the executive director of the Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance in South Africa.

Adele Kirsten, who is in charge of Gun Free South Africa, told Daily Maverick that the trend of gun violence in South Africa was not new, but that it was going in a different direction. Read more here

Banyana Banyana beat Botswana to set up Afcon quarter-final against Tunisia – News24

Banyana Banyana dominated Botswana in their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations match on Sunday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco. However, they had to wait until the end of the game to make sure they got all three points.

“Nthabiseng Ronisha Majiya netted from close range in the 80th minute to claim a 1-0 victory for Banyana and ensure Desiree Ellis’ charges end the top of Group C with nine points.” Read more here

South African artist Tumi Tladi, 30, has died – Channel24

Itumeleng George Tladi, also known as Tumi Tladi, a South African rapper, passed away at the age of 30.

Sunday, the family of the hip-hop musician announced his death in a statement to Channel24.

“Son, brother and uncle, Tumi Tladi (30) sadly passed away in the early hours of this morning (10 July 2022) in Johannesburg.” The cause of his death is unknown at this stage. Read more here

Here are the top trending stories of the day. 

Headline: ‘They were killed for nothing’ – family of brothers slain in Nomzamo tavern massacre – News24

Headline: Tributes continue to pour in for SA media icons – Kevin Savage and Barry Ronge – EWN

Headline: Excusing results in the name of RWC development is not good enough – Daily Maverick

Headline: Charles Leclerc sheds months of poor luck with Austria win: ‘I needed that one’ – News24

Headline: Ice-cool Djokovic tames fiery Kyrgios to continue Wimbledon love story – TimesLIVE

Headline: Kim and Khloé Kardashian Wear Stunning Metallic Bikinis to Turks and Caicos – Elle Magazine

Weather: Cloudy and cool conditions on Monday – News24

Image credit: Pixabay

Top News of the Day: Eskom in talks with ex-employees and manufacturers to “deal with crisis” | Petrol hike sparks protests in South Africa

Morning Newsletter, Newsroom, Uncategorized / July 7, 2022
  • Eskom has brought back former employees to mentor and train staff.
  • Protesters in Mbombela block roads as fuel prices hit a record high.
  • Minaj’s husband gets home detention for failing to register as sex offender.

Eskom brings in ex-employees, manufacturers to deal with crisis – News24 (for subscribers)

News24 reports that Eskom, which openly admits it lacks the expertise to run its facilities, is on a mission to rehire former personnel as mentors and trainers.

“Eskom’s chief executive Andre de Ruyter and chief operations officer Jan Oberholzer are frank about Eskom’s lack of capacity, which is a large part of the downward trend in the performance of its generating units.” 

The article further states that Eskom is finally bringing in original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to do maintenance on portions of its factories where its engineers and craftsmen are struggling. Read more here 

Key South African trade route blocked as fuel costs surge – Business Tech 

Protesters in Mbombela used trucks to block roads, including a key route that connects the country to Mozambique. They were upset that fuel prices had reached a new high.

According to Business Tech, “the road between Mbombela, 350 kilometers (217 miles) east of Johannesburg, and White River has been obstructed by parked trucks, as is the N4 highway connecting the city to the border with Mozambique and the port of Maputo”.

Protesters have also blocked multiple entry points to Kruger National Park. Read more here 

Nicki Minaj’s Husband Sentenced to Probation After Failing to Register as Sex Offender – Billboard

On Wednesday, Nicki Minaj’s husband was given probation and home detention in Los Angeles for not registering as a sex offender.

According to Billboard, Kenneth Petty, who is 44 years old, was also given a fine of $55,000 as part of his sentence, which also includes three years of probation and a year of home detention. Last year, Petty pleaded guilty to not registering as a sex offender in the state of California. 

Jennifer Hough, the 16-year-old girl Petty tried to rape, sued Minaj and Petty last year for “witness intimidation, intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligent infliction of emotional distress, harassment, assault, battery, sexual assault, and sexual harassment.” Read more here

Here are the top trending stories of the day. 

Headline: Hillary Gardee murder accused change their minds and apply for bail – Times Live

Headline: Perhaps the activist was a jerk to Cele, but you know who should be upset? – Times Live (for subscribers)

Headline: Austria offers Verstappen comfort of ‘home’ after Silverstone – EWN

Headline: Elon Musk fathered twins with one of his executives last year – report – The Guardian

Headline: Nadal defies injury to set up Wimbledon semi-final against Kyrgios – News24

Weather: Clear skies again for SA on Thursday – News24

Image credit: Pixabay

Close Bitnami banner
Bitnami