A KwaZulu-Natal couple was startled awake on Monday when they found a venomous black mamba slithering in their bedroom on Mercury Drive, Riet River.

The terrifying moment began when the wife noticed unusual movement in the dim light and discovered the snake dangerously close to their bed. In panic, she alerted her husband, who contacted Reaction Unit South Africa (Rusa) for urgent help.

Rusa’s team responded swiftly to the distress call. Upon their arrival, officer Bryson Bisnath assessed the situation and expertly captured the approximately 1.2-metre-long snake, which is known for its lethal bite and high-speed agility.

The black mamba, a species notorious for its aggressive behaviour when threatened, was safely relocated away from human habitats, preventing any potential tragedy.

In another similar incident in March, a father and daughter from Verulam were stunned when what appeared to be a discarded bicycle tyre turned out to be a 3.2-metre-long black mamba - one of Africa’s most venomous snakes.

The dramatic discovery occurred at a home on Ebony Link Road in Trenance Park, while the father and daughter were cleaning out a shed on their property.

Rusa officers were called to the scene after the pair realised the “tyre” had suddenly come to life.

Prem Balram, of Rusa, explained that the situation unfolded within seconds.

“The homeowner was conducting a cleanup in the shed when his daughter picked up what she believed to be a bicycle tyre lying among items in the structure. The object suddenly moved and slithered deeper into the shed. At that point they realised it was in fact a large snake and immediately requested assistance.”

Bisnath rushed to the property and began searching the cluttered structure where the snake had disappeared.

He located the black mamba inside the shed.

“The snake was safely captured and removed from the premises. Officers also noted that the highly venomous snake was in the process of shedding its skin at the time it was captured.”

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The MK Party has ordered its former national spokesperson, Nhlamulo Ndhlela, to immediately stop using party resources including bank accounts, social media platforms and official communication channels.

In a move announced on Monday, the party confirmed Ndhlela had been removed as both national spokesperson and Member of Parliament with immediate effect during a media briefing led by party president Jacob Zuma and secretary-general Sibonelo Nomvalo.

A letter seen by IOL revealed the dismissal stems from allegations of misconduct, sowing divisions within party ranks and bringing the MK Party into disrepute.

The party gave Ndhlela seven days to return all party property, including documents, devices, passwords, access credentials and his membership card.

“Pending the outcome of the investigation, you are instructed to refrain from representing the party in any official capacity,” the letter stated.

It further ordered him not to access party bank accounts, digital platforms or public media systems while investigations continue.

The letter was also forwarded to Chief Whip Mmabatho Mokoena-Zondi, signalling the seriousness of the party’s crackdown.

But while one political door slammed shut, another opened swiftly.

The party simultaneously unveiled former The Star editor Sifiso Mahlangu as its new national spokesperson, describing him as a seasoned journalist, respected academic and influential media figure expected to strengthen the party’s communication machinery amid intensifying political pressure.

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A 26-year-old man was arrested after Metro Police officers confiscated 2 454 dagga bankies, 208 dagga cigarettes, 800g of unpacked dagga, and 10 medium bags of dagga in Fisantekraal on Monday, May 18, according to Cape Town Metro Police spokesperson Superintendent Ruth Solomons.

Solomons said Metro Police Neighbourhood Safety Officers were on patrol at around midday when they noticed the suspect behaving suspiciously after spotting the marked patrol vehicle.

She said the suspect attempted to flee, but officers apprehended him shortly afterwards.

"He was carrying a black bag and a white bucket, and officers sought permission to conduct a search," said Solomons.

After the search, officers confiscated the quantities of dagga. The suspect was arrested and detained at Durbanville police station for further investigation, Solomons said.

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In a harrowing case that has prompted urgent warnings from police, an 18-year-old girl has been rescued from her alleged abductors and rapists who lured her from Manenberg to Durban, using an Instagram account. 

The ordeal began when the teen's perpetrators, reportedly Pakistani nationals, allegedly used false promises of friendship to entice her to leave home.

After being convinced to take an e-hailing service to Cape Town International Airport, the girl, with special needs, boarded a flight to Durban, unwittingly stepping into a trap that would lead to her assault.

Police say while a case of rape has been opened for investigation, more charges are expected to be added. 

They said the teen said she was also taken to Gqeberha where she was raped. 

“This office confirms that a case of rape was opened at Manenberg SAPS.

"I will be transferred to Gqeberha where the incident occurred, for further investigation,” said police spokesperson, Ndakhe Gwala.

Manenberg SAPS was contacted by the teen’s frantic parents after the abductors lured her from her residence.

With the assistance of her parents, the teen was traced to the location in Durban where she was rescued last week.

Sadly, once she reached her destination, she was raped.

The Cape Argus has approached the teen's parents for comment, who said they conducted their own investigation, which led to the success of their child being found and declined to comment further.

Manenberg Police Station Commander, Brigadier Jayce Naidoo, said the case was an example of how dangerous social media can be. 

Naidoo added that the investigation would probe the involvement of women.

“Recently, an 18-year-old special needs girl was picked up by an Uber in Manenberg, driven to the airport, where she got on a plane destined for Durban, all through social media,” he said.

“So many questions to be asked. There are people that would blame the victim.

“But what if it happens to your child?

“It ended very badly as before we could bring her home, she was raped.

“Police will be investigating a case of rape and other charges could be added as the investigation unfolds.

“The perpetrators include women who were involved with these scams. Be warned.

“Anyone with information can contact Manenberg SAPS at 021 699 9000 or Crime Stop at 0860 010 111.”

He called on parents to be aware and alert of how criminals can utilise social media for crimes.

“Parents, be warned if you are not talking to your children, who is?”

“The 'stranger danger' has taken on a new form, the form of social media.

"The form of conversation that illuminates strangers but is a bigger danger.

“Our young people are targets of syndicates that leave our young people impressed and wowed, luring them into a dark web of social abuse.

“Children will remain silent as they seem to want to handle adult issues, which destroys their fragile lives.

"It seems our young people are dragged into the dark world of social media to be abused by individuals who seem to impress them.

“Parents are the first line of defence and help for children.

“Therefore, a relationship must be kept.

"Parents shouldn't become friends with their children but should remain friends with an open listening ear.”

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The South African government has condemned the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla by Israeli forces, describing the incident as the “illegal abduction” of its nationals.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) said it viewed the incident with “grave concern”, warning that South African citizens may now be detained or imprisoned in Israel following the seizure of the vessel.

“The Government of South Africa notes with grave concern reports that following the illegal seizure of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) bound for Gaza, South African nationals have been abducted in international waters and may now be facing detention/imprisonment in Israel,” the department said.

The flotilla was described by the government as a peaceful humanitarian initiative aimed at drawing international attention to the worsening crisis in Gaza while delivering aid to Palestinians affected by the ongoing conflict.

“It must be underscored that the Flotilla, a civilian-led initiative embarked upon a peaceful and humanitarian mission,” Dirco said.

“Its participants aim to draw attention to the severe and urgent humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people in Gaza and to deliver vital aid to alleviate the widespread suffering of a people living under occupation and genocide.”

South Africa said the developments raised “serious humanitarian, legal and diplomatic concerns” and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to international law and the protection of human rights.

“The safety, security and physical integrity of all unarmed participants aboard the Flotilla, including South African citizens, are of paramount importance,” the department added.

The department further warned that “any forceful detention of these vessels in international waters constitutes a grave breach of international legal norms and fundamental human rights.”

Pretoria said it would engage relevant stakeholders and organisations linked to the flotilla in efforts to secure the release of those affected.

“We will be engaging all relevant stakeholders and organisations liaising with the GSF as part of efforts to secure the safe and immediate release of those affected, while ensuring that their families are kept fully abreast of developments as the situation unfolds,” the department said.

South Africa also called on the international community to ensure the protection of humanitarian missions and adherence to international law.

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The United Rugby Championship (URC) organisers have heeded the complaints of the South African clubs and given them lighter overseas travel loads for the new season, which kicks off on Friday, September 26 this year.

The complete fixture list for the 2026/27 season was released on Tuesday, 128 days before the first match, which is the Stormers away to Connacht. That first weekend sees the Lions hosting Leinster at Ellis Park, the Sharks beginning in Durban against the Ospreys, while the Bulls’ first clash is away against Zebre in Italy.

According to the URC press release, the fixture list has been designed to provide greater balance across the regular season, with a more even spread of home and away fixtures and “an optimised touring model for South African teams, who will each complete three two-game URC tours during the (eight-month) campaign.”

The 2026/27 Fixtures are LIVE 🙌

🗓️ https://t.co/PDfug3wz6y #BKTURC | #URCFixtures pic.twitter.com/EK5dOyy2xP

— BKT United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial) May 19, 2026

The competition will begin with fixtures across Ireland, Italy, South Africa, and Wales on the opening weekend, with all five competing territories in action across the first round. The pick of the opening round sees the 2023 URC champions, Munster, host the 2024 champions, Glasgow Warriors, at Thomond Park on 26 September.

Festive derby rounds will again form a major part of the season, with Rounds 7, 8, and 9 staged across December and early January, while the Race to the Eight will build from Round 13 as the battle for knock-out rugby intensifies.

The format of the competition remains unchanged, with the Top 8 teams progressing to the play-offs. The quarter-finals will begin on Friday, 28 May, with the semi-finals taking place from Saturday, 5 June, before the Grand Final on Saturday, 19 June.

Martin Anayi, URC CEO, said: “After the closest-ever Race to the Eight in 2025/26, we are preparing for another incredibly dramatic URC season.

"The level of competitiveness across the league continues to grow, and we know every round will have a major impact on the battle for Play-Off places, European qualification and, ultimately, the title.”

As local government elections approach, the ANC in the Western Cape is under pressure to finalise its mayoral candidate shortlists.

The party, which has struggled to regain its lost majority since 2009, will meet on Wednesday to review and approve the candidate lists submitted by its regional branches, amid concerns about declining support in the province.

At the meeting, the provincial task team can either rubberstamp the three-name lists sent by the regions, make one or two changes, or overhaul them completely.

The task team’s final lists will then go to the national party structures, which will whittle each down to a single candidate to stand per municipality in the elections.

The elections are scheduled for November 4.

The Dullah Omar region has put forward the following names for mayoral consideration:

• Ndithini Thydo, metro regional chair and the ANC’s opposition leader in the City of Cape Town council;
• Mareldia Chouglay, regional deputy secretary, former civil servant and gender activist; and
• Zelda Tarentaal, ANC Women’s League metro leader and schoolteacher.

A fourth name, Jerimia Thynsman, has been mentioned in party circles but is not part of the official shortlist submitted for approval.

Party insiders said the list was finalised last week ahead of Wednesday’s provincial meeting.

“The PTT will have the option to change the list or add to it,” one source said.

Once approved at provincial level, the Cape Town name will be sent to ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula's office for final approval.

In Drakenstein, the names under consideration are Dan Kotzé, Lumka Taboer and Dolly Peter.

Kotzé is a long-serving ANC councillor in the municipality and part of the party’s caucus leadership.

Taboer is active in regional party structures and internal coordination work, while Peter is known for her community-based political work in the area.

The province will also consider Stellenbosch’s three-name shortlist.

It is unclear who is on this list.

In the Garden Route, George’s shortlist under the Victor Molosi region has also been submitted as well as Saldanha Bay on the West Coast.

The party's spokesperson Sifiso Mtsweni is among the strong contenders.

In Theewaterskloof, Overberg, the names under consideration include:

• Derick Appel, a municipal councillor;
• Bongiwe Mkhwibiso, the party’s chief whip in council; and
• Unathi Spunzi, a regional figure involved in party organisation and community work.

Political analyst Zweli Ndevu said the party is split into rival factions.

"You would expect the ANC to start preparing early with local government elections coming up," he said.

"But the party is moving cautiously because of internal contestation.

"To avoid deepening those divisions, the leadership is holding back and taking a careful approach."

Provincial spokesperson Sifiso Mtsweni confirmed the meeting will take place on Wsdnesday.

He said the ANC is running a "strategic process" to select mayoral candidates for key municipalities, including the City of Cape Town.

He said the party has also consulted local communities on the shortlist.

He said once the task team finalises three candidates per municipality, those lists will go to the ANC’s national office.

The national office will then interview the candidates and choose one to stand for each municipality.

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Kaizer Chiefs have always found a home away from home at Moses Mabhida Stadium this season, which is why there wouldn’t be a better venue to chase one of their best finishes to the season in recent years.

Chiefs will host Chippa United at the iconic World Cup venue in their season finale on Saturday (3pm). A victory from that match would see them end the season with 57 points, the same tally they recorded during their runners-up finish in the 2019/20 season.

Amakhosi will be confident of bagging all three points and finishing the season on a high in Durban. They bagged a crucial 1-0 win in their penultimate game of the season against locals AmaZulu at the same venue last Saturday.

The win over Usuthu ensured that Chiefs had won all five matches in all competitions they played at the venue this season, whether as a home or away team.

As the venue is likely filled with spectators whenever they come into town, coach Cedric Kaze has expressed his gratitude to the fans, saying that they’ve been the fuel behind the team.

“I would say that Moses Mabhida has been very good to us. Durban has been very good to us throughout the season in the Confederation Cup and in the league,” Kaze explained. “The fans are always there. They cheer us on, they give us that extra energy to go that mile above.”

“The only thing that I can say is that I’m very, very humbled by the support that we get from our fans,” he added.

The clash against Chippa could also be a deciding factor in the future of both co-coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef, and some fringe players such as Tashreq Morris.

The future of Kaze and Ben Youssef is set to be under review at the end of the season, as they are in the final two months of their contracts. They were appointed as interim coaches after Nasreddine Nabi’s departure until the end of the season.

There have been reports that the club’s bosses are tossed between parting ways with the duo, as they don’t boast strong coaching pedigrees, while there are also considerations of keeping them beyond the current season due to their secured third-place finish. This finish confirms their qualification for next season's CAF Confederation Cup.

Kaze and Ben Youssef have been vocal about the fact that they’d leave the club ‘happier’ if they qualified for a continental spot, something that they’ve now achieved.

However, the satisfaction could even heighten if they bag the 57-point tally and match the team’s recent best season, which would be a huge improvement from their last two campaigns where they finished outside the Top 8.

To get that result, Kaze knows that they’ll need their 12th man to rally behind them against Chippa United, who’ll be eager for three points as they try to avoid the relegation/promotion play-offs this season.

“We are doing everything on the field to make them happy. I want to make a plea to them to please come out in numbers in our final home game of the season here in Durban,” Kaze said. “They must come out to support the club of their life, and we’ll do everything to put a smile on their faces as well.”

Murder-accused Aletta Rose, 63, was back in the dock on Tuesday at the Bellville Magistrate’s Court, where she demanded a new legal representative who can speak Afrikaans.

Rose is accused of the murder of her sister Constance Scholtz, 79, whom she allegedly beheaded and cut her hands off in March inside her Bellville South home.

Rose was previously convicted of murdering her brother-in-law in 1997.

Rose on Tuesday told the court that she does not want her current legal aid representative to represent her because they don’t speak Afrikaans.

The case was postponed to Thursday for Rose to get an Afrikaans legal representative.

Her nephew and son of the victim, Menno Rose, claims that his aunt is using delaying tactics and showed no remorse.

Speaking to reporters outside the courtroom, he said: “I think it is delay tactics that is being played out in court this 

morning. But from the family’s side and me personally, we have full confidence in the court system and that this issue I think they want to prolong will be sorted out as quickly as possible. We, as a family, believe that the truth will prevail and that justice will also prevail. At this point in time, I don’t think there is any remorse."

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Orlando Pirates’ relatively young squad is a double-edged sword for coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. While he is pleased with their energy and hunger, he laments that their lack of experience can sometimes work against the team.

Pirates have to beat Orbit College in their last game of the season at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday afternoon (3pm kick-off) to win the Betway Premiership, ending a 14-year drought.

Given that fellow title contenders Mamelodi Sundowns wrapped up their league campaign earlier due to continental matters, Pirates went into their penultimate match needing to beat Durban City to be all but crowned champions.

But it wasn’t to be. City held Pirates to a draw at a buzzing Orlando Amstel Arena last Saturday, ensuring that the title race goes down to the wire in Mbombela on Saturday.

☠️ ⏪ 𝗬𝗔𝗗𝗛𝗖𝗧𝗔𝗠 ⏪

🎤 Nkosinathi Sibisi
🆚 @DurbanCity_FC
🏟 Orlando Amstel Arena
🗓️ 16 May 2026

⚫⚪🔴⭐#OrlandoPirates#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/AsokyeYqgw

— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) May 17, 2026

Pirates’ lacklustre performance in front of goal against the Citizens led to the setback. Their attackers failed to be clinical due to lack of timing, awareness of their surroundings, and schoolboy errors.

Ouaddou took note of that, stressing why having a largely youthful squad sometimes works to their advantage, and sometimes against them.

“You must verify, but I think we have the third youngest team in the PSL,” Ouaddou said. “So you have an advantage of having a young team – there’s freshness and a lot of qualities. But sometimes there’s a disadvantage when dealing with these kinds of games of pressure.”

“When you have a young team, you need to keep working. So, I hope that we will respond against Orbit College.”

Ouaddou went all out on youth and unfamiliarity against City. He handed 21-year-old Simphiwe Selepe his first start of the season, while introducing fringe player Abdoulaye Mariko as one of his impact players from the bench.

The Moroccan defended his selection criteria, while revealing why the duo were best suited to play a part in one of their most important games of the season.

“There’s no right or wrong time to bring in a certain player,” Ouadou said. “There are a lot of factors contributing – such as the fitness of the player and what you see during training and training matches.

“I think at the beginning of the season we gave a chance to Mariko against Marumo Gallants. He started his journey at Pirates. So, he had seven months to adapt to the aggressiveness, pace, and environment of the PSL.

“He did very well. You can see improvements since we saw him last time. He came in against City, showed some dynamism, and made an extra final pass inside the box.”

On Selepe, Ouaddou said: “You know Selepe from last season. We thought it was the right time to bring him on. He showed us some great things at training. It was a profile that we needed today – find space between the lines. He did well.” 

A lot went against Pirates against City. They even failed to convert their set-pieces, notably 19 corners, into goals. However, with the team needing goals against Orbit, Ouaddou stressed that they needed to improve.

“If you can check the data now, Pirates is one of the best teams in either defending set-pieces or attacking set-pieces,” Ouaddou said. “It means that we’ve worked hard as the technical team in that area.

“But still, there’s a large area to improve. When you have that many set-pieces and don’t manage to score at least one goal, it means that we still have a lot of work to be done.

“People think that it’s the height of the players that contribute to converting set-pieces, but I think it’s the timing, judging the flight of the ball, and aggressiveness to convert. There are many factors contributing in this area.”

The Springbok alignment camp in Cape Town kicked off on the perfect note on Tuesday when coach Rassie Erasmus was honoured with the National Order of Ikhamanga in Gold by the Presidency on the same day.

Mark Alexander, the President of SA Rugby, congratulated Erasmus on being selected for the prestigious award.

The Order of Ikhamanga recognises South African citizens who have excelled in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism, and sport. According to the Presidency, Erasmus was nominated to receive the Order for his “inspirational leadership in national and international rugby that has propelled the Springboks to repeated Rugby World Cup championships.

“Victory on the field of play has advanced social cohesion among South Africans and raised the nation’s esteem in the international community,” said the Presidency.

[WATCH] President Cyril Ramaphosa bestows the Order of Ikhamanga in Gold on Springbok Coach Rassie Erasmus. #Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/i3zBa2fmFt

— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) May 19, 2026

Alexander said: “On behalf of SA Rugby, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Rassie Erasmus on the announcement of his receiving the Order of Ikhamanga in Gold. This prestigious honour is a fitting recognition of his outstanding contribution to rugby and to the promotion of social cohesion in our country.

“Rassie’s achievements have united South Africans across communities — instilling pride and inspiring a spirit of togetherness through the game we love. His leadership and vision have left an indelible mark on the sport and on our nation.

"We are honoured to celebrate this milestone with him. Rassie Erasmus is a true son of the South African soil, and this accolade reflects the immense impact he has had both on and off the field.”

The national accolade adds to a growing list of non-sporting honors for the World Cup-winning mastermind.

In March 2024, Erasmus received an honorary doctorate from the North-West University (NWU), in recognition of “his innovative and exceptional management of the Springboks during their victorious 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup campaigns, his significant standing in the international rugby coaching arena, his strong drive and focus on diversity and inclusion, and his commitment to social responsibility.”

American actress Gabrielle Union-Wade has once again shown love to South Africa after unexpectedly appearing in a Cape Town local’s karaoke video during a night out in the Mother City.

Cape Town resident Beauty Mangali shared a TikTok video of herself and friends singing, "We Belong Together" by Mariah Carey at Nkula Cocktail & Wine Boutique when Union-Wade casually appeared in the background singing along.

The unexpected celebrity cameo quickly caught the attention of social media users, with many amused by how naturally the Hollywood star blended into the moment.

Reflecting on the now-viral encounter, Mangali admitted that she did not initially realise the actress was standing right beside her.

“I only noticed when I got home that she looks VERY familiar 😭😭😂😂,” admitted Mangali.

The video sparked a flood of reactions online, with users praising Union for keeping things low-key and embracing the authentic moment with locals.

@mma_bodibz joked: “She took a while to appear, I was starting to think I’m drunk too.”

@_.Muzh.ie said: “She was probably just happy yall weren’t treating her any differently...probably the highlight of her day ❤️.”

@Online with Aya added: “She probably love the fact that you paid her no mind which is why she jammed with you guys 🥰, just a pure authentic moment.”

@njabs_msft commented: “The fact that she’s just happily singing along and kiking with y’all and not acting aboveboard is so motherrrr!.”

While @Jason Gone wrote: “That just shows how sisters got love for each other😀 all up in yaws video and don’t know each other but vibing😃.”

@beautymangali

♬ original sound - beautyMangali

Union-Wade is no stranger to South Africa. The actress last visited the country in November 2022 alongside her husband, former NBA star Dwyane Wade, as part of a multi-country African trip celebrating her 50th birthday.

During their stay, the couple explored Johannesburg, Soweto and Cape Town, with one of their most talked-about moments being a night out at the popular Konka nightclub in Soweto.

Union-Wade also hosted a launch event at Clicks for her “Flawless by Gabrielle Union" haircare range.

The pair documented their travels across the continent, which included stops in Ghana, Zanzibar and Namibia, while sharing glimpses of local food, nightlife, wine tastings and cultural experiences.

Union-Wade's latest surprise appearance in Cape Town has once again delighted South Africans online, with many applauding the actress for embracing the local vibe and enjoying an ordinary night out among locals.

Mamelodi Sundowns are ready to face the hostile conditions awaiting them at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, but coach Miguel Cardoso is hoping that the spirit of sportsmanship prevails on the day — both on the pitch and in the stands.

Sundowns are just one match away from winning the CAF Champions League, having beaten AS FAR 1–0 in the first leg of the continental final at a sold-out Loftus Versfeld last Sunday. Their slender lead means anything other than a defeat in regulation time will be enough to secure the title for the first time in 10 years. For Cardoso, who lost his previous two continental finals, the match represents a shot at being third-time lucky.

The second leg will be an immense test for the Brazilians. AS FAR's ultras are expected to pack the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium — creating an intense, hostile environment intended to spur on their team and stifle the South Africans’ attacking threats.

Given his extensive knowledge of African football, particularly in the north after starting his continental coaching tenure at Tunisian giants Esperance, Cardoso says it will be an honour to be part of interclub football’s biggest match.

“We know the difficulties that we are going to face in the second match,” Cardoso said. “Of course, we want to close the season on a high note. We need to understand that the environment we’ll go into is a privilege. There are not many people who get to enjoy playing in such a beautiful stadium. There’ll be an electrifying ambience. We’ll take our passionate supporters in our hearts, and they’ll be the strength that we need in difficult situations.”

AS FAR supporters demonstrated poor behaviour in the first leg at Loftus Versfeld, having been involved in a brawl with security personnel and police in their designated area. This incident has fuelled suspicions that they could prove to be sour losers if they fall short at home, potentially resulting in objects being thrown onto the pitch.

Cardoso, however, remains optimistic that football principles will prevail — as demonstrated when both teams agreed to continue playing without VAR in the second half at Loftus Versfeld due to technical glitches, regardless of the stakes.

“I am not worried about the ambience that can happen in Morocco in terms of going beyond the limits of a football match,” Cardoso continued. “I think both teams want to create a football spectacle. I hope the spirit of sport will prevail. Myself and my assistants will have our families in the stands. More than 50 people will be coming from Portugal to watch the match. So, I am pretty sure that what we do on the pitch will shape the direction of the contest.”

Cardoso knows his team cannot enter the stadium fearing retaliation from angry supporters if they dominate the game. That’s why he has called on his troops to play as a compact unit.

“We’ll try to reduce their strengths as much as possible,” he said. “We’ll control our team as much as possible. When we have the ball, we’ll try to be compact and be strong collectively, because that is the only way we can win the Champions League.”

Cardoso has ample belief in his troops, confident they can gather the mental strength to fight back even when AS FAR dominates possession and atmosphere.

“We will fight the right way for the trophy. We need to stick to the rules and the principles of the game,” Cardoso concluded. “It will be a different match. We need to be ready for the fact that we are going to suffer. But it’s important that we apply ourselves accordingly so that the opponent doesn't feel they can come with everything while we are not there.”

IN recent seasons, KwaZulu-Natal teams have been showing signs of rising to the top table of the Betway Premiership, and this season may prove to be their moment of passage.

The province, which has over the years been synonymous with relegation, stands this year to finish with three teams in the Top 8, while the only outsider, Richards Bay, is safely away from the drop zone.

Lamontville Golden Arrows will host TS Galaxy at the King Zwelithini Stadium, and a win would take them to 43 points and seal their spot in the Top 8 bracket.

AmaZulu need to win against local rivals Durban City at the Chatsworth Stadium on Saturday to finish in the Top 4 — where club president Sandile Zungu has mandated coach Arthur Zwane and his technical team to finish.

They can still finish in the Top 4 even if they fail to win, should Sekhukhune United lose against Siwelele at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.

The Durban derby between Usuthu and the Citizens is not expected to be too tricky an affair, since City are almost certain to finish in eighth position with 39 points, even should they lose against Usuthu.

City have a three-point gap over ninth-placed Stellenbosch FC, and the Durbanites have a far superior goal difference which will keep them safely within the Top 8, even if they lose and the Capetonians win.

To leapfrog City, Stellenbosch will have to win by at least five unanswered goals against relegation-threatened Marumo Gallants at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium on Saturday.

It is not only the Top 8 prospects that are making this a special season for the KZN sides, but also the fact that they have finally ended a 16-year silverware drought.

It is perhaps the headline of the season that new boys Durban City beat Galaxy early this month to be crowned the 2026 Nedbank Cup champions.

What makes their triumph even more interesting is the fact that this is their first season back in the South African top flight, even though they were relegated some seasons ago as Maritzburg United.

On top of being new to the Premiership, they are among the teams that at some point showed signs of instability, considering that sometime this season they changed coaching personnel three times in the space of three months.

They started the season with seasoned coach Gavin Hunt; he was replaced by the young Sinethemba Badela, who left after a short stint to be replaced by interim coach and incumbent, Pitso Dladla.

From relegation candidates to champions — Durban City are only the third KZN side to win top-flight silverware in the PSL era.

The first were Manning Rangers, who won the inaugural Premiership title in the PSL era in 1996/1997.

It took 13 years for Golden Arrows to put KZN in the headlines for the right reasons again, winning the MTN8 title in 2009, and it has been a dry spell ever since.

Last season, the province was again in the news for the wrong reasons as they were disgraced by Royal AM, who were expelled from the league after complicated administrative matters.

Football supporters will be hoping that this season’s spirited showing will spell change and steer the province in the right direction going forward.

The cherry on top is that Arrows striker Sede Dion is set to win the province the PSL Golden Boot as he leads the goal charts with 14 league goals this season.

Vehicle hijackings in South Africa remain at alarmingly high levels, according to recent crime statistics.

The data shows no signs of improvement, with several high-risk areas across the country continuing to pose significant threats to motorists.

In the Western Cape, the N2 route leading to Cape Town International Airport, often referred to by locals as “the gauntlet” or “the road to hell”, remains regarded as dangerous.

Popular vehicles such as the Toyota Hilux and Volkswagen Polo continue to dominate hijacking statistics due to their high resale value and strong demand for parts.

In Gauteng, Alexandra remains a hotspot, while Inanda in KwaZulu-Natal continues to record high numbers of hijacking incidents.

Newer additions to the list of commonly targeted vehicles include the Kia Picanto, Isuzu D-Max and Toyota Corolla Cross. The Ford Ranger also continues to feature prominently as its popularity grows.

CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, warned motorists against becoming complacent.

Herbert said: “The most important thing to understand is that no person, vehicle or area is immune to carjacking risk.

“Falling into complacency because your vehicle is not on the list or you seldom frequent high-risk areas is your biggest vulnerability. Vigilance is non-negotiable for your family, your employees and yourself.”

Herbert advised motorists to drive in the middle lane where possible to create distance from roadside criminals, particularly on high-risk routes.

Motorists were urged to remain alert at intersections and in slow-moving traffic, keep doors locked and windows closed, and leave enough space between vehicles to pull away quickly if necessary.

Herbert noted that hijacking risks are generally higher between 4pm and 9pm.

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Political parties have voiced their outrage over the cancellation of the Higher Education and Training Portfolio Committee meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, where Minister Buti Manamela was set to clarify his decision to place the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) under administration.

This cancellation came after Manamela requested additional time on Monday to finalise his presentation regarding NSFAS, amidst ongoing court challenges from board members contesting his earlier decision.

Some board members had earlier resigned amid reports of differences with Manamela over the appointment of the CEO.  

DA MP Delmaine Christians said the meeting could not proceed after neither the Department of Higher Education and Training nor NSFAS submitted presentations ahead of it.

“Minister Manamela has had weeks to prepare for today (Tuesday). The DA questions what Manamela is trying to hide from Parliament and the public of South Africa,” she said.

Christians noted that NSFAS Administrator Professor Hlengani Mathebula had, in a separate letter, raised governance and financial concerns regarding the participation of former board members in the cancelled meeting.

“These developments now point to a rapidly escalating governance and legal crisis within NSFAS, with Parliament itself increasingly being drawn into institutional instability, leadership disputes, procedural conflict, and uncertainty around accountability processes.”

She also said placing NSFAS under administration was presented as a measure to stabilise the institution.

“Yet within days, the matter has escalated into court action, governance disputes, delayed accountability to Parliament, and now the collapse of a critical parliamentary oversight engagement.

Christians also said South Africans deserved full transparency on the circumstances that led to the administration's decision, the legal and governance implications now unfolding, and whether the intervention intended to restore stability is instead deepening the crisis at NSFAS.

MK Party MP Mnqobi Msezane said Manamela should step down because he was failing at handpicking individuals and appointing them as administrators of strategic entities.

“He is now evading accountability by refusing to present before the portfolio committee on why he has put NSFAS under administration. We will expose him for what he is,” Msezane said.

EFF MP Sihle Lonzi said it appeared Manamela was trying to avoid appearing before Parliament on the NSFAS matters.

Lonzi has since written to House Chairperson for Committees, Cedric Frolick, expressing dismay at the cancellation of the meeting.

He said the meeting had been agreed to by MPs and then placed on the parliamentary programme.

“It is, therefore, concerning that members are now being informed on the eve of the meeting, through informal communication channels such as Whatsapp messages, that the meeting will not proceed.

“We do not believe this approach is parliamentary, as it is inconsistent with the formal procedures that govern meetings of Parliament and its committee,” Lonzi wrote in his letter.

He stated that the committee has previously convened meetings under similar circumstances.

He was referring to instances when former minister Nobuhle Nkabane and University of Limpopo failed to comply with committee directives.

“If allowed to stand, this approach risks establishing a dangerous precedent that parliamentary oversight meetings may be unilaterally deferred or abandoned at the last moment through informal communication whenever accountability becomes inconvenient or contested,” said Lonzi.

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Traffic officer, Anathi Ndyalvan, had no idea that on May 4 he would be saving the life of Cape Town councillor Sue van der Linde. 

Van der Linde is the ward councillor of ward 113, representing areas including Table View, Flamingo Vlei, Killarney Gardens, and Parklands.

According to the City of Cape Town, the councillor started feeling ill behind the wheel along the N1 highway and made it into the emergency lane before passing out. 

Officer Ndyalvan stopped to assist her and noted the need for urgent medical care.

The officer decided to drive the councillor to a nearby hospital instead of waiting for an ambulance to arrive. 

Upon arrival at the medical facility, Van der Linde was informed she suffered a stroke, and the officer’s swift actions saved her life. 

“‘As the ER doctor said, out of every stroke, there are only about 2% of people who make it in time for the injection and had it been half an hour later, they would not dispense the medication to you because of the risk," Van der Linde said. 

Officer Ndyalvan was treated to a surprise appreciation for his heroic act. 

His appreciation ceremony comes a week after his colleague, inspector Faith Blaauw, was reunited with a family whom she assisted in November 2023, when the mom went into labour at just 23 weeks.

At the weekend, the actions of traffic officer Ricardo Arnold went viral after a mother took to social media to praise him for helping her and her two children after they were stranded along Jakes Gerwel Drive near Samora Machel on Friday night due to a tyre burst. 

Arnold stayed with the family, arranged a tow truck, and escorted them to a garage where he inspected the other wheels to ensure they were in order.  

Safety and Security mayco member JP Smith expressed his pride at the actions of the officers. 

“These anecdotes are all proof that there is plenty of care and quick thinking in our Traffic Service.

"The officers are often maligned, because their job is to hold people accountable, a fact that isn’t always welcomed.

"But every day, officers across the Safety and Security Directorate do amazing things and I have heard the experiences of motorists and the relief they feel when one of our vehicles arrive to assist,” Smith said. 

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American actor Omar Benson Miller is making the most of his time in South Africa, from beachside adventures with African penguins to enjoying matcha with Springboks captain Siya Kolisi in Cape Town.

Miller recently took to Instagram to share highlights from his trip to the Mother City, giving fans a glimpse into his South African experience.

The actor posted photos and videos from Boulders Beach, where he spent time exploring the coastline and interacting with the famous African penguins.

During his visit, Miller also met up with Kolisi, with the pair bonding over matcha drinks in Cape Town.

Kolisi later shared a photo of them on Instagram, captioning it: “From California to Cape Town, hope you enjoyed our country.”

Miller responded warmly to the Springboks star, replying: “Thanks for the hospitality 🫡.”

Kolisi has become well known for showcasing South Africa to international celebrities and visitors whenever he is away from rugby duties.

Earlier this year, English football legend and media personality Ian Wright also visited South Africa and received a memorable welcome from Kolisi.

The pair shared videos documenting their Cape Town adventures, embracing local culture and experiences across the city.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Siya Kolisi (@siyakolisi)

Kolisi even took Wright on a township tour, where they enjoyed a traditional braai at one of his favourite shisanyama spots.

The two were later seen relaxing at a taxi rank while sharing a heartfelt conversation, offering fans a more personal glimpse into their friendship.

Kolisi and Wright also linked up with South African content creator Jonathan Peter.

In one of the standout moments from the trip, the trio danced to "Jerusalema" by Master KG on the lawns of Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel.

Meanwhile, Kolisi recently confirmed an emotional new chapter in his rugby career.

The Springboks captain played his final match for the Sharks on Saturday, May 16, and is expected to return to Cape Town in July to rejoin the DHL Stormers at the end of the current rugby season.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Sharks (@sharksrugby)

The move will allow Kolisi to be closer to his family while also mentoring younger players as part of the Stormers’ long-term plans.

Speaking after his farewell match at Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium in Durban, Kolisi thanked supporters for embracing him during his time in KwaZulu-Natal.

“Sharks family, today was the last one, very emotional day. I just want to say thank you so much to the whole Sharks family for the support. Thank you for the love that you’ve shown me,” said Kolisi.

“To the people of KZN, you’ve been amazing. Thank you for all the support.”

A murder that shocked communities across the Western Cape has ended with a lengthy prison sentence after the woman accused of orchestrating the killing of her pregnant ex-girlfriend was sentenced in the Wynberg Regional Court.

Felicia Keur was sentenced to 25 years’ imprisonment, with five years suspended, for the murder of 26-year-old Melanie Stoffels.

Stoffels was killed on August 7, 2024 in Heideveld, in what the State described as a planned and coordinated attack.

She was pregnant at the time of her death.

The court heard how Stoffels was beaten to death with a hammer before her body was dumped near a footbridge.

The murder drew widespread outrage because of the extreme violence involved and the loss of both Stoffels and her unborn child.

Earlier this year, Keur's co-accused, Quinton Jacobs, received an 18-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to the murder.

During those proceedings, the State detailed how the attack had allegedly been arranged in advance.

Woman and Child protection group, Action Society, welcomed the sentencing, saying it reflected the seriousness of the crime.

Kaylynn Palm, Western Cape Head of Action Society, said while the sentence could not erase the family’s pain, accountability remained important.

“Melanie was a young woman with her whole future ahead of her. Her unborn child was also robbed of life in an act of calculated and senseless violence. While no sentence can undo the devastation suffered by her family, accountability remains critically important,” said Palm.

Palm added that South Africans were becoming increasingly exposed to horrific levels of violence against women.

“A pregnant woman was beaten to death with a hammer and her body discarded near a footbridge. Yet cases involving extreme violence against women continue to appear on court rolls across the country week after week.

"Communities are exhausted, families are living in fear, and many no longer trust that the system is capable of preventing violence before it turns fatal,” she said.

Action Society said it had closely monitored the matter and supported the Stoffels family throughout the court process.

The organisation also extended condolences to the family and acknowledged the work of investigators and prosecutors involved in securing the conviction and sentence.

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The Junior Springbok training squad assembled at the Stellenbosch Academy of Sport (SAS) on Monday, where they completed their first training session ahead of the upcoming Under-20 International Series.

The series will feature the SA U20s, as well as their counterparts from Chile, Fiji, and Georgia, and will be staged at three schools – Rondebosch Boys’ High School and Wynberg Boys’ High School in Cape Town’s southern suburbs, and Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch.

The inaugural tournament follows on the heels of the recent SANZAAR U20 Rugby Championship in Gqeberha, where South Africa claimed the title after victories over Argentina and Australia, before drawing their final encounter against New Zealand at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

Several familiar faces reported for duty at SAS on Monday, including Vusi Moyo (flyhalf), who recently made his Vodacom United Rugby Championship debut for the Hollywoodbets Sharks, as well as his franchise team-mate Luan Giliomee (utility back), and Siphosethu Mnebelele (hooker), both of whom after missing the Eastern Cape assignment due to injury.

Other players who sat out the Junior Boks’ successful campaign in Gqeberha through injury and are now back in the mix include prop Kai Pratt, loose forward Vuyo Gwiji, and centres Pieter van der Merwe and Christian Vorster.

Junior Bok head coach Kevin Foote noted the positive energy brought by returning players.

“Seeing the smiles on those who have rejoined the camp after completing their injury rehabilitation says a lot. We are very glad to have them back with us,” said Foote.

The Junior Bok mentor reflected that while the U20 Rugby Championship was a valuable experience, the squad has pivoted quickly toward their forthcoming fixtures against Chile, Fiji, and Georgia

“We achieved our mission in Gqeberha, but we now face a fresh challenge and must prepare accordingly,” said Foote, adding that they have to hit the ground running, as there is limited preparation time before the opening round against Chile this Thursday.

SA Rugby U20 International Series fixtures:

Thursday, 21 May 2026 – Rondebosch Boys' High School, Cape Town

13h00: Georgia v Fiji

15h00: South Africa v Chile

Tuesday, 26 May 2026 – Wynberg Boys' High School, Cape Town

13h00: Chile v Georgia

15h00: South Africa v Fiji

Saturday, 30 May 2026 – Markötter Stadium, Paul Roos Gymnasium, Stellenbosch

14h30: South Africa v Georgia

16h30: Fiji v Chile

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December in the Mother City is about to get a whole lot more spirited.

Cape Town Cocktail Week (CTCW) officially returns from December 7 to 13, promising a massive celebration of the city's booming drink culture.

If you love exploring the best bars in Cape Town, trying exclusive craft menus and catching international guest bartenders in action, clear your calendar.

With a CTCW wristband and a map in hand, you'll unlock specially priced signature cocktails and pop-up events at top-tier venues across the city.

But this year, the festival is launching something completely new: a dedicated education programme designed to lift the curtain on how the world's best drinks are made.

To lead this new masterclass series, CTCW has appointed industry icon Kurt Schlechter as director of Education. If you've ever had a drink at the award-winning Cause Effect Cocktail Kitchen, you already know Schlechter's work.

Schlechter is teaming up with festival founder Leah van Deventer to curate the lineup. Between them, this duo has appeared nine times on the prestigious Drinks International Bar World 100 list, which ranks the most influential people in the global drinks space.

With Van Deventer recently named Mentor of the Year and Schlechter honoured as Industry Icon at South Africa's Bar & Beverage Awards, attendees are learning from the absolute best in the business.

"Education only works when it's embedded in the industry it's meant to serve," says Schlechter. "With our combined passion, Leah and I want to deliver something that genuinely serves the community we've spent decades mentoring."

The ultimate host: Mount Nelson, a Belmond Hotel

The festival's educational heart will beat at the iconic Mount Nelson.

Set right beneath Table Mountain, the historic hotel is the perfect backdrop for a week of masterclasses, panels and seminars.

It is a fitting venue. The Nellie is home to Planet Bar, one of the city’s pioneering cocktail spots and the very first South African bar to crack the World’s 50 Best Bars list back in 2009.

"Mount Nelson is synonymous with the very best of this city. It’s the ideal home for the festival, explains Van Deventer.

Clement Edwards, assistant food and beverage manager at Mount Nelson, echoes the excitement: "By providing a world-class setting, we aim to inspire creativity and learning while celebrating Cape Town as a hub for innovation and mindful mixology."

How to get involved?

While cocktail enthusiasts can look forward to attending these masterclasses, CTCW is officially opening the floor to the global bar community to help shape the curriculum.

If you are a bartender, brand ambassador, or industry educator with a brilliant idea for a seminar, panel, or interactive workshop, submissions are now open.

What they are looking for: Innovative concepts focusing on skills development, trends and the future of the global drinks space.

Deadline: June 5. Submit applications at: https://bit.ly/CTCW26EdProg

A grade 9 learner at Zwaanswyk High School is using music to spread a message of hope and self-worth as part of the school’s anti-bullying campaign.

Nishaat Abrahams performed her original song, Ugly Girl, during the school assembly last Thursday, encouraging fellow learners to stand against bullying and recognise their value.

She sang her song at the school assembly as part of the school’s anti-bullying campaign, while the senior pupils also shared detailed information on how they will roll out the programme. 

Nishaat said it was important to raise this anti-bullying message through this song. “It is important because there are a lot of children out there who feel like they are not worth it, where people are telling them they can’t do anything. I want them to know that they are worth it, and if they listen to my song, they can feel worth it,” she said.

The school’s head of discipline, Grade 12, Quinn-Tino Matthyse said they ran an anti-bullying program each year using different categories. “We want to inform pupils that teachers and pupils are here for you, if you find yourself in a situation where you are bullied,” he said. Matthyse said they want to remove bullying from the school environment completely. “Our highest priority at the school is to ensure that education is here and that there is a good support system,” he said.

Matthyse said the whole school would get involved, where they will sign an anti-bullying pledge and recite an oath. “The anti-bullying campaign is not only about receiving a ribbon for signing a pledge, but it is about creating awareness for victims; it should be a priority each day of your life,” he said.

Acting Deputy Principal, Chaneé Pillay said they aimed to make their learners understand the concept of bullying.

“We want our kids to be educated enough to recognise when they are being ill-treated, we want them to know that they should be able to speak up when someone is making them feel uncomfortable,” she said. 

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Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has sparked controversy by urging the ANC and other parties in the Government of National Unity (GNU) to protect President Cyril Ramaphosa from possible impeachment. 

Cachalia, who made these remarks during an interview with eNCA, stated that impeaching Ramaphosa will destabilise the country, adding that the ANC and its partners in the GNU must protect him.

While the ANC announced its support for Ramaphosa, the DA stated its commitment to the GNU saying it will not trade accountability for political power. 

Ramaphosa faces a newly established parliamentary impeachment committee investigating his conduct in the Phala Phala farm scandal. 

This major development follows the Constitutional Court ruling, which declared Parliament’s previous 2022 block of the inquiry unlawful. 

The court ruled that Parliament acted unconstitutionally by dismissing a Section 89 Independent Panel report, which found ‘prima facie’ evidence of serious misconduct regarding $580 000 in cash hidden in a sofa on Ramaphosa's farm.

Governance expert and political analyst Sandile Swana said there is political bias coming from Cachalia’s remarks, as he had been close to Ramaphosa during their anti-apartheid activism within the United Democratic Front (UDF) in the 1980s. 

Swana added that Cachalia’s statement could also imply that Ramaphosa should never be investigated and punished, regardless of what he has done. 

He called on Cachalia to identify the instigators of any possible form of instability and report this to the intelligence services and arrest them. 

“It is Cachalia’s job to make sure that there is no chaos if Ramaphosa is removed. He should protect the internal stability of the country,” Swana said.

Cachalia's spokesperson, Kamo Mogotsi said the Minister could not respond to queries on his remarks as he was preparing to table his 2026/27 Budget on Tuesday.

Mogotsi added that the Minister was willing to discuss the rationale behind his comments.

National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza last week established a 31-member Section 89 Impeachment Committee to investigate and determine whether there is sufficient evidence to impeach Ramaphosa.

Political parties have until May 22 to submit their finalised member nominations. 

The 31 seats are allocated among 16 political parties as follows: ANC (9 seats), DA (5), MK Party (3), EFF (2), and one seat each for the IFP, PA, FF Plus, ActionSA, ACDP, UDM, RISE Mzansi, BOSA, ATM, Al Jama-ah, NCC, and UAT.

Political analyst Kim Heller said constitutional accountability cannot ever be  "destabilising", adding that political accountability must always trump the shielding of political elites. 

“These remarks disrespect the democratic processes and add to political disillusionment among South Africans,” she said. 

Professor Sipho Seepe said that this set a dangerous precedent that Ramaphosa is above the law, adding that the country has seen law enforcement failing to do their job to hold him accountable.

“The NPA has been unwilling to charge in the face of prima facie evidence pointing to the fact that he has a case to answer,” he said.

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Police in the Western Cape are investigating a mass shooting that occurred on Saturday night in Wesbank, Blue Downs, leaving four people dead and a seven-year-old child injured.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has deployed specialised units to track down the attackers, who are believed to be connected to ongoing gang violence in the area.

The incident took place at about 8pm in Strandveld Street.

The provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Andrè Traut, said four counts of murder and one count of attempted murder are currently being investigated.

“At approximately 8pm, SAPS members responded to a complaint in Strandveld Street in Wesbank, where they discovered three adult females and one adult male, aged between 32 and 39, with gunshot wounds. The victims were declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel. An injured seven-year-old child was transported to a nearby medical facility for treatment,” Traut said.

This attack is the latest in a series of mass shootings plaguing the Cape Flats area. Local community policing forums (CPFs) have repeatedly called for increased police visibility and a harsher crackdown on illegal firearms to combat escalating gang warfare in the region.

Police said its preliminary investigation has suggested that the incident may be gang-related.

“The circumstances surrounding the shooting are currently under investigation by the Serious and Violent Crime Unit, and no arrests have been made at this stage,” Traut said.

Police urge anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or alternatively use the MySAPS mobile application anonymously.

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A 32-year-old man, accused of raping and impregnating an 11-year-old girl, appeared briefly in the Atlantis Magistrate’s Court on Monday to face charges of rape.

The man, believed to be the boyfriend of the child's mother, was arrested following the issuance of a police warrant.

This comes after it emerged that an 11-year-old girl had given birth over a week ago, allegedly as a result of sexual abuse.

The child’s mother has since been arrested and appeared in the Atlantis Magistrate’s Court in connection with failure to report a commission of a sexual offence. 

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed her court appearance.

The child or her mother cannot be identified because the girl is still a minor, and to avoid secondary trauma. 

The mother has been remanded in custody and is expected to apply for bail today(tues), while the boyfriend's case has been postponed to May 26 for a formal bail application.

DA MP and NCOP Member on Security and Justice, Nicholas Gotsell, said he will be opposing the release of the alleged rapist. 

“Child rapists must be removed from society. The DA is appalled by the rape of an 11-year-old girl who has recently given birth.  Whilst we will allow the law to take its course, the DA will exert even more pressure on the Acting Minister of Police to provide answers to its letter dated May 17, expressing its concern about the Western Cape Provincial Police Commissioner’s disregard for the fight against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF),” Gotsell said. 

He further told IOL he found it extremely alarming that, once visiting Atlantis, there were no rape kits for children. 

“During several oversight visits on Thursday and Friday and again today [Monday] to the Atlantis police station, the DA found barely any D1 (adult) rape kits and no D7 rape kits for children.  This has raised the question of resourcing of SAPS FCS units, who work with the most vulnerable persons in these societies, over the past weeks,” he said. 

“Accordingly, the DA has requested the details of every rape and sexual assault case reported at these stations and will keep an eye on the investigation of every single one of them and where it appears that SAPS members were not able to collect evidence from victims to build a proper case, which would ensure convictions and clean up this scourge of GBV plaguing our society,” Gotsell said. 

He said police play a crucial role in the collection of evidence and the conviction of rapists. 

“The inaction by SAPS senior management in the Western Cape indicates that the President’s promise of GBV being declared a national state of disaster was a lie,” Gotsell said. 

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COMMENT

Oh, how the mighty have fallen.

If there was ever proof needed of the dismantling of the English Premier League "big six", then Tottenham Hotspur's away clash against Chelsea on Tuesday night is it, with stakes that stretch far beyond the London rivalry.

For Spurs, survival is now painfully close yet still not mathematically secured. For Chelsea, meanwhile, the latest managerial reset has once again thrown one of English football’s biggest clubs into uncertainty.

It all adds up to a showdown loaded with tension, desperation and intrigue.

After West Ham United slipped to defeat against Newcastle United over the weekend, Tottenham know a single point would be enough to guarantee their Premier League status and avoid what would have been one of the most astonishing relegations in modern English football.

Defeat for @WestHam means @SpursOfficial can secure Premier League safety with a victory against Chelsea on Tuesday 👊

How it currently stands 👇

— Premier League (@premierleague) May 17, 2026

That such a sentence can even be written about Spurs underlines the scale of the collapse.

A club that began the season speaking confidently about Uefa Champions League aspirations and long-term rebuilding, instead finds itself clinging nervously to survival after months of defensive chaos, injuries, inconsistency and managerial uncertainty. The atmosphere around the club has turned toxic at times, with supporters openly questioning the direction of the project and the mentality of a squad that has too often looked fragile under pressure.

Yet, Chelsea make their latest stand at The Bridge carrying turmoil of their own.

The Blues confirmed the appointment of Xabi Alonso as their new head coach on Sunday, handing the former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen boss a four-year contract in the latest attempt to end the club’s relentless cycle of instability.

The irony is impossible to ignore. Chelsea’s announcement should have been a moment of optimism and renewal. Instead, it has only reinforced the perception of a club permanently trapped in transition. 

Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Xabi Alonso as Manager of the Men’s Team.

The Spaniard will begin his role on July 1, 2026, having agreed a four-year contract at Stamford Bridge.

Welcome to Chelsea, Xabi!

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) May 17, 2026

Since the arrival of the BlueCo ownership group, Chelsea have lurched from one managerial experiment to another. Graham Potter, Mauricio Pochettino, Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior have all come and gone in rapid succession, while interim appointments have become almost routine at Stamford Bridge.

Alonso now effectively becomes the sixth permanent manager of the BlueCo-era – and another symbol of a club still searching desperately for identity and stability.

What makes the appointment especially fascinating is the reaction it has triggered across English football.

Many Liverpool supporters had long viewed Alonso as a dream future manager given his legendary status at Anfield – and Arne Slot's recent struggles – making Chelsea’s capture of the Spaniard particularly painful for sections of the Liverpool fanbase. Online reaction has ranged from disbelief to frustration, especially given Alonso’s reputation as one of Europe’s brightest young coaches despite his turbulent spell in Madrid.

Chelsea are gambling that Alonso can finally bring coherence to an expensively assembled but deeply inconsistent squad.

Victory for @NUFC leaves @WestHam in the relegation zone 🏁 pic.twitter.com/RL51oMBIsg

— Premier League (@premierleague) May 17, 2026

But before Alonso officially begins his rebuild in July, Chelsea must first navigate one more emotionally charged night against wounded opponents fighting for survival.

That is what makes this fixture so compelling.

Neither side arrives with confidence. Chelsea's season had long floundered in the mist of mid-season mediocrity, with Saturday's FA Cup final defeat against Manchester City the latest blow. A European spot is not out of reach – but the one that truly matters is long gone. 

Neither side looks structurally sound. Both clubs are carrying the scars of disastrous campaigns that have raised serious questions about recruitment, leadership and long-term planning. Yet for all the dysfunction surrounding them, Tuesday night still carries enormous consequence.

For Tottenham, it could finally bring relief. For Chelsea, it may offer the first glimpse of what the Alonso era could eventually become – or another reminder of how far one of England’s biggest clubs has strayed from stability.

The future of sport in Tafelsig has again come under the spotlight as concerns grow over the conditions at the former Swartklip Indoor Sports Centre site, where young footballers continue to train despite ongoing sewage problems and uncertainty over the future use of the land.

While the City’s Recreation and Parks Department plans to use a portion of the land for cemetery purposes, the remainder has still been earmarked for sporting activities.

A public participation process has already been conducted and a report containing public comments was submitted to sub-council 12 before being referred to the department.

For many residents, the issue highlights the shortage of safe recreational spaces for children in Tafelsig.

Coach Junaid Abrahams, head of development at Riverton Football Club, said losing the field would have serious consequences for young people in the area.

“Making a cemetery on this land is going to put children out and we will lose the children to gangsterism,” he said.

The club, which plays under the Mitchells Plain Local Football Association (LFA), has been active for six years and caters for players from under-six level to over-40 divisions. Several other clubs also make use of the field.

Abrahams said sewage overflowing onto the grounds remains a major concern for players. “The pipe in the road was fixed, but the pipe on the field is still a problem and boiling."

Despite the hazardous conditions, children continue to train because they have nowhere else to go. “We play with the balls and sometimes it goes into the water and they must take it out. We are short on equipment, but use what we have,” he said.

Abrahams said the club is trying to keep children involved in sport and away from crime.

Abrahams said many families struggle to afford registration costs and the club often steps in to help. “We can make a difference in a lot of children’s lives,” he said.

Community activist Juven Rittles of Unchain the Plain said he visited the site in late April and described the smell as overwhelming.

“I watched the boys train while two trucks were cleaning the sewage blockages. Last season they told me this was the situation. Why does it have to amount to this before help comes?”

Rittles said although he understands the field has been condemned, there is still an urgent need for safe sporting spaces in the area.

In an online video released in January, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Francine Higham and ward 92 councillor, Norman Adonis visited the site during the demolition process.

Higham said the facility was built ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and many residents remembered it as a vibrant sporting hub.

The department said public safety could not be compromised and noted that facilities such as the Olifantshoek Community Centre and Nelson Mandela Multipurpose Centre remain available nearby while further recreational opportunities continue to be explored in Mitchells Plain and Khayelitsha.

For more information you can contact president of Riveron FC, Ignatius Bussack on 083 885 7142 of Coach Abrahams on 081 700 9454.

A construction site on lower Bree Street came to a screeching halt on Monday as authorities conducted a raid where several undocumented workers were detained.

"It's just that we have foreigners that are working on the construction site, and now they want to verify their documents," said a safety official at the site, who spoke on condition that they not be named.

Just before 9am, at least 11 police vans surrounded the active construction site, said to be a 42-storey hotel, with metro police, the SA Police Service (SAPS), law enforcement, and Cape Town Central City Improvement District (CCID) keeping watch for any who attempted to evade inspection.

It is estimated that between 170 to 200 people were actively working on the site, according to the safety official. 

Led by the labour department, the raid resulted in at least 27 arrests.

A representative of the main contractor, Anastasi Construction, who was at the site on Monday, refused to provide further detail and said it was a “routine inspection”.

Multiple people around the site said the inspection was supposed to be a regular check-up, however, a police constable said it was not a regular inspection.

“No, this is not a random check. We have a joint operation with all these that we see here,” the constable said.

Two CCID officers said it was not the first inspection that led to the arrest of undocumented workers in the CBD. 

A constable confirmed that by 11am around 27 people were detained.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg said: “An integrated operation between SAPS and Metro Police on Monday in the Cape Town CBD, led to the arrests of 27 undocumented persons. The men were detained at Cape Town Central police station and will appear in the Cape Town Magistrates’ court once they have been charged.

They face charges in terms of the Immigration Act.”

While the raid was continuing, people were heard screaming for others to hide and to run away.

Some even attempted to run but were caught by officials on the ground. 

“We're just trying to get the people who are here illegally. We’ve got Home Affairs here also, verifying their documents and all stuff. If they do have a working permit, some they do have a visiting permit but not a working permit,” the constable said.

An official from the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) at the site declined to comment, saying, “not at this time, we have to control this one.”

By early afternoon, construction had resumed.

Over the previous financial year, the DEL slapped 38 employers with fines amounting to R68 000 for hiring illegal foreign nationals without valid work permits in contravention of immigration laws.

In a parliamentary reply, Minister Nomakhosazana Meth said her department conducts blitz inspections in collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs and the police.

Meth said her department’s mandate was to enforce the implementation of labour laws to ensure the protection of workers, while the Department of Home Affairs scrutinised the validity of visas and work permits through the application of immigration laws.

Meth said during the blitz, 68 employers and 322 foreign nationals were found on the wrong side of the law across the nine provinces.

“With respect to the 68 employers arrested, each employer paid an admission of guilt fine to the amount of R10 000.

“Therefore, the total amount paid in lieu of fines is R680 000 while the 322 employees were taken for further processing as per immigration requirements,” she said.

Meth’s response showed the Eastern Cape led the pack with 34 employers that flouted the laws and were fined a collective R340 000, followed by Mpumalanga with 15, Limpopo eight, KwaZulu-Natal five, and two in the Western Cape.

She also said of the 322 foreign employees that were arrested, the largest number, 163, were from Limpopo.

The Western Cape came second with foreign nationals at 43, Eastern Cape and Gauteng at 34 each, Mpumalanga 30, KwaZulu-Natal 16, and Free State two.

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While the brutal cold fronts have passed, the devastating aftermath continues to impact communities in the Western Cape.

Humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers is focusing its relief efforts on the affected areas, with spokesperson Ali Sablay stating that their response has expanded to assist those severely impacted by the flooding.

“Since the onset of the disaster, teams have been assisting major informal settlements across the Cape Metropole, while additional teams have been deployed to outlying regions, including the Breede Valley, Cape Winelands District, Cape Agulhas Municipality, and Langeberg Municipality.

“Our teams have now reached Wolseley, an area that has experienced immense rainfall, with fatalities sadly reported,” Sablay said. 

Sablay said that this has become a major humanitarian operation stretching from the Cape Metropole into the Southern Cape and Central Karoo, with more than 100,000 affected residents requiring urgent humanitarian assistance.

Since last Monday, Gift of the Givers teams have distributed more than 150,000 hot meals, together with blankets, hygiene packs, mattresses, and baby care supplies to flood-affected residents across the Western Cape.

Sablay said that there is still a need for collections and donations, which can be delivered to the Newlands Cricket Stadium drop-off centre.

Several sporting heroes have lent their voices in support of Gift of the Givers, while the Western Province Cricket Association (WPCA) has also partnered with the organisation to support local communities.

WPCA CEO Corrie van Zyl said: “While Western Province Cricket Association and Newlands have also felt the effects of the recent storms, it has not been as traumatic as it has been for many communities across the Western Cape. 

“Our hearts go out to those in smaller and rural areas who have suffered immense loss. I’ve personally witnessed the devastation, and it is deeply moving,” Van Zyl said. 

“We urge the public to support Gift of the Givers in reaching those who need it most.”

The public is encouraged to donate essential items, all of which must be new, including blankets, linen, towels and face cloths, non-perishable food items, 5L bottled water, hygiene packs, soap, toothpaste, and toothbrushes, roll-on deodorant and body lotion, toilet paper, sanitary pads and diapers.

Sablay added that they do not need second-hand clothing and only the aforementioned items, as there is an unfortunate consequence: donation spots becoming dumping grounds for second-hand clothes. 

Among those sportsmen who have shared their support are former South African cricket captain Graeme Smith, cricket fast bowler Wayne Parnell, and Springbok Rugby World Cup champion Cheslin Kolbe.

“The Cheslin Kolbe Foundation would love to raise R1 million, and all those proceeds will go towards the Gift of the Givers for the incredible work they have done on the ground by getting families back into a safer environment,” Kolbe said.

WPCA also called on all stakeholders, corporates, and members of the public to unite in support of this critical initiative and help bring relief to communities in need.

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In the wake of the devastating storms that struck the Western Cape last week, dam levels have surged to over 70%, providing a brief respite. However, authorities are still grappling with widespread flood damage, infrastructure destruction, and the tragic loss of 11 lives.

Premier Alan Winde and Western Cape Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning Minister Anton Bredell said disaster response and recovery operations remain in full swing across several hard-hit districts.

The province’s combined dam levels rose dramatically from 52.46% last week to 70.59% after multiple cold fronts brought torrential rain, gale-force winds, flooding rivers and overflowing dams to large parts of the province.

Authorities recorded rainfall between 150mm and 200mm in mountainous regions, while wind speeds reached between 100km/h and 120km/h in certain areas.

The Cape Winelands District and parts of the West Coast were among the worst affected regions, including Worcester, Rawsonville, Ceres, Wolseley, Citrusdal, Wuppertal, Vredendal and Lutzville. Informal settlements and floodplain areas in the City of Cape Town also experienced severe flooding.

Premier Winde said recovery efforts were progressing, although significant challenges remained.

“There has been good progress. But there is still a lot of work ahead. All our disaster management teams and other stakeholders are working as hard as they can to reopen all roads, repair damaged infrastructure, and restore critical services,” he said.

Winde, joined by several provincial cabinet members and officials, conducted an aerial assessment of some of the worst-hit areas on Monday to evaluate the scale of destruction and estimate recovery costs.

The latest weather disaster is also being assessed for possible classification as a national disaster.

Electricity restoration remains one of the province’s major priorities, with Eskom teams and municipalities working to reconnect affected communities.

“But teams are encountering significant accessibility challenges in some areas, hampering their work,” Winde said.

Humanitarian relief operations are continuing across the province, with thousands of residents receiving emergency assistance including food parcels, cooked meals, drinking water, blankets and hygiene supplies. Temporary shelters also remain operational in several districts for displaced families.

The Premier also extended condolences to the families of those who died during the storms.

“Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the 11 people who died,” Winde said.

He further thanked disaster management officials, volunteers, NGOs and national government partners for their ongoing support during the emergency response operations.

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The latest Springbok alignment camp offers more than just tactical meetings and conditioning sessions. For several players, it represents a valuable chance to strengthen their standing in the national setup and show they are capable of taking the next step toward Test rugby.

Here, are five players whose performances in the URC have earned them growing attention from the Springbok coaches, with injury ruling out a number of other exciting prospects.

Zekhethelo Siyaya (Sharks)

Still only a teenager, Siyaya has emerged as one of the Sharks’ most exciting young prospects after a rapid rise through the ranks in Durban. The utility back has impressed with his composure, attacking instincts and adaptability, featuring at both fullback and flyhalf during the latter stages of the URC season and scoring a first try.

His willingness to attack the line and confidence under pressure have stood out despite limited senior experience. What makes Siyaya especially intriguing from a Springbok perspective is his versatility, with Rassie Erasmus traditionally valuing backs capable of covering multiple positions at international level.

Siyaya in the fast lane! 🚐💨@vodacom #urc pic.twitter.com/sZ6eavppqg

— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) May 18, 2026

Sibabalwe Mahashe (Lions)

Mahashe has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with the Lions, establishing himself as a dynamic and hardworking loose forward in a side that exceeded expectations to reach the URC play-offs. The flank has impressed with his mobility, defensive work rate and ability to compete effectively at the breakdown against more experienced opposition.

He has also shown a willingness to do the unseen work that often catches the attention of national selectors. With the Springboks constantly seeking to build depth and versatility in the back row, Mahashe’s rise has come at the ideal time. 

Rassie Erasmus has invited two exciting youngsters amongst a group of new players to the next #Springboks alignment camp - more here: https://t.co/HLz2kCyLY5 🤝#ForeverGreenForeverGold pic.twitter.com/FWpXjPP2bu

— Springboks (@Springboks) May 13, 2026

Nthuthuko Mchunu (Stormers)

Mchunu has steadily emerged as one of the Stormers’ most promising young front-row prospects during a demanding URC campaign. The loosehead prop has impressed with his scrummaging discipline, mobility around the park from his loose-forward days and growing confidence against seasoned opposition, showing signs of a player capable of handling the physical demands of elite rugby.

Still early in his professional career, Mchunu’s rapid development has not gone unnoticed by the Springbok coaches, who continue to prioritise depth and succession planning in the front row. The alignment camp now offers him a valuable opportunity to continue that progression within the national setup.

Batho Hlekani (Lions)

Hlekani’s rise at the Lions has been built on relentless physicality and a strong presence at the breakdown. The powerful loose forward has brought energy and aggression whenever given opportunities for the Joburg side, quickly earning a reputation as a player capable of shifting momentum with dominant carries and defensive intensity.

His profile fits the modern Springbok loose-forward mould – mobile, abrasive and effective in collisions. The alignment camp gives Hlekani an opportunity to show whether he can translate his growing URC influence into the higher tactical and physical demands of international rugby.

Jaco Williams (Sharks)

Williams may not yet be a household name, but his pace and finishing ability have made him one of the Sharks’ most dangerous outside backs this season. The former Junior Bok star winger has taken his opportunities impressively in the URC, showing sharp instincts in broken play and an ability to create scoring chances from limited space.

His acceleration and attacking confidence bring a different dimension to the Sharks’ backline, while his alignment camp call-up reflects growing recognition from the national coaches. In a highly competitive position, Williams now has a chance to prove he belongs in the wider Bok conversation. Like Siyaya, he also boasts versatility, having also featured at fullback this season.

The alignment camp – which comprises 25 forwards and 15 backline players – will run from Tuesday to Thursday. 

The ACDC Duet Xchange - a riveting new platform for choreographic innovation - is set to light up the Mother City Theatre this weekend.

The bi-annual competition will be presented by the Anderson Carvalho Dance & Choreography (ACDC) at the Homecoming Centre’s Star Theatre on Friday, May 22 and Saturday, May 23.

This curated programme will focus on collaborative exchange as well as high-stakes competition, placing a new generation of choreographic voices alongside established creators.

This initiative has been established to improve the nation’s contemporary dance movement by placing choreographers, collaboration and new work in the spotlight.

The inaugural event received over 90 entries this year, showcasing the depth of talent as well as the need for opportunities for original dance-making in South Africa.

ACDC Duet Xchange is determined to celebrate the art of the duet, which is a form that is intimate, immediate and deeply human. 

The opening night, DXCHANGE 1, will unfold as a collaborative platform bringing together leading voices in contemporary dance. Audiences can expect contributions from Janine Booysens, Marlin Zoutman, Deborah McFadden and Anderson Carvalho, creating a shared creative space that celebrates artistic exchange and innovation between local and international practitioners.

DXCHANGE 2 will shift into a performance and competition platform, where shortlisted choreographers present newly created duet works before a live audience and judging panel. Finalists include Aaghier Isaacs, Nicolas Laubscher, Awonke Mtonjana, Michael Halim, Mbongeni Moyake and Lusindiso Dibela, alongside guest companies Gain Collective and Oorleef Dance Project. Winners of the ACDC Duet Xchange will receive a R30 000 Jury Award and the opportunity to stage a new work at ACDC Dance Intersect 2027, while the Audience Award winner will walk away with R15 000 - a significant investment into the future of choreographic development in South Africa.

Curated with intention, judged independently

While ACDC Duet Xchange is curated by Carvalho, final award decisions will be made by an independent jury. This is to ensure a fair and objective adjudication process.

In selecting the finalists from over 90 submissions, Carvalho was drawn to works that pushed beyond form into meaning. 

“I was looking for a distinct movement language -something that moves beyond geometry into feeling,” he explained.

Carvalho added: “Work that is contemporary but grounded. Work that tells a story through the body - where imagery, diversity, and narrative are carried clearly through the movement. The duet demands honesty, and I was looking for artists who could hold that truth.”

Carvalho also believes that this is a platform for the future.“This is about creating space,” he said. 

“We are building a platform where choreographers are empowered to take risks, collaborate meaningfully and be seen. The duet is one of the most honest forms in dance - it demands connection, vulnerability and precision.”

Programme details:

Day 1 Highlights (May 22):

Convergence - Janine Booysens

Speak the Hidden - New World Dance Theatre

New work - Northern Dance Project

Intimacy of the Skin - Anderson Carvalho

Day 2 Highlights (May 23):

Unraveled - Aaghier Isaacs

Tainted – Nicolas Laubscher

Salt in My Mouth - Awonke Mtonjana

Parasite - Michael Halim

The Third Day - Mbongeni Moyake

By My Stripes I Shall be Known - Lusindiso Dibela 

Guest works: Discord (Gain Collective), Onrus (Oorleef Dance Project) 

When young cancer sufferer Creashy Maart shared her brave message of hope on Friday, she never thought she would make the impact that she did. 

The 19-year-old warrior from Mitchells Plain was told last week that doctors could no longer do anything for her, after she was diagnosed with cancer in January.

Maart said she's received love and support from many who were inspired by her story.

“Seeing everyone share my story has been amazing.

“It makes me feel inspired and it’s heartwarming. And on Sunday afternoon as I gave a speech, I said that in the morning my chest was tight, and then I wasn’t sure if I wanted to do it. Then something told me, ‘Do it, you can’.

“And after I made the decision, I felt so calm, and I felt better.

“My mommy is devastated, but she is getting so much support, and any parent would [be devastated]. 

“I just want to live my life now; it doesn’t matter whether it’s small or big. I just want to live. 

“I am just grateful that I can talk, being here and being able to encourage and inspire and to give the next person hope.”

Maart was diagnosed with lung issues when she was just two weeks old and received a new set of lungs last year.

She explained on her Back-a-Buddy account that “they finally discovered that I have cancer (kaposi sarcoma) on the lungs”.

When she and her family were told that there was nothing more that they could do for her, she vowed to give others a fighting chance by donating R10 000 of the money that was meant for her treatment to help a four-year-old battling with stage 4 neuroblastoma and a nearly two-year-old battling with leukemia.

Speaking to the Kids-Can Foundation Facebook page, she said: “My message is to keep fighting. I want to help those who don’t have a voice and those who can’t speak for themselves…"

On Sunday afternoon, hundreds of people showed up in support of her struggle at a Park-Off, organised by Kids-Can Foundation and a number of car clubs, at her Woodlands home and Westgate Mall. 

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Leinster head into the business end of the season on the verge of making history as they chase an unprecedented EPCR Champions Cup and United Rugby Championship double.

The Irish giants were unbeaten throughout the Champions Cup league phase, often resting frontline players in the URC to ensure their squad peaked for Europe. That strategy has paid off handsomely, with Leo Cullen’s side powering into Saturday’s final in Spain against defending champions Bordeaux Bègles.

Leinster’s route to the final has underlined their status as Europe’s form side. They swept through the pool stages before overcoming Harlequins, French heavyweights Toulouse and English club Northampton Saints in the knockout rounds.

Heading back to Bilbao ✈️ pic.twitter.com/FXJTG94q6j

— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) May 17, 2026

Should they add a fifth title in Europe’s premier competition this weekend, attention will quickly turn to the URC, where South African teams could yet spoil the party.

Leinster finished second in the league standings behind the Glasgow Warriors, ensuring a home quarter-final and semi-final should they progress. A final in Scotland would then await should the top two seeds both advance.

Should Leinster achieve the first part of their dual mission in Bilbao, a URC quarter-final against the Lions awaits in Dublin next weekend, with the Johannesburg side aiming to continue their breakthrough season after qualifying for the play-offs for the first time in the URC era.

Should Leinster progress, a likely semi-final against the Stormers looms. The Cape side remain dangerous knockout opponents and one of the few teams with a proven record of troubling Irish opposition in recent seasons.

No team has previously lifted both the Champions Cup and URC trophies in the same campaign, leaving Leinster within reach of a landmark achievement.

The City of Cape Town’s Urban Mobility Directorate has started with roadworks in Thornton, Maitland, Cape Town CBD and Newlands.

The work will be done between 7pm and 5:30am, Sunday to Friday. 

The anticipated completion date is June 24, weather permitting and provided there are no unforeseen delays.

The work being done includes the resurfacing of roads along the following routes:

• Thornton: Viking Road between Sipres Avenue and Jakes Gerwel Drive
• Maitland: Voortrekker Road between Koeberg Road and Camp Road
• Cape Town CBD: Philip Kgosana Drive between Christiaan Street and Roeland Street

In addition, extensive patching will be undertaken along the M3 in Newlands between Newlands Forest and the Joyce Newton Thompson Bridge.

"I am pleased that work on this important project is now under way.

"While construction was originally scheduled to commence in April, persistent wet weather conditions across Cape Town necessitated a short delay to ensure the work could proceed safely and effectively," said Urban Mobility mayco member, Rob Quintas.

"I would like to thank residents, businesses and road users for their continued patience and cooperation while these essential roadworks are carried out as part of the City’s ongoing road maintenance programme to keep Cape Town’s transport network safe, reliable and moving efficiently."

The projects follow several essential roadworks projects across Mouille Point, District Six, Woodstock, Observatory, and Epping Industrial, aimed at improving the quality and longevity of road surfaces.

Completion of those upgrades are expected on June 30.

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Sharks owner Marco Masotti has defended his commitment to the Durban-based franchise after a turbulent season that ended in yet another major disappointment for one of South African rugby’s most expensively assembled squads.

New York-based Masotti responded on social media after a supporter questioned whether his investment in the Sharks had become one of the worst in professional sport, after the team’s failure to qualify for the United Rugby Championship play-offs and their underwhelming European campaign.

No. It is an absolute joy to invest in this amazing team. Tough tough season but 3 trophies over the last few and happy to see our team planning for the future. Plus it is a pleasure to contribute to the great city of Durban. There is never going to be a better investment. Go… https://t.co/05bVFnTJ8P

— Marco Masotti (@MarcoMasotti_) May 17, 2026

“In the world of sport investing, has there ever been a worse investment than @MarcoMasotti_ in @SharksRugby? No URC playoffs, lost to Sale, all-round terrible,” supporter Jaun-Pierre Pretorius posted on X.

Masotti, however, remained firmly supportive of the project.

“No. It is an absolute joy to invest in this amazing team. Tough tough season but three trophies over the last few and happy to see our team planning for the future. Plus it is a pleasure to contribute to the great city of Durban. There is never going to be a better investment,” he replied.

While the Sharks did lift silverware in recent seasons, expectations were far higher this year for a squad packed with Springboks and international talent. Instead, inconsistency, injuries and instability once again undermined their campaign.

The biggest turning point came with the coaching reshuffle that saw John Plumtree step aside before former Sharks winger JP Pietersen initially took over in an interim capacity. Pietersen later earned the role permanently as the franchise looked to reset its direction after another underwhelming season. 

The Sharks were also crippled by injuries to several senior players throughout the campaign, especially in the backline, preventing the side from building momentum or consistency in selection. Jordan and Jaden Hedrikse,

Grant Williams and Ethan Hooker are just some of the Springbok backs forced to miss large chunks of the season, while the experience of veteran lock Eben Etzebeth was sorely missed due to suspension and later injury.

Yet, amid the frustration, there were encouraging signs for the future.

Young backs such as Zekhethelo Siyaya, Vusi Moyo, Jaco Williams, Bradley Davids and Litelihle Bester emerged as bright prospects, while teenage fullback Luan Giliomee impressed sufficiently to secure a move to the Bulls ahead of next season. Centre Jurenzo Julius has also shown glimpses of his enormous potential when given opportunities.

Is this the future of the @Springboks ? 😮

Zekhethelo Siyaya making his mark in his debut @Vodacom #URC season 💥

Don’t miss a minute - LIVE on SuperSport 🔥#SHAvZEB pic.twitter.com/uoJAshZlKo

— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) May 16, 2026

The franchise is also entering a period of significant transition, with Springboks Siya Kolisi, Marvin Orie and Grant Williams among the experienced players departing Kings Park. Williams’ exit, however, has already been addressed with the signing of former Saracens scrumhalf Ivan van Zyl, as the Sharks continue reshaping their squad in pursuit of long-awaited consistency.

For Masotti, despite another painful campaign, the belief remains that the Sharks’ long-term future is still worth backing.

A CRACKDOWN by the City of Cape Town targeting koesister and vetkoek vendors in Hanover Park has left many aunties fearing for their livelihoods

This, after they were served with City of Cape Town notices warning them to stop operating business from their homes or face possible fines and imprisonment.

The drama started when a husband and wife in the area were served with the notice stating that an inspection was carried out at their property on March 6.

The findings of the inspection were that the couple was operating a “house shop” from their home.

The notice said: “The property is a Resident 1 Zone in terms of the development management scheme, which constitutes schedule 3 of the City of Cape Town Municipal Planning By-law, 2015.

“You are hereby instructed to cease the unlawful conduct and to comply with the provisions of the By-Law/zoning of the property within 30 days by ceasing to operate the house shop.

“In terms of section 133(2) of the By-Law, a person is liable to a fine of R800 000 or imprisonment not exceeding 20 years, or to both a fine and such imprisonment.”

Chairperson of the Newfields Village Community Representative Forum and land and housing coordinator of the Hanover Park Civic Organisation, Gary Hartzenberg, said the forum was disgusted and dismayed by the City’s “threat” against residents and uncles trying to make ends meet by selling koesisters and vetkoek.

“The City of Cape Town cares nothing for the poor and the working class," Hartzenberg said. 

“We want to know, if I sell koesisters for 20 years, why must I adhere to the bylaw now?

"Just because I have a separate entrance built next to my house, because it is on my property?”

On May 9, a meeting was held between homeowners and foreign national spaza shop operators, where residents heard that approximately five landlords had allegedly received the same notice.

The City of Cape Town denied targeting residents selling koesisters, vetkoek and other baked goods from home, saying enforcement action relates to “house shops” operating as formal businesses in residential areas.

Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews took to breaking down the technicalities in defence of the City's action. 

He said: "A home occupation would be a small-scale business activity conducted inside a dwelling. It is primarily secondary to residential use and has limited external impact (traffic, signage, customers, noise). A house shop is more retail-oriented activity conducted from a dwelling. It often includes direct sales to walk-in customers and has higher external impact in terms of increased foot traffic, deliveries, signage and stock storage. A house shop requires additional approval (consent use) under zoning rules.”

During the 2024/25 financial year, City clinics conducted 683 638 blood pressure screenings, while 4 486 residents were newly diagnosed with hypertension.

While observing World Hypertension Day on May 17, the City said hypertension, or high blood pressure, does not necessarily present with symptoms, which is why it is called the silent killer.

Of concern, the City said, was that more than 2 200 residents aged 18 - 44 were newly diagnosed during the year.

"High blood pressure often develops without symptoms, which is why regular screening matters, even if you feel healthy.

"While hypertension is more common in older persons, we are also seeing younger residents affected, which is a reminder that no one should assume they are too young to get checked.

"The good news is that screening is quick, free and available at all City clinics, including through the City’s youth-friendly services, which are designed to make health care accessible and welcoming for young adults," said mayco member for health, Francine Higham.

All City clinics offer routine blood pressure screening during visits, while residents can also make use of the City’s Healthcare Appointments System to book clinic visits in advance.

Residents are also encouraged to adopt practical, everyday habits to reduce their risk of developing hypertension and other non-communicable diseases.

This includes limiting salt intake - particularly from processed and fast foods such as chips, processed meats, instant meals and takeaway options - being physically active for at least 30 minutes most days of the week and choosing more fresh foods like fruit and vegetables where possible.

Reducing or avoiding tobacco use and limiting alcohol consumption are also key steps in protecting long-term health.

For those diagnosed with hypertension, adherence to prescribed treatment and regular follow-up visits are essential.

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Residents in Hout Bay are raising concerns over dogs being allowed to run freely on local beaches, despite regulations prohibiting unleashed animals in certain areas.

Last week, resident Samantha Larson was walking her two dogs on the beach when an unleashed dog approached them.

According to Larson, the dog initially appeared playful, but the situation quickly escalated when her dogs felt threatened by the animal repeatedly coming towards them.

Larson said she held tightly onto her dogs’ leashes, but managing two dogs while trying to control the situation proved difficult. The owner of the unleashed dog reportedly arrived shortly afterwards and managed to regain control before any injuries occurred.

"I understand that the dog perhaps wanted to play, but approaching another dog in that manner without its owner around was a bit risky, and anything could have happened," she said.

In a separate incident, another Hout Bay resident was walking on the beach when an unleashed dog ran towards him.

Although the dog appeared playful, it jumped on him and scratched him before the owner intervened and apologised.

Adam Hughes said: "While many dog owners may want to allow their pets to run freely, consideration should be given to other beachgoers who may not be comfortable around dogs. Perhaps find secluded areas that are more appropriate, especially spaces on the beach which are not being widely used by the public."

Ward councillor Roberto Quintas said he had not received complaints about the matter for some time, but confirmed that signage is displayed at both beaches outlining the applicable rules regarding dogs.

Quintas said bylaw transgressions could result in fines and warned that in cases involving dangerous animals, the City’s animal control unit, together with the SPCA, could intervene to remove dangerous animals.

He reminded residents to follow beach signage and act responsibly in order to avoid injuries, conflict, possible prosecution, and the potential euthanising of animals involved in serious incidents.

Quintas added that he would request increased visibility from neighbourhood safety officers at the beaches to ensure bylaws are enforced where necessary.

"I will request that our NSO deployment be more visible at the beaches and intervene as is required and prescribed by the law where necessary," he said.

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Western Cape MEC for Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers has announced that significant progress is being made in the cleanup of debris from a major rockfall on the Oudtshoorn–Cango Caves road.

The road has been closed since May 15, and officials are focused on making it safe for motorists before reopening. Simmers noted that progress is being made, but the road remains closed for now.

It previously said progress is being made to clear the major rockfall between Oudtshoorn and the Cango Caves.

In an update on Sunday, Simmers said, “Safety remains our top priority. While debris is visible on the roadway, engineers have determined that removing it could immediately trigger secondary rockfalls, placing workers and road users at serious risk.”

“Specialist rope access teams will first stabilise the mountainside by dislodging unstable sections of rock and securing the rock face.”

He said once the process has been completed, teams will begin removing the existing debris from the road.

“Due to a number of variables linked to the stability of the rock face, a definite timeline for reopening the road cannot be communicated at this stage.”

He said once the project reaches a point where a more definitive timeframe can be provided, further updates will be issued.

Motorists travelling to the Cango Caves have been advised to use the alternative route via the MR363, travelling along the R62 towards Calitzdorp before turning off towards Buffelskloof and Matjiesrivier.

“This is a gravel road, and road users are urged to drive slowly and with caution.”

Simmers thanked residents, businesses and visitors for their patience and understanding while this important work is underway.

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Cape Argus

A Cape Town family who experienced a horror tyre bust incident as three criminals were lurking in the bushes were scared off after a traffic officer stopped to assist the mom and her children.

The incident occurred on Friday evening at about 7.30pm on Vanguard Drive, near the Samora Machel informal settlement.

She said in a statement on social media that her kids were with her in the vehicle when they were left stranded, as the rim of one of her wheels was bent.

She explained: “As a parent and mother, I prayed so hard not for me but for my kids. They cried out of fear of being hurt or killed, as that is a known spot.

“I called 112 and spoke with a gentleman named Basil, who reassured me that he would try his best. I let my kids lie flat and put all the lights off in the car. Basil called me back and advised that help is on the way.

“A few metres away, we saw three males who walked to the opposite side of Vanguard and stood there for a few minutes before making their way back to the side I was stranded on. 

“Two of them disappeared into the bush and slowly made their way towards us. At the moment, God sent His angel, Inspector Arnold from the traffic department, and they retracted.”

She added that while waiting for just 10 minutes for the inspector, it felt like forever. 

She said he protected her family and waited with them until a tow truck operator known to him stopped and changed her wheel.

The officer also escorted the family to a nearby garage to check on the other wheels.

The mom added: “Inspector Arnold, may you and your family forever be blessed.”

Jacobs said: “Inspector Arnold from the City’s Traffic Service arrived and stayed with the family, arranged a tow truck, and escorted them to a garage to check the other wheels before ensuring they got home safely.” 

Motorists are reminded to phone the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700 and to ensure that this number is saved on your cellphone in the event of an emergency.

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Cape Argus

The Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (Codeta) announced the introduction of a new cashless payment system. 

Codeta chairperson, Nceba Enge, said the organisation will officially launch the system on June 1.

The new system will require commuters to use cards that will be scanned when entering taxis.

He said: “We are introducing a new cashless system in our taxi industry. Our customers will now be using cards, which they will scan when getting into our vans. 

“By doing so, we are also trying to protect them in the morning when they are going to work and when they are coming back home.”

Enge said cameras would also be installed inside taxis as part of the new system to help improve safety and accountability within the industry.

He acknowledged that transitioning to the new technology may present challenges during the initial stages of implementation.

Some commuters have welcomed the introduction of the system, although concerns remain about how it will work in practice.

Taxi commuter Esethu Saliwa said this was a positive step as similar systems were already being used in other forms of public transport. 

She, however, added: “These systems will have challenges, and sometimes the devices might not scan. Taxi drivers should exercise caution and patience with commuters.”

Another commuter, Ayanda Maboyana, said: “I feel that there will be more challenges and I prefer the cash payment method.”

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Cape Argus

In a shocking revelation during a parliamentary session, police disclosed that 837 rape cases were closed in the past three financial years because the victims could not be traced.

This alarming statistic follows a recent report indicating that rape survivors in the Western Cape had been struggling to provide necessary evidence due to alleged shortages of rape kits at numerous police stations — a claim that SAPS had previously denied.

The reported shortage sparked a sharp debate between police and GBV organisations, while the SAPS insisted the thousands of Adult and Pediatric Sexual Assault Evidence Kits were in stock.

Sources at the time claimed over 20 police stations and FCS units lacked D1 (adult) and had few D7 (child) kits.

This month, DA MP and member of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Lisa Schickerling, argued via a parliamentary question that the 837 rape cases were closed due to victims not being traced, while the police stated in response that 781 were withdrawn and 105 were undetected.

Schickerling remarked that the numbers did not add up: “These are not minor administrative files. These are rape cases. Behind every docket is a victim, a family, and a justice process that should have been handled with urgency, care and precision. The SAPS reply raises two immediate red flags. First, SAPS says 837 rape cases were closed because victims could not be traced. But in the same reply, SAPS then says 781 were withdrawn and 105 were undetected. That adds up to 886, not 837.

“That is a 49-case discrepancy in one parliamentary answer.

“Second, SAPS says none of these cases involved incorrect or incomplete recording of victims’ contact details, and therefore no consequence management was required.

“That answer is difficult to accept without a proper audit trail.”

Schickerling said if a victim in a rape case cannot be traced, SAPS must be able to show exactly what was done before the docket was closed.

“Were addresses verified? Were phone numbers checked?” she asked.

“Were family contacts followed up? Were FCS commanders involved? Were victim support records checked? Were prosecutors consulted? Were any of these cases reopened?

"The public cannot be asked to simply accept that hundreds of rape victims have become untraceable, while SAPS simultaneously insists that no contact details were incorrectly recorded and that nobody was negligent.

“This is exactly why parliamentary questions matter. They force information into the open and allow Parliament to test whether SAPS systems are working as they should.

"The Portfolio Committee on Police must now demand a corrected answer, a station-by-station breakdown, and a full explanation of the tracing process used before rape dockets are closed.

“Justice for victims requires more than slogans. It requires disciplined case management, proper supervision, and real accountability when the system fails.” 

The Cape Argus approached Acting Minister of Police, Firoz Cachalia’s office for their response and has yet to receive feedback. 

MEC for Police Oversight and Community Safety, Anroux Marais, aired her concerns, stating that more should be done during the investigating stage and she understood that detectives worked under strain.

The Western Cape is facing a severe shortage of detectives, with a shortfall of 791 and a 28% vacancy rate.

“Any criminal case that is closed without the full process being properly assessed on its merits through a thorough investigation and the correct application of the law is a direct slap in the face of victims of crime,” she said. 

“Detectives across the country are operating under immense pressure with extremely high caseloads, and this undoubtedly impacts the quality and efficiency of investigations, including victim tracing and follow-up processes. This remains an ongoing discussion we are having with the police. It is deeply unfair that victims are denied proper closure because justice is not ultimately served on alleged perpetrators due to investigative shortcomings or system failures.”

Activists agreed that the numbers were troubling, causing victims secondary trauma.

Siyabulela Monakali, spokesperson of Ilitha Labantu, said: “Equally concerning is SAPS’s assertion that none of these cases involved incorrect or incomplete recording of victims’ contact details, and that no consequence management was required. The inability to trace victims in cases of this nature cannot be treated as a routine administrative matter. It raises serious concerns about whether sufficient measures were taken before these dockets were closed, including whether contact details were verified, whether alternative contacts were pursued, and whether the necessary oversight mechanisms were followed. This matter once again highlights the ongoing institutional shortcomings that continue to undermine access to justice for survivors of gender-based violence. Public declarations and expressions of concern cannot continue to exist without meaningful implementation and measurable accountability.”

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Cape Argus

The Investigative Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) has not commented on claims that alleged crime mastermind Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala offered to give information to law enforcement in exchange for leniency in his corruption case. 

The case relates to the R228 million tender irregularly awarded by SAPS to Matlala’s company, Medicare24 Tshwane District.

This follows media reports claiming Matlala felt used and let down after suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and top police officials failed to shield him from arrest during the SAPS raid at his residence and offices.

Matlala recently appeared in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court with senior police officers who face corruption and fraud charges over the tender. 

Suspended SAPS National Commissioner Fannie Masemola, a co-accused, faces four charges, including breaches of the Public Finance Management Act, fraud, money laundering, and other financial misconduct.

According to reports, Matlala’s lawyers reached out to IDAC with information allegedly linking senior police officers and potentially politicians, to wrongdoing.

When asked about allegations that Matlala was providing information to IDAC, spokesperson Henry Mamothame declined to comment, stating: “IDAC won’t be commenting on your enquiry.”

This occurred despite media reports that he had confirmed consultations with Matlala were finished, and that new information from those discussions led the state to open further investigations.

Sithembiso Mshengu, Mchunu's spokesperson, did not respond to a request for comment. 

Brown Mogotsi, a controversial North West businessman and political fixer arrested on Friday, told the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry last year that Matlala had sought to meet Mchunu during the ANC’s January 8, 2025 celebration in Cape Town. 

He also alleged that Matlala financed ANC members' travel expenses to attend the event.

Mogotsi faces charges for allegedly orchestrating a staged assassination attempt in the Vosloorus matter and for defeating the ends of justice.

Mogotsi previously stated that Matlala paid R149 000 to Gotlhe Travel, a travel agency run by Mogotsi’s fiancé.

Matlala previously claimed he paid former Police Minister Bheki Cele R500 000 in cash on two separate occasions with a view to prevent police harassment and facilitate the return of his seized firearms.

This was revealed during Matlala's testimony before the Parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee in November, where he alleged that Cele solicited a R1 million bribe, part of which was reportedly handed over in Woolworths shopping bags. 

He testified that Cele’s initial demand was R1m, but only R500 000 was paid.

Attempts to get a comment from Cele were unsuccessful.

In commission testimony last year, Mogotsi alleged that Cele accepted a R2 million payment from Matlala, whom he referred to as “John Wick.”

Meanwhile, in a media statement on Sunday, IDAC said it was concerned about rumours and enquiries suggesting it had issued a J50 warrant of arrest for KwaZulu-Natal SAPS chief Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

He urged the public to be vigilant against false information circulating on social media that aims to destabilise and discredit law enforcement in the country. 

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Cape Argus

There is no DNA, just RSA and South Africans, and more particularly Capetonians, have proven this saying to be true at the weekend, standing in unity in support of Creashy Maart. 

The 19-year-old warrior from Mitchells Plain was told on Friday that doctors could no longer do anything for her, after she was diagnosed with cancer in January this year. 

Maart, who was diagnosed with lung issues when she was just two weeks old, finally received a new set of lungs last year, after years of suffering. 

But then tragedy struck. 

She explained on her BackaBuddy account that “they finally discovered that I have cancer (kaposi sarcoma) on the lungs”.

She added: “That was all because of my immunosuppressant medication which awaken the cells. Immunosuppressant medication helps prevent rejection, though it activated the cancer.”

Doctors have now told her there is nothing more they can do.

Saying ‘it’s OK to feel sad’, Creashy added in an interview on the Kids-Can Cancer Foundation Facebook page: “But it’s important to stand up, to fight… even though your heart, even though you are dying and even though I’ve been fighting. 

“My message is to keep fighting. I want to help those who don’t have a voice and those who can’t speak for themselves…

“It doesn’t matter what timeline they give you, even if they don’t give you a timeline, make the most of it - live your life to the fullest. 

“No day is promised, I can be the sickest person on earth, and tomorrow someone healthier can go home…”

Creashy has shown amazing humanity by donating R10 000 to help a four-year-old battling with stage 4 neuroblastoma and a nearly two year battle with leukemia.

The Kids-Can Cancer Foundation called on South Africans to donate to Creashy’s family for her ongoing medical bills and to help the financial burden on them. 

And Capetonians and South Africans banded together in true unity, donating R96 000 of the R100 000 goal in two weeks - with money coming in after her story went viral at the weekend. 

While doctors have given her a timeline, people on social media are praying for a miracle. 

One user wrote: “Lord, I pray that you cover her with your blood. Give her the strength to fight each and every day. I pray for a miracle in Jesus' name. Lord, you did it before, and you can do it again.” 

Another wrote: “May Allah grant you a speedy recovery inshallah. 

Another concluded: “Creashy, your story is not ending here, because God is still writing.”

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Cape Argus

Motorists caught street racing, driving under the influence or using false number plates could soon have their vehicles impounded as the City of Cape Town moves closer to tightening its traffic by-law.

The proposed amendments to the City’s Traffic By-law were approved by the Safety and Security Portfolio Committee this week following a public participation process last year.

The amendments will allow the City to impound vehicles involved in illegal street racing, reckless and negligent driving, drunk driving and cases where motorists are found operating vehicles without valid licences.

The City also wants powers to impound vehicles fitted with false number plates and motorists whose vehicles are found to be causing excessive noise in contravention of the existing by-law.

The latest provision dealing with excessive noise was added after the public participation process concluded.

Safety and Security Portfolio Committee chairperson Mzwakhe Nqavashe said the amendments were aimed at strengthening road safety enforcement and targeting motorists who disregard the law.

“We thank everyone who took the time to participate in the process designed to improve road safety in our city,” Nqavashe said.

He said the amendments would support a “no tolerance approach” to reckless driving behaviour.

Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security JP Smith said the City continued receiving large volumes of complaints linked to dangerous driving behaviour.

“Our Traffic Service cannot keep up with the avalanche of complaints about driving behaviour,” Smith said.

“And that is why we have revised the by-law yet again, to enable our staff to take tougher action against those road users who appear incapable of showing any regard for law, order and the right to life of those around them.”

The public participation process, which ran between September and November last year, received 132 submissions, although only 24 related directly to the proposed amendments.

The amended by-law will now serve before the Mayoral Committee before being tabled at a full Council meeting for final approval before implementation.

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Cape Argus

Relief may soon be within reach for many South African households as the government prepares to tackle the escalating electricity costs that have burdened families for years.

Earlier this week, Minister of Electricity and Energy Kgosientsho Ramokgopa admitted that electricity prices in South Africa have increased sharply over the years, far outpacing inflation and putting a heavy strain on families and businesses.

He said that between 2007 and 2023, electricity prices in the country surged by almost 1 000%, while inflation over the same period rose by about 150%.

"We do appreciate the fact that there has been an exponential rise in the cost of electricity. Just a startling figure, between 2007 and 2023, electricity has gone up by 987%, and inflation has gone up in the same period by 150%," Ramokgopa said.

"That tells us that we are significantly below the disposable income of households.  Household consumption constitutes over 60% of South Africa's GDP, so we are stunting growth in the country. But also undermines the ability of the industry to compete".

To address the rising costs, Ramokgopa said the government is finalising a new electricity pricing policy.

He explained that the policy aims to:

• Introduce structured pricing categories, including considerations for high-consumption users.
• Provide relief for low-income households, including measures like free basic electricity for qualifying families.
• Bring predictability to electricity costs, helping households and businesses better manage their budgets.

The minister said the policy is going through Cabinet approval and is expected to be made public before the end of May.

“We have finished the pricing policy, just going through the approval processes in the government, and we are taking it out to the public. But there's a special category of consumers that deserves particular attention, and really, that's the poor.

Last month, he said that the current free basic electricity allocation for indigent households will also be reviewed.

Ramokgopa said the review of the 50 kilowatt per hour per household free basic electricity will form part of the electricity pricing policy that will soon be released for public comment.

He said the free basic electricity was introduced in 2003 after the realisation that although electricity was available to many of the households, it remained expensive.

He stated that the free basic electricity allocation was determined based on the consumption profile.

“Twenty-three years later, that number is no more relevant because the profile of consumption has changed, and the average poor household now has a television. Some of them have bought electric kettles, they have got refrigerators, so the consumption has changed,” he said.

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Cape Argus

Several roads will be closed and restrictions implemented along the Cape Town Marathon route on May 24.

The route links Green Point, the CBD, Woodstock, Salt River, Observatory, the Southern Suburbs and Sea Point, with several roads in those areas being impacted for several hours on Saturday,  May 23 and Sunday,  May 24.

These cover some major traffic arteries including:  

• Helen Suzman Boulevard  

• Beach Road in Sea Point 

• Beach Road in Mouille Point 

• Granger Bay Boulevard 

• Nelson Mandela Boulevard 

• Somerset Road in Green Point 

• Buitengracht Street 

• Liesbeek Parkway in Observatory and Mowbray 

• Darling Street 

• Long Street  

• Adderley Street 

• Main Road between Woodstock, Observatory and Salt River 

The City advised that parking restrictions will be implemented on several roads in the race footprint from Friday, May 22, to ensure a car-free route.

 Key areas include Green Point, Sea Point, the CBD, District Six, Woodstock, Observatory, Salt River, Mowbray, Rondebosch and Newlands.

 Residents and motorists are urged to adhere to the no-parking notices, as vehicles parked in the restricted areas will be towed. 

Cape Town Marathon organisers have planned for alternative and secure parking in areas where residents rely on on-street parking.

Affected residents can contact the Cape Town Marathon race office at comms@capetownmarathon.com for information on alternative parking arrangements. 

Comprehensive information on road closures and parking restrictions are available here. 

Transport and parking  

Runners and spectators going to the start and finish in the Green Point Precinct for the peace runs, trail and marathon are reminded there will be little to no access to parking in the precinct. 

The Cape Town Marathon has put together a transport plan that includes park and ride, MyCiTi shuttles, a special train service and a bicycle park. 

On Saturday, May 23, the marathon will run a shuttle service from the V&A Waterfront, the CTICC, Civic Centre and Thibault Square MyCiTi stations to the start line outside DHL Stadium for athletes participating in the 5km and 10km peace runs, as well as the trail runs.  

These will operate between 5:30am and 5:30pm.  

 A park and ride system, with a shuttle service and parking, will operate from Century City and UCT on Sunday, with the first buses leaving at 5:30am and the last bus to the start line departing at 6:30am.  

The first return bus to Century City and UCT leaves at 11:00 from the MyCiTi Stadium Station, with the last bus departing at 5:30pm.

A free MyCiTi shuttle to the start line will operate from the Civic Centre, Thibault Square and CTICC between 5:30am until 6:45am on Sunday pre-race. The return bus will operate from 11am – 5:30pm post-race. 

For more information on the transport options, visit the Cape Town Marathon website. 

For those taking the MyCiTi shuttle from the Civic Centre station, the City of Cape Town will open its parking bays for Cape Town Marathon runners on Sunday. 

The parking bays, accessible from Hertzog Boulevard incoming and on Civic Avenue, will be available on a first-come, first-served basis from 05:00. 

The parking will remain open until 6pm on Sunday.    

The marathon will also impact service on several MyCiTi routes, including in the inner city, Sea Point, Camp’s Bay, Hout Bay/Hangberg, through Woodstock and Salt River. 

For more information on the MyCiTi service disruption, visit www.myciti.org.za.

Spectator cheer zones  

The City is activating its vibrant hydration station and cheer zone outside City Hall to keep the energy high as runners pass through the city centre. 

Members of the public are invited to gather at the 29.9km mark on the Grand Parade, in front of City Hall, to cheer on participants as they make their way towards the finish line. 

A lively minstrel group, DJ and dancers will help lift the runners’ spirits and celebrate the occasion. 

The festive atmosphere will not be limited to Darling Street and spectators are encouraged to line the route and be part of this historic event. 

The Cape Town Marathon has compiled a list of the best spectator viewing points along the route:

• Start areas on Fritz Sonnenberg Road and Beach Road, Green Point 

• 6,5km mark at the N2 off-ramp (near Searle Street, Woodstock) 

• 15,3km mark at the Palmyra Junction Shopping Centre 

• 17,2km mark outside Rondebosch Park on Campground Road 

• 20km – 22km mark on Rondebosch Common 

• 26,7km at the Salt River Circle 

• 27km – 29km mark along Albert Road and Newmarket Street, Salt River 

• 30,7km – 32,1km on Government Avenue, onto Orange and Long streets 

• 34km – Green Point Main Road with KFM outside the Primedia building 

• 36,3km – Sea Point Promenade 

• 40km mark along Beach Road in Sea Point 

• The Finish on Vlei Road in Green Point

For more information on this and other events in Cape Town, visit: www.eventsincapetown.com 

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Cape Argus

Despite social media claims that a Phoenix truck driver who went missing after his vehicle was swept away by floods in Wolseley, Western Cape, authorities and family members are still desperately searching for Poovin Nairainsamy.

Claims that Nairainsamy had been found and was admitted to a hospital in Ceres surfaced at the weekend, but no official confirmation has been made, leaving his family in anguish as they await news.

Authorities and his family members have since checked local hospitals, but there has been no trace of Nairainsamy.

His Scania R580 truck was later discovered completely wrecked downstream near the R46 outside Wolseley.

Authorities said the vehicle showed the sheer force of the floodwaters that had swept the vehicle away.

His wife, Roma Narainsamy, 39, from Ormford in Phoenix, said they were devastated as search and rescue teams continued to comb the area for clues.

“My husband had only started this job about two months. He has been a truck driver for the last five years.

“He drives for Ubuntu Logistics, which is based in Johannesburg. The last time I spoke to him was at 9pm on Monday. We spoke for about two hours and after that conversation we stopped communicating because there was no cellphone connection,” she said.

According to Roma, Nairainsamy was travelling on the N1 while transporting a load of sugar to Cape Town when severe weather conditions struck the region.

“Since that day I have been trying to get a hold of him. I tried on Tuesday but the calls were just not going through. We believe his disappearance is related to the heavy flooding in Cape Town.

“The sad part is that his truck was found but not him. All efforts have been put in place to find him. Hospitals were checked and it was all clear.”

Search and rescue teams returned to the site where the truck was found in an effort to locate Nairainsamy or uncover any further evidence that may assist in the search.

“I spoke to his boss earlier (Friday) and he said unfortunately there were no updates,” Roma added.

The family’s anguish has been compounded by the upcoming birthday of the couple’s young son.

“We are devastated at home. Our son’s ninth birthday is on Sunday. My husband was meant to come back home on Saturday just in time to celebrate our son’s birthday,” she said.

Describing her husband’s passion for his profession, Roma said trucking was more than just a job for him.

“My husband loved driving long distances and being a truck driver. His eyes light up whenever he spoke about trucks.”

As hope remains that he may still be found, Roma made an emotional plea for answers.

“I just want my husband to be found and brought safely home to us,” she pleaded.

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Cape Argus

While it is true that not every household will be able to live in every high-demand suburb, cities must still be intentional about ensuring that people who work in economic centres have reasonable access to housing, transport, and opportunity, says Eva August, CEO of Century 21 South Africa. 

As Cape Town remains one of South Africa’s most desirable residential markets, August says that demand continues to place upward pressure on rentals, especially in the CBD, City Bowl, and Atlantic Seaboard.

“In the Cape Town CBD, rental pricing varies significantly depending on the size, building, amenities and location, but current market listings commonly start from around R12 000 to R15 000 per month for smaller apartments, with two-bedroom units often moving closer to the R18 000 to R25 000 range and above.” 

The real estate agency says once rental, transport, school fees, utilities, food and general living costs are considered, living in the CBD becomes increasingly out of reach for ordinary working households.

The CEO says the solution is not rent control in isolation, because that can discourage investment and reduce supply over time.

She says the more sustainable answer is to increase appropriate housing supply, speed up planning approvals, release well-located land for mixed-income development, encourage private-sector participation and improve reliable transport links between residential nodes and employment hubs.

“Cape Town’s strength has always been its desirability, but desirability must be matched with accessibility. A healthy property market is one where investors, homeowners, tenants and working families can all participate.

"That balance will require partnership between government, developers, banks and the property industry.” 

There is a strong rental demand in Cape Town, with a median enquired price of R12 350/month-58% above the national median of R7 800 that we get on the portal, says Adriaan Grové, CEO of MyProperty. 

He says Cape Town renters are also notably more prepared than the rest of South Africa, which points to genuine urgency:

• 74% indicate their supporting documentation is ready to apply, vs 62% nationally.
• 50% are looking to move in immediately (vs 43% nationally), with a further 35% planning to move within a month, meaning 85% of enquirers are ready to move within 30 days.

“When the people who staff a city's economy-nurses, teachers, paramedics, junior professionals, retail managers, hospitality workers, public-sector clerks-can't afford to live in or near it, the city stops functioning as an integrated economic and social system. It becomes a place that consumes labour without housing it.”

The consequences cascade across transport, public services, social cohesion, business costs, and ultimately the city's economic competitiveness, Grové says. 

“Transport quietly becomes a second rent.” 

Rental prices in the Cape Town CBD and broader City Bowl have increased materially over the past few years due to sustained demand, semigration into the Western Cape, limited housing supply in central areas, and ongoing demand from both local and international tenants, says Fritz Swanepoel, CEO of Leapfrog Property Group.

He says current 2026 market indicators suggest:

• A typical 1-bedroom apartment in the CBD/City Bowl now rents for approximately R10 000 to R18 000 per month, depending on location, building quality and furnishing.
• A 2-bedroom apartment in the CBD/City Bowl generally ranges between R14 000 and R25 000+ per month.
• In premium Atlantic Seaboard areas such as Sea Point, Green Point, Clifton and Camps Bay, rentals can increase significantly beyond these levels.

The Western Cape remains South Africa’s most expensive rental province, with average rental levels materially above the national average, he says.  

According to Leapfrog Property Group, the commonly used affordability benchmark globally is that housing costs should ideally not exceed around 30% of gross monthly household income. 

Using that benchmark:

• Rental of R18 000 per month would require a household income of roughly R60 000 gross per month to remain financially sustainable.
• Rentals in the R25 000+ range require significantly higher household incomes that fall outside what many traditional middle-income families earn.

As a result, the group says many working professionals and middle-class families are increasingly being pushed toward surrounding suburbs or alternative residential nodes where rental costs are lower, and space offers better value.

“Importantly, this trend is not unique to Cape Town. Similar affordability pressures are being experienced globally in highly desirable urban lifestyle cities where demand consistently exceeds housing supply.” 

Cape Town’s attractiveness, including semigration trends, lifestyle appeal, tourism demand, international investment, and perceptions around governance and infrastructure, continues to place pressure on pricing upward, says Swanepoel. 

He also described a situation where the middle-class workers cannot afford to live in or near the CBD as ultimately both an economic and urban-planning challenge.

When middle-income workers cannot afford to live near economic centres, he says cities typically experience longer commuting times, increased transport costs, greater traffic congestion, pressure on surrounding suburbs, and gradual socioeconomic displacement from high-demand urban nodes.

Over time, the CEO says this can create a disconnect between where people work and where they can realistically afford to live.

“However, from a property market perspective, pricing is fundamentally being driven by supply and demand dynamics rather than purely speculative pricing. Cape Town currently faces exceptionally strong demand combined with constrained housing supply in high-demand areas.” 

In their view, Swanepoel says the long-term solution is unlikely to come from direct rental price controls alone. He says international experience has often shown that excessive regulation can unintentionally reduce investment and housing supply.

According to them, more sustainable long-term solutions are likely to include:

• Increasing residential housing supply.
• Faster approvals for higher-density developments.
• Improving public transport connectivity.
• Encouraging mixed-income housing.
• Unlocking new residential nodes around transport corridors and business hubs.

Cape Town remains one of South Africa’s strongest-performing property markets, but affordability and accessibility will increasingly become key issues requiring coordinated planning between the private sector and government, according to the Leapfrog Property Group. 

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Cape Argus

Lynn Blignaut’s youngest daughter, Ashley Oosthuizen, has spent nearly six years in a Thai prison for a crime she claims she did not commit, after unknowingly signing for a parcel that contained drugs.

But the George mother, who moved to Thailand out of a mother’s love so she could be closer and visit her from behind bars, said she is still on her knees, day in and day out, praying that her daughter can finally walk free and start her life over again.

And that moment could come as soon as July.

Thailand typically considers royal pardon applications twice a year — around the birthday of King Maha Vajiralongkorn in July, and again in December.

During these periods, selected prisoners may have their sentences reduced or, in some cases, be released early.

Oosthuizen, whose sentence was reduced during last year’s pardon process, is now hoping she may qualify again this year, this time for immediate release.

The blonde-haired, lively young woman was just 21 when she was arrested on the Thai island of Koh Samui in October 2020.

That is after she signed for a parcel containing about 260g of ecstasy at Hot in the Biscuit, the restaurant where she worked.

She did so without knowing what was in the parcel.

Her then-boyfriend, American businessman Tristan Nettles, ran the restaurant, and Oosthuizen helped manage it after losing her teaching job during the Covid-19 pandemic.

An optimistic Blignaut said that despite Oosthuizen spending half of her twenties in prison, she remained hopeful and relied heavily on her faith and trust in God.

“Ashley feels better now,” Blignaut, who now lives in Thailand to be closer to her daughter, said.

"She is not languishing in prison; she keeps very busy and the only difference is that she cannot go home."

Blignaut said Oosthuizen had been learning Mandarin since August.

Oosthuizen has always maintained she knew nothing about the drugs inside.

Nettles later admitted he had been involved in drug dealing and publicly said Oosthuizen was innocent.

But under Thailand’s strict drug laws, Oosthuizen was charged with international drug smuggling and faced the possibility of the death penalty.

Her sentence was later reduced to life imprisonment and then to 33 years and four months behind bars.

In 2025, however, the family received what Blignaut called a “small victory” when Thai authorities downgraded the charge from international drug smuggling to drug possession.

The ruling slashed Oosthuizen’s sentence to 13 years and four months and opened the door for her to possibly qualify for future royal pardons in Thailand.

While continuing the fight to bring her daughter home, Blignaut said the ordeal had changed her own life too.

She recently started a humanitarian initiative, Mercy Moves.

Through Mercy Moves, Blignaut helps people who have been trapped or stranded overseas, particularly those affected by false job offers and exploitation.

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Cape Argus

Seven suspects have been arrested in connection with the hijacking of two women and the murder of one of them in Atlantis last week. 

According to reports, the two women from Kleinvlei in Eerste River were hijacked in Kraaifontein and later found in Atlantis on Sunday, May 10, 2026.

A 30-year-old woman was lucky enough to escape naked and with burns and stab wounds to her body. She then alerted security, who informed police.

The other woman was found dead in a burned-out vehicle.

According to Atlantis crime activist, Peter Stoffberg, who was at the scene, the vehicle was found burned out with petrol.

Stoffberg explained: “The women are foreign nationals from Ghana who live in the country. “Apparently, the deceased wanted to start a business. She met with the other woman in Kleinvlei as they arranged that a local man would help them.

“He added more people, which led to the kidnapping, extortion, and robbery.

“They withdrew R30 000 from the deceased’s bank account. Both women were naked in the car, and they burned the car with petrol, but only one managed to survive the attack on their lives. 

She had burn marks on her neck and back.

“The other woman succumbed to her injuries. With the information of the survivor, they managed to track down the suspects and arrest them.”

Police spokesperson Captain FC Van Wyk reported: “Atlantis police registered a murder, an attempted murder, and carjacking following an incident on Sunday, May 10, at about 11.44pm in John van Niekerk Street, Industrial area, Atlantis.

“According to reports, a 30-year-old female was found with burn wounds to her back and a stab wound in her neck near a factory at the mentioned address. She was found by a security guard who immediately informed police.

“Before she was taken to a nearby medical facility for treatment, she pointed out the crime scene to the police members, and another unidentified woman was found next to a burned-out vehicle. She was declared deceased by the medical personnel.”

Van Wyk confirmed that the matter is being investigated by the Provincial Detectives Organised Crime Investigation: Anti-Kidnapping Task Team, who made a breakthrough in the case and arrested seven suspects between the ages of 20 and 40 years. 

They appeared in the Blue Downs Magistrate’s Court for the first time last Thursday.

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Cape Argus

In a heart-warming story, a family has been reunited with a traffic officer who escorted them through bumper-to-bumper traffic to get an expectant mom to give birth on time. 

Three years ago, Merle Botes from Belhar went into premature labour at 23 weeks with baby girl Scarlett, and her hubby rushed her to Life Vincent Pallotti Hospital. 

But they got stuck in heavy N2 traffic. Merle recalled that day (November 25,2023), telling the Cape Argus sister publication, Daily Voice: “My pregnancy was very difficult. A week prior, I was supposed to get a stitch so that I could not go into labour too early, but they could not do it because I was open too far already.

“But the doctors still gave us a few days. That morning I woke up and there was a dash of blood. When I felt the warmth, I screamed because there were just clots coming out.”

As the couple hit the N2, she panicked at the sight of the packed-up traffic. 

But her husband acted quickly, asking a nearby traffic officer to assist them. That’s when Officer Blaauw stepped in. 

Merle added: “She escorted us to Life Vincent Palotti, and they gave me steroid injections to keep her back for a few days. I was in the hospital that whole week, and the injections worked for a few days, but after 48 hours, the labour started again.

“I bled again and they couldn’t hold her back anymore. 

“The biggest part was when the doctors told me that if he had to sit in that traffic, Scarlett would have come out, and there wouldn’t have been any medical assistance to help such a small baby, but God was on our side.”

When the Botes family returned home with their new family member, Scarlett had to be placed on a mic-key tube to be fed through her stomach for two years due to her lungs being immature.

The family always wanted to thank the officer, so they reached out to the City of Cape Town to thank the officer for helping them that day.

The mom added: “Seeing Officer Blaauw again was like a happy moment. I always said to my husband that I want to give back to her and make her feel that what she has done, we appreciate her very much.

“She could have said that she is stationed to stand there and can’t leave, but she didn’t say anything and just asked what hospital and we were on our way.”

Officer Blaauw, who escorted the couple to the door of the ICU, said she did not think anything of saving the baby’s life, as it was her job.

She said: “I am glad that I could help.”

Three men were shot and killed in a violent attack in Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands on Sunday morning, while a woman and another man were left wounded.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Novela Potelwa said two armed men walked into a house in Jakaranda Street, Groendal, and opened fire.

The incident happened at about 9.55am.

Three men, all believed to be between the ages of 30 and 35, died at the scene.

A woman and another man survived the attack but were injured.

They were rushed to hospital.

Potelwa said reports from the scene indicate that the attackers entered the home and fired multiple shots before fleeing.

"Crime scene experts [scoured] a scene where three persons were shot dead and two others injured by gunmen in Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands on Sunday morning," Potelwa said.

"Reports from the scene indicate that two gunmen entered a home in Jakaranda Street, Groendal on Sunday morning and fired several shots.

"Three men were killed on the scene, a woman and another man were injured.

"The victims are between the ages of 30 and 35."

She said Franschhoek police have opened murder and attempted murder dockets.

"Provincial Serious Violent Crimes detectives have since taken over the investigation," Potelwa said.

"No arrests have been effected yet and the motive for the shooting incident is the subject of the investigation currently underway.

"The search for the perpetrators of the crime continues."

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Cape Argus

The Western Province Cricket Association (WPCA) has joined forces with Gift of the Givers to aid communities across the Western Cape devastated by severe flooding. 

Newlands Cricket Stadium will serve as an official collection point for in-kind donations from Monday.

This comes after the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has reportedly confirmed that 18 people have died across the country following severe weather conditions that have brought widespread heavy rain, flooding, and strong winds since May 4.

The Western Cape has been the worst-affected province, accounting for 11 fatalities.

A national disaster has been declared across six provinces, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, North West, Free State and Mpumalanga.

The severe weather has displaced thousands of people, particularly those living in informal settlements, with many residents affected in the Western Cape alone.

The WPCA said the floods had caused widespread destruction across the province, affecting areas from the Cape Metropole to Worcester, the Breede River Valley, Rawsonville, Ceres, Villiersdorp and Elim.

“Tens of thousands of people have been affected, with homes washed away, infrastructure damaged, crops destroyed, and many communities left without access to essential resources.”

WPCA CEO Corrie van Zyl said, “While Western Province Cricket Association and Newlands have also felt the effects of the recent storms, it has not been as traumatising as it has been for many communities across the Western Cape.”

Van Zyl said their hearts went out to those in smaller and rural areas who had suffered immense loss.

“I’ve personally witnessed the devastation, and it is deeply moving. We are proud to partner with Gift of the Givers, who continue to do an incredible job providing relief in times like this.

Van Zyl said the collaborative initiative aimed to provide urgent humanitarian relief and restore dignity to affected families.

The WPCA called on the public to donate new essential items, including mattresses, blankets, linen, towels and face cloths, clothing, non-perishable food items, bottled water, hygiene packs, soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes, roll-on deodorant and body lotion, toilet paper, sanitary pads and diapers.

Donations can be delivered directly to Newlands Cricket Stadium from Monday.

“For those wishing to assist financially, contributions can be made online via Gift of the Givers or BackaBuddy, helping to sustain ongoing large-scale relief operations.”

The WPCA also called on stakeholders, corporates and members of the public to unite in support of the initiative and help bring relief to communities in need.

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Cape Argus

JP Pietersen believes the Sharks’ emphatic season-ending win over Zebre Parma offered an encouraging glimpse into the future, as the Durban franchise begins an important rebuilding phase ahead of next season, with the arrival of scrumhalf Ivan van Zyl from Saracens the latest piece in the puzzle.

The Sharks ended a frustrating United Rugby Championship campaign on a high with an entertaining 54-19 victory at Kings Park on Saturday, but the result also marked the end of an era for several senior players leaving the union. Among those saying goodbye were Siya Kolisi, Le Roux Malan, Marvin Orie, Jean Smith and Grant Williams.

Pietersen paid tribute to the departing players and the impact they made at the union.

“When people put value into the jersey, the union and the organisation, you can only say thank you,” he said after the match. “It was special seeing Siya get that standing ovation when he came off. The contribution he made to this group and this union was massive.”

The Hollywoodbets Sharks are pleased to announce the arrival of scrum half Ivan Van Zyl to the Shark Tank from the 2026/27 season! 👏

The experienced halfback joins us from Saracens!

A warm Durban welcome, Ivan! 🖤🦈 pic.twitter.com/mzpiQaClw2

— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) May 17, 2026

While the departures bring significant experience to an end, Pietersen believes the emergence of several young players throughout the campaign has softened the blow.

He described the final-round debuts and performances from the next generation as proof that the Sharks’ long-term planning is beginning to take shape.

“It’s sad because some guys are leaving, but at the same time it’s exciting because new players are starting their journey,” he said. “As I always say, this is the end and the start. That’s the circle of life in rugby.

“The balance of this group is beautiful. We’ve got the pieces now, it’s just about how we put it together.”

The arrival of veteran scrumhalf Van Zyl also fills a critical void created by the departure of Springbok scrumhalf Williams to Japan. The former Bulls player is expected to provide valuable cover and experience alongside Jaden Hendrikse in a squad that also boasts promising young No 9s Bradley Davids and Ross Braude.

A word from Coach JP pic.twitter.com/p57kWiHTX1

— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) May 16, 2026

Pietersen said the squad would now benefit from a mental and physical reset after a demanding season before returning with a renewed mindset.

“It’s important for the players to get away from rugby and spend time with family,” he said. “But when we come back, the challenge is not just to compete – it’s to win.”

The coach also urged supporters to remain patient as the Sharks continue to develop a young squad capable of becoming genuine contenders in the coming seasons.

“It’s a process,” Pietersen said. “We’re building in the right direction and I’m confident we’ll be in a much better place next season with a proper pre-season.”

Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze has been pleased with the team’s overall performance this season, even though he believes there is still room for improvement.

Chiefs will face Chippa United in their final Betway Premiership match on Saturday (kick-off 3pm) at Moses Mabhida Stadium. A win would see Chiefs further consolidate third place on the log, after already securing qualification for next season’s CAF Confederation Cup.

Moreover, they would also match their best points tally (57) in recent seasons, having achieved that feat during the 2019/20 campaign when they finished second under coach Ernst Middendorp.

Granted, Chiefs’ third-place finish marks an improvement from last season, when they ended outside the Top 8. However, considering they were in contention for at least three trophies – the league, Nedbank Cup and CAF Confederation Cup – their season could certainly have been better.

90 + 6’| #AMA 0 : 1 #CHI 🟥

Full-time score: AmaZulu FC 0 : 1 Kaizer Chiefs (Lilepo 68’)

Betway Man Of The Match: Brandon Petersen #Amakhosi4Life #BetwayPrem #KCOneVoice #KCOneFamily #LoveAndPeace. pic.twitter.com/IJg922Ktc0

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) May 16, 2026

“It was a good season, it could have been better, that’s for sure,” Kaze said. “We know that we have laid a solid foundation for better things in the future.

“We wanted to be high up and compete for the title until the end. But we couldn’t do that, although there are lessons that have been learnt. So, they’ll need to be taken into consideration going forward.”

One player who will have few complaints about his season is Brandon Petersen. The Kaizer Chiefs captain has enjoyed his best campaign at the club since arriving, keeping 18 clean sheets and conceding 23 goals in 35 matches across all competitions. Kaze revealed what has been the turning point for the 31-year-old, who had fallen down the pecking order last season.

“Firstly, it’s the number of minutes because he didn’t play much last season. He only played in the final of the Nedbank Cup,” Kaze explained.

Betway Man Of The Match: Brandon Petersen #Amakhosi4Life #BetwayPrem #KCOneVoice #KCOneFamily #LoveAndPeace. pic.twitter.com/KGIwMupXa3

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) May 16, 2026

“Secondly, he works hard with the same attitude, mentality and energy. I would like to say to players that good things happen to good people. He’s a player with tremendous human qualities. I am happy that this is happening to him. He deserves everything.”

Petersen picked up yet another Player of the Match award when when Chiefs beat AmaZulu 1-0 in their penultimate game of the season at Moses Mabhida – a performance that strengthened calls for Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos to include him in his final World Cup squad on May 25. Without sounding too persuasive toward the Belgian regarding the goalkeeper, Kaze said Petersen’s qualities have spoken volumes this season.

“I don’t want to comment on whether he’ll get a call-up or not. We are going to know soon enough,” Kaze said. “The national team coach is an experienced coach who knows what he wants for his team.

“We need to let him choose the players that he wants in a transparent way. I just wish to see Brandon Petersen going to the World Cup because he deserves it based on his qualities.”

Chiefs will head into their final game of the season without talisman Glody Lilepo. The Burundian scored the winner against Usuthu and took off his shirt in celebration, resulting in him receiving a second yellow card after having been cautioned earlier in the match.

“It’s an unfortunate situation that happened to Lilepo. He’s an experienced player, so he should know better,” Kaze said.

“It’s football, so I understand his emotions when he scored. A human being without emotions is not a human being.

“We got the three points, so everything is good. We just need to concentrate on the last game against Chippa.”

A Metro Police K9 Unit operation led to the discovery of drugs with an estimated street value of more than R2.7 million in Bellville on Thursday.

According to Cape Town Metro Police spokesperson Superintendent Ruth Solomons, officers were conducting patrols at Parksig Villas, described as a known drug hotspot, at around 1:20pm when the discovery was made.

Superintendent Solomons said K9 Virus was deployed to conduct a sweep of the parking area and soon alerted his handler to a vehicle.

"K9 Virus' handler let him out of the vehicle to conduct a sweep of the parking area, and soon enough, Virus stopped next to a vehicle, indicating to his handler that he had found something," she said.

Officers then inspected the hatchback through its windows and noticed two bags containing mandrax tablets inside the vehicle.

After obtaining permission from the Provincial Narcotics Unit to force entry into the vehicle,  Superintendent Solomons said officers uncovered 51 bags of mandrax, seven loose mandrax tablets, 300g of cocaine and 300g of tik in the boot of the vehicle.

The drugs are estimated to have a street value of just over R2.7 million.

The confiscated drugs were booked in at Bellville police station as abandoned property, while the vehicle was taken to Stikland for further investigation by police.

Western Cape MEC of Police Oversight and Community Safety, Anroux Marais, said the operation demonstrated the value of specialised policing units.

“This confiscation represents far more than just the seizure of narcotics. Every shipment of drugs removed from our streets disrupts the criminal economy, weakens gang networks and helps prevent further violence, addiction and destruction in our communities.

"The City of Cape Town has consistently shown its commitment to improving public safety through substantial investments in additional law enforcement officers, specialised units, technology, training and operational resources. These investments are yielding results and adding important policing capacity within the broader safety environment of the Western Cape,” she said.

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Despite securing a coveted home quarter-final in the United Rugby Championship (URC), the Stormers head into the play-offs with more questions than answers after an underwhelming finish to the regular season.

John Dobson’s side sealed third place on the log with 60 points, and the right to host a quarter-final at Cape Town Stadium, but recent performances have lacked the fluency and physical dominance that made them one of the competition’s most dangerous teams.

Last weekend’s dramatic 38-38 draw with Ulster was followed by Friday night’s 22-16 defeat to Cardiff. Both displays exposed worrying inconsistencies on both sides of the ball.

The attacking rhythm and defensive edge that defined their 2022 title-winning run – and the form that carried them through an unbeaten opening eight matches this season – has faded in recent weeks. 

Their forward pack, traditionally a major weapon, has struggled to impose itself consistently, while injuries to key players such as skipper Deon Fourie have disrupted continuity at a crucial stage of the campaign.

Defensively, the Stormers have looked vulnerable out wide and around the fringes, with opponents repeatedly generating momentum through quick ball and direct carries. Cardfiff exploited those weaknesses effectively and are likely to target them again when the sides meet in the quarter-final on May 30.

The Welsh side shaded the ruck battle and the statistic for number of defenders beaten, while the Stormers failed to capitalise on their superior number of line breaks and will need to work on both areas.

We've got Cardiff coming to Cape Town for a @Vodacom #URC Quarter-Final.

Tickets are on sale, so get yours now and be there for this big knock-out game at DHL Stadium.

🎟️https://t.co/hfrcqRDDOr #inittogether pic.twitter.com/Xywz4HEdrQ

— DHL Stormers (@THESTORMERS) May 16, 2026

“It was our first URC away loss this year outside the country, and a very disappointing one at the wrong time,” Dobson admitted afterwards.

However, there is still the belief that the Stormers can raise their intensity when knockout rugby arrives. Their squad contains significant play-off experience and few teams in the URC can match the atmosphere generated in Cape Town.

“We know what’s in this group and we will rebuild and regroup quickly,” Dobson said.

Much will depend on whether players such as Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Damian Willemse and Evan Roos can rediscover top form, and the team can rediscover their attacking cohesion.

The Stormers remain contenders, but right now they hardly look like champions-in-waiting.

National Coloured Congress (NCC) leader Fadiel Adams is out on bail, with his legal team indicating that the focus will now shift towards preparing to challenge the State’s case.

Adams, who was arrested on May 5 at the parliamentary precinct in Cape Town, was released on R10 000 bail on Friday following his appearance in the Pinetown Magistrate’s Court, marking a significant turn in a matter that has drawn widespread public attention.

After his release, he told eNCA: “I’m going to take two days off, and the gloves come off. That’s all I’m going to say for now. Two days from now, then we get vicious.”

Bail was granted with strict conditions. These include that he may not have any contact with State witnesses, including members of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT), SAPS officials, Durban Metro Police officers or Department of Correctional Services employees linked to the case.

He is also required to report twice a week, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, to the charge office at Mitchells Plain Police Station between 6am and 8pm, and has been warned not to interfere with witnesses or the ongoing investigation. The matter has been postponed to August 14 for further proceedings.

Speaking after the ruling, Adams’ attorney, Bruce Hendricks, said: “From our side we are happy that he got bail. 

“The magistrate properly applied the law and gave due consideration to all the factors we placed on record since day one and balanced that with the State’s opposition to release.

“People always forget the purpose of bail is to secure the attendance of an accused at trial and not punitive in nature. We will now start getting ready to fight the State’s case.”

The NCC, meanwhile, released a statement, saying: “We welcome the release on bail of Fadiel Adams and trust that due legal process will now proceed fairly, transparently, and without prejudice.

“We call for calm, restraint, and respect for the judicial process from all sectors of society. 

“Supporters, critics, civil society organisations, and political stakeholders alike should allow the legal system to function independently and without interference.”

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The Lions may have left Limerick in southern Ireland bruised after their defeat to Munster, but coach Ivan van Rooyen believes his side’s historic qualification for the United Rugby Championship (URC) play-offs marks another important step in the franchise’s steady rise.

The Johannesburg outfit secured a Top 8 finish for the first time in the URC-era, setting up a daunting quarter-final clash against Irish giants Leinster at Dublin's Aviva Stadium on May 30.

Van Rooyen admitted to a mixture of pride and relief after navigating a long and demanding campaign to finally achieve one of the squad’s key objectives, after their 24-17 loss to Munster this past Saturday.

“Obviously, it was a goal from the beginning,” he said, of finishing in the Top 8. “I think we’ve gradually been getting better.

Such a long season with so many challenges and ups and downs. So, to come at the end of the normal season and to be in the top eight is obviously a proud moment for us. Hopefully, we can keep on building momentum and just keep on getting better.”

The Lions pushed Leinster and Munster hard during their two-match tour, but once again paid the price for missed opportunities and lapses in execution at critical moments. Van Rooyen pointed to costly defensive errors against Leinster and poor accuracy in the set-piece against Munster as major reasons why the Lions failed to turn competitive performances into statement victories.

“(Saturday night) we had some opportunities again to score one or two tries more. We just didn’t,” he said. “And in the attacking zone, we lost a couple of line-outs, and then you can’t apply that attacking pressure.

Still, the coach believes there was significant value in facing two elite Irish sides immediately before the play-offs.

“We are talking about quality opposition, tough conditions and quality teams,” Van Rooyen said. “That is definitely Leinster away, Munster away.

"Like I said, consistently just not good enough for us to capitalise on that, but there is also enough positives to really get excited about that opportunity. I think in both fixtures, there were some good glimpses of good physicality, momentum, quick ball at stages because they can put you under so much pressure in these conditions." 

Regular Season ✅

The Quarter-Finals are HERE 🔥@Vodacom #URC | #REPRESENT pic.twitter.com/ysf2S4P9ot

— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) May 16, 2026

The Lions now face an anxious wait over several injury concerns ahead of their return to Dublin.

Powerful loose forward Ruan Venter appears unlikely to feature again this season after suffering what Van Rooyen described as a potentially serious knee injury, while prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye has also been a major loss.

“Both of them are part of our momentum givers and momentum stoppers,” Van Rooyen explained. “They’re really special in that regard. So if you lose that kind of player, obviously he does leave a void.”

The coach also confirmed concerns over injuries to Henco van Wyk and skipper Francke Horn, while Richard Kriel failed his HIA assessment but could still return for the Leinster clash.

Despite the setbacks, Van Rooyen backed the depth in the squad, calling on players such as Siba Qoma, Sebastian Lombard and RF Schoeman to rise to the challenge.

The Lions were still weighing up whether to remain in Ireland for the week or return to South Africa before the quarter-final, with recovery and injury management likely to determine the decision. But regardless of travel plans, Van Rooyen believes the enormity of facing the defending champions  in Dublin will provide all the motivation his side needs.

"It’s just can we rise to the occasion and can we find a way to play our game against them,” he concluded.

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou said they were disappointed not to collect three points against Durban City in their penultimate game of the season — rather than the fact that they failed to wrap up the Betway Premiership title.

Pirates and Durban City played to a goalless draw at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, dropping two invaluable points that left them second on the log with 66 points, two behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.

Given the fact that Sundowns have wrapped up their domestic season, a win for Pirates would have seen them draw level with the Brazilians, but move to the top of the log due to a superior goal difference.

As such, the script has now changed. Pirates need to beat Orbit College at Mbombela Stadium in their season finale to leapfrog Sundowns and finish top of the standings with 69 points — ending a 14-year league title drought.

Abdeslam Ouaddou and the Bucs are ready to go all the way in Mbombela next week ⏩🏆#BetwayPrem | #SSDiski pic.twitter.com/hvLK3OwDqx

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) May 16, 2026

Resplendent in a sharp new suit, Ouaddou seemed dressed for the confirmation of their championship status against the Citizens. However, he denied having title thoughts before the game, unlike most supporters.

“We wanted to collect maximum points, and I want to be clear that we were not thinking about the title because a lot of people were celebrating before the game even started. They got out the champagne before the end,” Ouaddou said.

“We are clear: the target was three points in front of our fans. It didn’t happen. But if you remember what I said before the start of the season, the title would probably be decided in the last game. And we are still in that conversation.”

Pirates’ trip to Mbombela won’t be easy. Orbit need all three points to try and salvage their top-flight status as they occupy the relegation play-off spot with 24 points — three ahead of bottom-placed Magesi FC and just one behind 14th-placed Marumo Gallants.

JP Pietersen believes the Sharks finally gave supporters a glimpse of the team they are striving to become after ending a disappointing United Rugby Championship season with an emphatic 54–19 victory over Zebre Parma at Kings Park on Saturday.

The Sharks produced one of their most entertaining attacking displays of the campaign in a match that doubled as an emotional farewell for several departing players — including Springbok captain Siya Kolisi.

Pietersen said it was important for the side to reward loyal supporters after a difficult campaign.

“I think it’s a good ending for the fans that have been with us through difficult times,” said Pietersen.

“That’s what I asked from the boys — to give the fans something they can talk positively about. We don’t have to look back at the last game negatively now and hopefully we can take this feeling into pre-season.”

“It’s beautiful to see the young guys put their hands up,” he said.

“Sometimes opportunities come through injuries and then players have to step in and take their chance. Vusi Moyo was nervous early on, which is normal, but then he grew into the game and really put his hand up," he said of the teenage fly-half who scored a try and kicked five conversions on debut.

“You look at players like Jurenzo Julius, Jaco Williams, Lilli Bester, and Zekhetelo Siyaya — that’s exciting for us. Our depth is much better than it was earlier in the season.”

Pietersen also believes the Sharks are slowly beginning to establish a clearer identity. “I think we showed resilience throughout the season,” he said. “We were fast, physical, and relentless today — and that’s the identity we want to build going into next season.”

Thank you, Siya Kolisi 🖤🦈 pic.twitter.com/epsHBgaJLX

— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) May 16, 2026

The emotional post-match scenes also left a mark on the former Springbok wing, particularly as several long-serving players bid farewell to the Durban outfit.

Kolisi received a standing ovation after scoring twice in his final appearance in the black and white jersey, while departing players such as Jean Smith, Le Roux Malan, and Grant Williams were also acknowledged.

“When people put value into the jersey and make the organisation better, you can only thank them,” Pietersen said. “It’s sad saying goodbye, but it’s also exciting because while some players leave, others make their debut. That’s the circle of life in rugby.”

Pietersen’s message to supporters was one of patience and optimism. “It’s a young group and we’re building in the right direction,” he said. “Sometimes the progress may not happen as quickly as people want, but it’s a process. I’m very confident we’ll be in a much better place next season.”

A word from Coach JP pic.twitter.com/p57kWiHTX1

— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) May 16, 2026

The Sharks fielded a youthful match-day squad, with Pietersen revealing that roughly 60% of the group was under the age of 23. That youthful energy was evident throughout the contest as the home side played with pace, ambition, and physicality, while experienced figures such as skipper Andre Esterhuizen and Bok prop Ox Nche helped provide balance.

“The balance was beautiful,” Pietersen said. “The young guys brought energy, but then you also had the experienced guys controlling things when needed. Ox looked like one of the young players out there with the way he was moving and carrying.

"There will always be errors, that’s part of rugby, but it’s beautiful to see what this group can become. We’ve got the pieces now — it’s about putting it together.”

Despite the Sharks failing to reach the URC play-offs, Pietersen insisted the campaign had not been without progress. He pointed to the emergence of several exciting youngsters as a major positive heading into next season.

Orlando Pirates’ dream of winning their first Betway Premiership title in more than a decade will go down to the wire against Orbit College at Mbombela Stadium on the last day of the season next Saturday afternoon.

This comes after they dropped two crucial points during a goalless draw with Durban City at a sold-out Orlando Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Pirates remain second on the log with 66 points, two behind log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, whose fate is still out of their hands as they have completed their season and possess an inferior goal difference. City, meanwhile, will be pleased with the result. They consolidated an impressive return to top-flight football by securing a top-eight finish, having already won the Nedbank Cup a few weeks ago.

Pirates’ inability to wrap up the title at home will sting. The Ghost had filled the stadium in anticipation of witnessing the team win the trophy for the first time in 14 years. The Bucs arrived with clear intentions: win the match and go big on the celebrations ahead of the Orbit clash in Mbombela. But City had ambitions of their own — to delay and possibly spoil the party.

Abdeslam Ouaddou and the Bucs are ready to all the way in Mbombela next week ⏩🏆#BetwayPrem | #SSDiski pic.twitter.com/Ozx2GqbuD2

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) May 16, 2026

The Citizens stuck to their mandate, holding Pirates from start to finish. City’s game-plan was based on defensive discipline as they allowed Pirates to dominate possession, only to break up play in the final third and look to catch the hosts on the counter-attack.

Clad in a sharp black suit and crisp white shirt, Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou was dressed for a celebratory occasion. He did not undermine City either, notably introducing Siphiwe Selepe into the starting line-up in place of Makhahleni Makhaula.

Making his first appearance of the season, the midfielder repaid the faith shown in him. After shaking off some early jitters, he blended well in the engine room alongside Thalente Mbatha to bring defensive stability.

Standing restlessly on the touchline, Ouaddou cajoled his troops. Oswin Appollis seemed to heed the instructions, unleashing two thunderbolts at goal, but neither yielded the breakthrough as the City rearguard stood firm to block the danger.

Pirates’ search for an opener needed a change of plans when Yanela Mbuthuma limped off the pitch to be replaced by Evidence Makgopa. Makgopa tried to bulldoze his way past the Citizens’ defence, but he was stopped in his tracks, forcing the two teams to head into the break level.

Pirates returned for the second half with renewed vigour, with usual suspects Appollis and Relebohile Mofokeng taking the game to the visitors. However, the Sea Robbers still could not sail into the calmer waters of a lead. Frederick Asare, who had been impressive since the first whistle, continued his fine exploits by making crucial saves to salvage an important point for his team.

Pirates are now left with no choice but to beat Orbit College in the final game of the season if they are to be crowned champions of the land.

Siya Kolisi left Sharks fans with the perfect parting gift at Kings Park on a sunny Saturday afternoon in Durban, with the veteran loose forward producing a vintage display capped by a first-half brace of tries in a 54–19 victory over Zebre Parma in their final United Rugby Chmapionship match of the season.

The Bok skipper sparked the home side into life with a lung-busting 50-metre surge after a cagey, error-strewn opening threatened to put a damper on his farewell appearance.

Kolisi was hauled in just short of the line, but the touch paper had been lit and the Sharks suddenly looked a different side on attack, carrying with far greater purpose under the inspirational leadership of skipper Andre Esterhuizen.

With the Zebre defence stretched, winger Jaco Williams crossed in the far right corner in the 14th minute to hand the hosts a deserved 5–0 lead. But a defensive lapse allowed the visitors to hit back through a well-worked try by Malik Faissal in the 20th minute.

The ultimate send off 🫡

With JP smiling from the booth, Siya Kolisi is saying goodbye to @SharksRugby in style 😎

Watch it all unfold LIVE on SuperSport 👀@Vodacom #URC | #SHAvZEB pic.twitter.com/oNAZjjzB9U

— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) May 16, 2026

Where earlier Sharks sides this season may have allowed the match to drift, Kolisi responded emphatically — powering over from a line-out maul five minutes later to restore the lead. Debutant flyhalf Vusi Moyo added the extras to make it 12–7.

Home supporters were then treated to a stunning debut try by teenage full-back Zekhetelo Siyaya, whose brilliant sidestep carved open the Zebre defence after slick handling from prop Ox Nche in the build-up.

Kolisi struck again from another powerful line-out drive just before half-time as the Sharks carried a commanding 26–7 advantage into the break. The home fans rose to cheer him when he was substituted after the 60th minute, his sterling effort earning him the Player of the Match honours.

Williams nearly grabbed his second try shortly after the restart, but Moyo crossed two minutes later after another strong carry from Esterhuizen. The Junior Bok star capped an impressive debut with five successful conversions as the Italians struggled to contain the Sharks’ momentum.

Is this the future of the @Springboks ? 😮

Zekhethelo Siyaya making his mark in his debut @Vodacom #URC season 💥

Don’t miss a minute - LIVE on SuperSport 🔥#SHAvZEB pic.twitter.com/uoJAshZlKo

— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) May 16, 2026

There was still time for tries from Emmanuel Tshituka, departing centre Le Roux Malan, and replacement scrum-half Ross Braude as the home side piled further misery on Zebre despite two late consolation scores.

Replacement flyhalf Jean Smith slotted both late conversions in his final outing for the Durban outfit as the Sharks finally ended a disappointing season on a high with a comprehensive win.

Points Scorers

Sharks — Tries: Williams, Kolisi (2) , Siyaya, Moyo, Tshituka, Malan, Braude. Conversions: Moyo (5), Smith (2).

Zebre — Tries: Faiissal, Gesi, Quattrini. Conversions: Montemauri (2)

Orlando Pirates’ attempt to win the Betway Premiership in their penultimate clash against Durban City at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday (3pm) will require cool heads, which is why the team can’t afford to get carried away before the final whistle.

Pirates will host City at home sitting second on the standings with 65 points. However, they have a superior goal difference of eight over leaders and current champions Mamelodi Sundowns, who lead by three points.

Given that Sundowns have wrapped up their league campaign to focus on continental matters, a win for Pirates against the Citizens should be enough to ensure they finish top of the standings for the first time in 14 seasons with a game to spare.

𝐍𝐄𝐗𝐓_𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇

🆚 @DurbanCity_FC
🗓 16 May 2026
⏰ 15:00
🎟 SOLD-OUT
🏟 Orlando Amstel Arena
📺 @SuperSportTV | @Official_SABC1

⚫⚪🔴⭐#OrlandoPirates#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/XB6GeJdVZr

— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) May 14, 2026

With Pirates set to enjoy home-ground advantage in front of a sold-out crowd, most of the Ghost and neutrals believe they will be crowned kings of local football come Saturday night as they have won the domestic treble, having lifted the MTN8 and Carling Knockout Cup as well.

Thulasizwe Mbuyane, who was part of Pirates’ famous squad that won the team’s last league title and domestic treble during the 2011/12 season, has cautioned the team against getting carried away when they face City.

“They must just go in, play their usual game and target a win. They mustn’t be flashy or attempt to do anything spectacular. They must approach the game like any other on Saturday,” Mbuyane said.

“They mustn’t put themselves under pressure by trying to do things they aren’t used to. The most important thing is for the players to enjoy themselves.

“They mustn’t force things because there’ll still be another game (against Orbit College at Mbombela Stadium on May 23) to play, even though the easier option would be to win against Durban City. That way, they’ll head into the last game in celebration mode.”

Pirates have not found themselves on the cusp of illustrious success by chance. Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has been the mastermind behind Pirates’ outstanding season, which is why Mbuyane lauded the management for backing him after a sluggish start.

“Most importantly, I think it’s been the patience shown by management that stood out,” Mbuyane said. “The coach was new and, when he arrived, he lost the first two league games (against Sekhukhune United and Marumo Gallants).

“Everyone started criticising the coach, and that gave opponents the impression that things weren’t stable at the club. But management kept faith in the coach.”

Mbuyane stressed that the coach wouldn’t have succeeded without the players, which is why he believes newcomers such as Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi and Lebone Seema adapted seamlessly at the club and blended well with senior players such as Makhehleni Makhaula, Deon Hotto and Thalente Mbatha.

“The consistency of the core group of players the coach worked with proved decisive because they worked hard for him,” Mbuyane said. “They also understood how much they wanted to win the league.

“The technical team also made good signings. Giving opportunities to young players showed that these youngsters could deliver for the team, and they didn’t disappoint.”

Pirates’ jewel Relebohile Mofokeng has enjoyed a fantastic second half of the season, reaching double figures (10 goals) for the first time since his promotion, after a slow start to the campaign.

However, during his below-par start to the season, players such as Appollis and Moremi carried the baton, guided by experienced campaigners such as Hotto and Mbatha. 

“This team has talent and senior players who were there to guide the youngsters,” Mbuyane added. “So, the combination worked very well. The youngsters didn’t let them down, especially those who were promoted.”

Euphoria could sweep across most parts of Soweto and the country as Orlando Pirates stand on the brink of returning to the pinnacle of South African football by Saturday night.

Pirates will face Durban City in their penultimate Betway Premiership match at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday afternoon (3pm kick-off). Should they win, they will climb to the top of the log with 68 points, level with Mamelodi Sundowns, who would trail on goal difference.

Given that Sundowns have already wrapped up their league campaign, the standings would ultimately mean that Pirates finish as champions of the land regardless of what happens in their season finale against Orbit College at Mbombela Stadium next Saturday (3pm kick-off).

Winning the league title would complete Pirates’ domestic treble, having already lifted the MTN8 and Carling Knockout Cup. Coincidentally, the last time Pirates won the league and completed a domestic treble was during the 2011/12 season.

A successful treble pursuit would speak volumes about the coaching credentials of Abdeslam Ouaddou, who would have won all three trophies at the first attempt.

Granted, Ouaddou inherited greater squad depth than most of his predecessors, including Jose Riveiro, but it still required planning, strong synergy and a never-say-die attitude for him to get the best out of his players.

The duo of Oswin Appollis and Relebohile Mofokeng has flourished under the Moroccan this season, and winning the league would be a testament to their exploits, strengthening their cases as frontrunners for the coveted PSL Footballer of the Season award at the end of the campaign.

Students across South Africa are facing a crisis as transport costs continue to rise sharply, with taxi, bus, and train fares increasing significantly. 

Many students, particularly those from low-income families, are struggling to afford daily commutes, which is impacting their ability to attend classes. 

As a result, some students are compelled to walk long distances, skip classes, or forgo meals just to reach their school or campus. 

Rising transport costs are causing significant stress, frustration, and a sense of hopelessness among many students. The constant worry about affording daily travel to school or campus often leaves them feeling emotionally drained. 

This financial strain directly impacts their academic life, leading to poor concentration and academic performance, as many are forced to arrive late, miss classes, or walk long distances to save money.

Student Siya Dikiza highlighted the financial difficulties he faces, stating, “Sometimes I choose between buying lunch and paying for transport.” He explained that he is trying to avoid putting extra strain on his family, who are already offering substantial support.

Although the train is a cheaper alternative, Dikiza stopped using it because of its unreliability. He recalled instances where he would arrive at the station on time only for the train to be delayed, causing him to be late for class.

Dikiza stated that the high cost of transport in Cape Town is a significant barrier, particularly for prospective university students needing to travel for application purposes but lacking the necessary funds.

“Going to UCT/UWC or CPUT using a bus before 8am from Khayelitsha is almost R40 if not R50,” he added, highlighting the financial burden.

Bongeka Dodeni, another student, explained that her frequent use of Uber is primarily motivated by safety concerns. "The trains that are reliable are the early ones between 5am and 6am, but those are the times when robbers are more likely to rob you. I cannot risk that," she shared.

The rising petrol prices are exacerbating the situation, especially since taxi associations are also planning to increase their fares.

Bongeka lamented, "We do not know where to turn. Students face a difficult choice: they must either pay for costly accommodation close to campus or opt for cheaper housing and endure the expense and hassle of transportation," she said.

Bongeka emphasised that the government should implement free or discounted public transport passes (bus, taxi, and train) for students, drawing a comparison to the free travel currently afforded to police officers on Golden Arrow buses.

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Cape Argus

South Africa is facing a youth unemployment crisis, with the unemployment rate for young people exceeding 60%.

Each day, throughout Cape Town, thousands of young people face the daily burden of rejection, financial strain, and an uncertain future.

Battling one of the world's highest youth unemployment rates, the country is home to many who feel forgotten and hopeless. The ongoing struggle to secure employment has consequently fuelled rising levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among youth.

Unemployment has taken an emotional toll on Sibusiso Ndlovu (23), a graduate with an honours degree. "At first after tertiary education, I thought I would quickly get a job and help at home, but as months passed I started stressing and disappointed," he shared.

Sibusiso mentioned that the high rate of youth unemployment in the township sometimes makes it feel "normal," but, however; he admitted that "deep inside it hurts."

Sibusiso highlighted the difficulty of dealing with silence and rejection in his job search. "I apply for jobs online and hand in my CVs, but most of the time, nobody responds," he shared.

The financial strain of job seeking is an additional challenge, as he needs money for transport and printing CVs, funds he currently lacks. He explained that social media exacerbates the struggle: "I see people of my age succeeding while I am struggling, I lose confidence and begin to doubt my abilities."

Sibusiso expressed constant anxiety about his future, specifically the prospect of aging without a reliable income source. He noted that the rising cost of living and the high unemployment rate are making life increasingly challenging in South Africa, contributing significantly to his worries.

His family offers emotional support, encouraging him to persevere and never surrender. However, while the encouragement is constant; it remains limited to words, as they are unable to provide financial assistance.

"Being unemployed has profoundly affected my mental well-being," Sibusiso confessed. "There are days when the sadness is overwhelming, and I just stay indoors because I feel like people don't understand what I'm going through. I try to stay strong, but the moments when the sadness becomes too much are difficult."

Sibusiso challenged the common misconception that unemployed youth are lazy or unserious, stating that society often fails to grasp the reality of their struggles.

He emphasised that, in truth, many young people are diligently seeking employment. His recommendation is for people to cease judgment and instead offer greater support to the youth.

Sibusiso stressed the need for the government to enhance career guidance and mental health support services available in townships.

He highlighted that many young people require a secure environment where they can discuss stress and depression openly and without fear of stigma. Furthermore, he called for an increase in job opportunities and skills development programs aimed at youth.

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Cape Argus

The Atlantis community is grappling with a harrowing incident after an 11-year-old girl gave birth, allegedly as a result of prolonged sexual abuse by an individual known to her family.

The child, who gave birth last week, has since been removed from her home and placed in a place of safety.

Residents have expressed their concerns that this level of abuse could be taking place right under their noses.

It is alleged that the child was subjected to sexual abuse over a period of time. The matter is under investigation.

A resident said concerns had been raised not only for the 11-year-old, but also for another minor in the same household.

Residents of Atlantis have expressed outrage on social media, with some claiming the alleged abuse may have gone unnoticed for some time.

The child’s mother has since been arrested and appeared in the Atlantis Magistrate’s Court. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed her court appearance. The child or her mother cannot be identified because the girl is still a minor, and to avoid secondary trauma. 

The spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Eric Ntabazalila, confirmed her appearance. 

“Yes, we can confirm that the mother of an 11-year-old appeared at the Atlantis Magistrate’s Court charged with failure to report a commission of a sexual offence,” Ntabazalila said. 

Atlantis Ward Councillor, Allister Lightburn, also expressed his outrage over the matter. 

“I cannot fathom the idea that an adult will impregnate a child of 11 years old and the mother who is complicit in this heinous crime. Her innocence has been robbed, and she is scarred for the rest of her life. The perpetrators must feel the full might of the law, and I have full confidence in the judicial system,” Lightburn said. 

Janine Passenz, of the Survivors Haven Foundation, a local organisation that advocates against gender-based violence and focuses on youth development, said this was one of the saddest incidents she was aware of.

“This is one of the saddest incidents that I am aware of. It affects you as a mother because an 11-year-old is still a baby. As an organisation, we will follow the case. It must be remembered that she is still a child and needs counselling and support, and if necessary, a place of safety for her and the baby. We cannot further traumatise the child by just posting things on social media,” Passenz said. 

She urged residents to allow the legal process to unfold and to report any suspected abuse to the relevant authorities.

“We must report incidents when we suspect something. More awareness must be raised about Form 22. More awareness at schools, and not just high schools, but our early childhood development centres and primary schools must have awareness programmes. We need to get the spirit of Ubuntu back in communities where your child is my child,” Passenz said. 

When reporting abuse, members of the public will be urged to complete Form 22 as per the requirements of the Children’s Act.

Form 22 is a legal document used for the mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse, sexual abuse, or deliberate neglect. It is completed by professionals (teachers, doctors, police) or community members to initiate an investigation by the Department of Social Development, a designated child protection organisation, or the SAPS.

“Abuse happens every day, and everyone must get involved. We cannot turn a blind eye. Let’s bring the spirit of Ubuntu back into our communities. Let us make use of Form 22 and report abuse,” Passenz added. 

The case against the mother has been adjourned to Tuesday, May 19. 

She is remanded in custody. 

South Africa is currently observing Child Protection Month. 

Child Protection Month is a national campaign that aims to promote the rights, safety, and well-being of children in South Africa, and the theme for 2026 is: “Working together in ending violence against children”.

According to the National Child Protection Register, first to third quarter statistics for the 2025/26 financial year show 8,984 cases of child abuse and 3,258 cases of sexual abuse recorded. 

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Stormers coach John Dobson said his team had been out-passioned by Cardiff on Friday night in a 22–16 win for the Welshmen that could see the Cape team surrender second position on the points table.

The Stormers were still second in the United Rugby Championship on Saturday morning, but five matches were to come later in the day.

“It was a very disappointing performance,” Dobson said. “We give Cardiff all the credit they deserve. They were desperate — and I’m sorry that their desperation meant more to them than our chance to host a series of play-offs in Cape Town.

"I thought their attack and defence were very good. They put us under pressure defensively, got yards on us with a very clever attack, and they were just really desperate.

“We had lots of areas of dominance and lots of opportunities that we wasted, very similar to last week against Ulster,” Dobson said. “We often failed to convert when we were five metres out, and the fact that we didn’t get a behaviour change is a problem for us.”

The Stormers will still host a quarter-final in Cape Town, but Dobson feels they are a long way off being title contenders. “We know what’s in this group, and we’ll regroup quickly. We’re a very bruised team who were beaten by the better team on the night, and we’ll have to do much better than this in the quarter-final.”

The visitors started the game well, and within four minutes they were twice held up over the Cardiff line before lock Adre Smith crashed over. It was the ideal start, especially because Cardiff wing Tom Bowen was yellow-carded during the build-up.

Unfortunately, the Stormers soon after lost hooker Andre-Hugo Venter to injury. In the ensuing period of Cardiff pressure, the hosts' other winger, Jacob Beetham, scored, and the conversion levelled it at 7–7 after 16 minutes.

Cardiff maintained the pressure, and Bowen, back from the bin, made up for his misdemeanour by finishing clinically in the corner to give the home side a 12–7 lead at the end of the first quarter. The Stormers were losing their way, with a scrum penalty going against them, soon followed by a skewed line-out throw. A Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu penalty on the half-hour narrowed the deficit to 12–10.

As tight as the game was as half-time approached, a significant issue was Cardiff’s increasing failure to deal with the Stormers’ set scrum. Not long before the break, Feinberg-Mngomezulu beautifully scythed through a gap but undid his good work with an overpowered pass that the support could not handle.

It got worse for the Stormers when Smith was yellow-carded for a high tackle. The ball was kicked to the corner, and fly-half Ioan Lloyd scored acrobatically at the corner flag. He failed to convert, but his team led 17–10 at the break.

The Stormers fought back, and a strong surge by captain Neethling Fouche into the Cardiff 22 forced a penalty for Feinberg-Mngomezulu to nudge over in the 44th minute. But the Stormers fly-half was soon after penalised for offside, and the subsequent kick to the corner allowed Beetham over for his second try.

Making matters worse for the Stormers, loose forward Ben-Jason Dixon left the field for a Head Impact Assessment, before Feinberg-Mngomezulu fluffed the restart directly into touch.

At 22–13 to Cardiff with 25 minutes to go, the Stormers were fighting for their lives. They seemed to have scored after a bullocking run by Ntuthuko Mchunu, but once again the ill-disciplined Smith cost his team when he dived off his feet into a ruck on the Cardiff try-line. The try-scoring opportunity was squandered, and Cardiff relieved the pressure from the penalty.

It meant that with 20 minutes remaining, the Stormers had to overturn a nine-point disadvantage. They seldom came close, and the game ended with more of a whimper than a bang when Feinberg-Mngomezulu kicked a post-hooter penalty to narrow the final score to 22–16.

Scorers

Stormers — Tries: Adre Smith. Conversions: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. Penalties: Feinberg-Mngomezulu (2).

Cardiff — Tries: Jacob Beetham (2), Tom Bowen, Ioan Lloyd. Conversions: Ioan Lloyd

In a chilling case of domestic violence, a 35-year-old man from Atlantis has been denied bail after allegedly murdering his mother-in-law, Janet Jordan, 67, with an axe.

Moegamat 'Ikie' Tabisher tried to convince the court of his innocence during a lengthy bail application. He now faces serious charges, including murder for the brutal attack and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

The court's ruling has raised significant concerns about community safety in light of the violent nature of the incident.

Tabisher appeared in court in a wheelchair with a cast around his leg. The injuries were sustained after community members attacked and assaulted him on the day of the incident on January 26.

He was officially arrested on February 9 and has been under police guard while recovering in the hospital.

While testifying in his own defence during his bail application, Tabisher claimed that a neighbour murdered Jordan. He told the court he only took away the axe from the neighbour and ran to a vehicle with his box of wine. Tabisher claimed he went to the vehicle to ‘just sit inside’. 

The court heard that Tabisher has 10 other pending matters dating back to 2015, including charges of rape, attempted rape and malicious damage to property.

Tabisher also has a separate ongoing case where he is alleged to have murdered his uncle.

The State vehemently opposed his release, stating that he was not only a danger to the community, but also that his life was in danger, as illustrated by him currently sitting in a wheelchair. 

The State has set out to prove that Tabisher had argued with his wife on the night of the incident after she reportedly denied him sex. He allegedly started assaulting his wife, and his mother-in-law, who had stepped in to save her daughter. She was struck twice on the head.

The vicious attack took place in front of three minor children. 

The court heard that members of the community were trying to assist and assaulted Tabisher when he wanted to flee with his box of wine in one hand and the axe in the other. He was soon found hiding underneath a vehicle near a shopping complex. 

Jordan was rushed to the hospital but died a week later due to the extent of her injuries.

Delivering judgment, the magistrate found Tabisher to be a danger to the community and denied his bail application. 

The matter has been postponed until July 2. 

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Cape Argus

In response to a troubling viral video, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has issued a warning against the illegal handling and misuse of firearms. The video, which has circulated on social media, shows two women recklessly handling and cocking firearms inside a house.

It remains unclear where the video was taken. 

In the video, two women are seen with a firearm each. They can be seen laughing and cocking the firearms at each other. One woman, dressed in a white t-shirt, has a firearm magazine, which has ammunition in it, in her other hand. 

The national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, said from the video, it appears that the women may not be properly trained or authorised to handle firearms. 

@iolnews The viral video of two women recklessly handling firearms has prompted the SAPS to warn that such misuse poses serious risks to both the individuals involved and the wider public. 📷: SAPS #women #handling #firearms #SAPS #warn ♬ original sound - IOL NEWS

“SAPS therefore warns that the reckless handling and misuse of firearms pose a serious danger to both the individuals involved and members of the public. In terms of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000, any person handling or using a firearm must be legally authorised to do so and must be in possession of a valid firearm licence or permit where applicable,” Mathe said. 

Firearm owners also have a legal responsibility to ensure that their firearms are not accessed or used by individuals who do not possess the necessary competency certificates or firearm licences.

Mathe said the registered owner of a firearm may face criminal charges if found to have allowed unauthorised persons access to the firearm.

“The implications may also be significant where the object involved is a toy gun, imitation firearm, or blank gun, particularly if it is used in a manner that creates fear, intimidation, or the reasonable perception that it is a real firearm,” Mathe said. 

She further stated SAPS wishes to remind members of the public that firearms are not toys and should never be used recklessly, displayed irresponsibly, or handled for entertainment purposes, including for social media content.

The public is urged to act responsibly and to report any illegal possession, misuse, or reckless handling of firearms to the nearest police station or anonymously through the Crime Stop number 08600 10111.

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Cape Argus

Sighs of relief filled the Pinetown Magistrate's Court on Friday as Fadiel Adams was released from detention following the court's ruling on his Schedule 1 bail application.

Magistrate Wendalyn Robinson expressed her satisfaction with Adams's eligibility for release, granting him R10,000 bail.

Adams is set to return to court on August 14, as serious allegations regarding his attempts to evade justice continue to cast a shadow over the proceedings.

On Friday, the court heard closing arguments in mitigation and aggravation of his bail application in which Adams’s legal counsel, advocate Yuri Gangai, addressed the court regarding the State’s arguments that their client is a flight risk in that he attempted to evade trial. 

During court proceedings, Adams’s “catch me if you can” conduct was placed under the spotlight.

This was as a result of a TikTok video, before his arrest on Tuesday, May 5, by the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) at the Parliamentary Village, that Adams likened himself to Harrison Ford in 'The Fugitive', indicating that the PKTT went to certain addresses, looking for him and could not find him.  

The State submitted that Adams made a mockery of the unit, which Adams described as a rogue unit, and this amounts to his defeating and obstructing the administration of justice.

Robinson imposed strict bail conditions on Adams, including that he report to the Mitchells Plain police station two days a week, he is prohibited from any communication with any witnesses, SAPS officers, Durban Metro police officers, as well as any members of the PKTT.

Adams is allowed to reside between two addresses - one at a residence in Mitchells Plain and his residence in the Parliamentary Village.

Before concluding proceedings on Friday afternoon, Robinson “implored Adams to respect the criminal justice system as they have respected him”.  

The request was made in light of Adams’s conduct, which led up to his arrest, described as a “cat and mouse game” which showed Adams’s, as the State argued, attempts to evade trial.

Before granting bail, Robinson referred to Adams’s non-compliance with an Equality Court order, after derogatory statements were made in a social media posting in which Adams said “f**k the court”. 

“When our citizens of this country choose to undermine or jeopardise our criminal justice system, then the courts need to take an informed approach and deal with it accordingly.

“What is clear is… that the applicant and what was submitted by his counsel chose to play by his own rules. His contentious behaviour or attitude cannot be ignored. However, what this court must be mindful of is the ultimate fact that the State does have recourse in this regard,” said Robinson. 

The State has accused Adams of having visited Westville Prison/Correctional Centre and conducted two separate interviews on November 2, 2024, and January 24, 2025, with two awaiting trial inmates without authorisation from the investigating team, nor the legal representatives of the inmates.

NPA spokesperson, Natasha Ramkisson-Kara, had said: “These inmates were in custody for two separate matters: one being the Sindiso Magaqa murder, and the other inmate was in custody for a partly heard matter. The State is alleging that the accused recorded the interviews. 

“In doing so, the accused allegedly misrepresented to the various authorities, including the SAPS, eThekwini metro police, and officials at the Westville Prison/Correctional Centre, that he was on official duty. Given this impression, authorities then arranged an official escort for him from King Shaka International Airport to the Westville Correctional Centre and back. Further, the State alleges that he was not officially mandated by Parliament to conduct these visits.”

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Kaizer Chiefs may have already reached their target of qualifying for continental football, but their professionalism and desire to improve on their last impressive points tally (57) compels them to grind for results in the last two matches, though it will be hard.

Chiefs are currently third on the log with 51 points – a tally that was enough to ensure that they cement the spot and qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup next season.

Given their shortcomings in the past few campaigns, including finishing outside the Top 8 in the last two seasons, Amakhosi have done relatively well to be where they are on the log this season.

Thank you Khosi Faithful ❤✌ #Amakhosi4Life #AlwaysHome pic.twitter.com/3F2u5wzZbR

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) May 11, 2026

Things could get better for Chiefs. They could reach 57 points and equal their best recent tally from the 2019/20 season when they finished second on the log under coach Ernst Middendorp.

To achieve that feat, they need to win their last two games against AmaZulu FC at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday afternoon (3pm) and Chippa United at the same venue, same kick-off time next Saturday.

Reeve Frosler, who’s one of the few surviving members from that squad which lost out on the title to Mamelodi Sundowns on the last day of the season, revealed why it will be important to try and match the 57-point tally this season.

“It’s going to be a good building block for us,” Frosler said. “We haven’t reached that amount of points in the last five or six years. If we can win these last two games, they’ll take us to 57 and we’ll be on par with what almost got us the league.

“We’ll also know what will be at stake for next season. So, if we can build on that, we’ll also go on to improve and move higher up the log standings.”

Given that Chiefs have already overcome criticism and negativity to achieve the third-place finish, they understandably feel that they’ve done well this season. Frosler, though, highlighted that it’ll be crucial to maintain their momentum.

“It’s going to be difficult to stay motivated – our aim was to finish in the top three, and we have successfully managed to do that now,” Frosler admitted. “It will be a little bit challenging, but I think as professionals, we’ll still do the job.

“The more we continue to win games, the better for our club. The more we continue doing well, the sooner we’ll be able to start the next phase of things.”

Chiefs won’t have it easy in the last two games, starting with the clash against AmaZulu, who are fighting to consolidate their fourth-place finish on the log, aligning with the vision of club president Sandile Zungu, who wants the club to be among the Top 4 in the country.

“We just need to continue to do what we need to do; how we’ve practised and prepared throughout the week. We need to stick to our plan and go out there,” Frosler said.

“We know that they are going to come out and play because they are fighting for their position on the log. So, it won’t be easy. We just need to be ready and do what we’ve been practising by sticking to it on Saturday.”

If most people could understand that “Rome wasn’t built in a day”, I would imagine that it’s also clear to them that “empires do not collapse overnight, but rather deteriorate over time”. Yet here we are: people still questioning the qualities of Ronwen Williams.

Let me start by conceding that Williams hasn’t been at his best for Mamelodi Sundowns lately. As such, conceding seven goals in their last two Betway Premiership matches of the season was uncharacteristic of him.

His weaknesses not only tainted his image, but he also somewhat played a huge role in handing Orlando Pirates the title on a silver platter, as a win against Durban City on Saturday would crown them champions, ending Sundowns’ eight-year reign.

But be that as it may, Williams didn’t concede simply because he became poor overnight. Far from it. In fact, he had already proven why he is Bafana Bafana’s No 1 and duly deserves to lead the team at the Fifa World Cup next month.

We're not done yet and we've still got to fight! 👆

This is more than a final. It’s a story still being written 🙌#Sundowns #TotalEnergiesCAFCL #AreyengMasandawanaUntilItsDone pic.twitter.com/xJEY6ljRLs

— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) May 15, 2026

Williams’ rise to the top wasn’t easy. He needed to dig deeper and find himself, blocking out the outside noise of comparisons between him and former Bafana Bafana No 1, Itumeleng Khune.

Importantly, he had to allow himself to grow and evolve without being attached to stigmas of the past, such as being labelled an awful goalkeeper after conceding five goals in the 5-0 drubbing by Brazil a few seasons ago.

He has allowed himself to become a knight in shining armour for Bafana, clearly using his previous shortcomings as lessons. So much so that when he conceded five goals again in the thrashing by then world champions France, it wasn’t the scoreline that made headlines, but the number of saves he made.

His growth and maturity as the leader of the Bafana team were further evident at the delayed 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where he inspired the team to a podium finish for the first time in two decades, producing crucial saves in open play and penalty shootouts.

Williams’ efforts didn’t go unnoticed. He was crowned CAF Goalkeeper of the Year after Afcon, both locally and abroad – an achievement previously attained by his Sundowns teammate, Denis Onyango.

Williams’ achievements in Africa reached the global stage, as he became the first Africa-based goalkeeper to be nominated for the Yashin Trophy. He finished ninth.

The travelling between Africa and Europe while playing for Sundowns and Bafana took a toll on Williams. And now the signs are beginning to show – he’s exhausted and bound to experience a dip in form from time to time.

Granted, it must be a hard introspection after the recent two games, especially when his naysayers are celebrating his struggles. But he can’t afford to drop his head now and be eaten by the wolves. Williams must stand up, as the moment to wear his heart on his sleeve for both Sundowns and Bafana has duly arrived.

Sundowns will need Williams as they try to conquer Africa for the first time in nearly 10 years when they face AS FAR in the two-legged CAF Champions League Final, starting at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Sunday (4pm) and ending in Rabat on May 24 (8pm).

This is a tie Sundowns have to win at all costs. It would make up for the team’s blemish in the league and likely spare coach Miguel Cardoso – who is in his third successive Champions League final – from being sacked.

2026 FIFA World Cup hosts, the United States of America, Canada and Mexico, wished Bafana Bafana and the South African Football Association well as they prepare to depart to the global tournament this month. The event was held at the nation's capital in Pretoria. #BafanaPride pic.twitter.com/HTkyBiGrne

— SAFA.net (@SAFA_net) May 11, 2026

A triumph for Sundowns would go a long way. It would boost the morale of Williams and his teammates heading into the World Cup with Bafana in North America next month.

Williams and his troops are set to return to the World Cup for the first time since hosting the tournament in 2010, and they will want to showcase their talent and ambition by at least reaching the knockout stage.

Williams will be central to that mission. He has been one of the driving forces behind the team, guiding players who arrived in the set-up as boys and have since grown into men. That’s why it is shocking when people say he has lost his spark, given what he has already achieved and still looks destined to accomplish.

The Free State Crinums have made an emphatic start to the 2026 Telkom Netball League season, and the return of veteran defender Karla Pretorius could prove to be the missing piece in their bid to reclaim the title.

After falling short against the Golden Fireballs in last year’s final, the Crinums have looked sharp and composed during Power Week 1 in Durban — with 36-year-old Pretorius once again providing leadership, intensity, and defensive steel. Martha Mosoahle-Samm's team topped the standings with a perfect six wins from six matches.

Now, with Power Week 2 set for Johannesburg next week, the challenge becomes even greater as the Fireballs and record six-time champions, the Jaguars, prepare to enjoy home-crowd backing in what could be decisive clashes in the title race. But if there is one player who understands the demands of championship netball, it is Pretorius.

The former Spar Proteas star won three straight TNL titles with the Crinums and enjoyed successful professional stints in both the UK and Australia before returning home. After stepping away from the sport in 2025, she is back captaining the Bloemfontein side with renewed perspective and hunger.

Still competing. Still leading. Still inspiring 👑🔥
TNL Legend Karla Pretorius 🙌#TelkomStandTall #TNL2026 #TelkomNL #TNLLegend@TelkomZA pic.twitter.com/ReM29qPYqK

— Netball South Africa (@Netball_SA) May 15, 2026

“Right now, I see my netball career as complete in the best way,” Pretorius told Netball SA in a recent interview. “I’ve achieved what I set out to, and that gives me a real sense of freedom. I step onto court with pride, contentment, and gratitude. There’s nothing to lose — only an opportunity to give everything I have, every single time.”

That freedom has translated into the composed, high-intensity performances that have long made her one of South Africa’s most respected defenders. Pretorius admits, however, that her comeback was far from straightforward. The former Sunshine Coast Lightning player revealed that her time away from the game followed personal challenges and one of the toughest periods of her life.

“I had to fight my way back, physically and emotionally,” she explained. “November 2025 was one of the lowest points I’ve ever faced. I was at my most unfit, and mentally in a deep hole. But this chapter of my journey will not be defined by the outcome — it will be defined by the courage to start again.”

🆚 𝐅𝐈𝐗𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄𝐒 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝟐

See you soon! 🥳

🏟️ Ellis Park Arena, 22–31 May 2026
🎟️ Tickets available online 👉 https://t.co/hNhOOgSVsU
📺 Matches on SuperSport 👉 https://t.co/OOyJCqmrBP#TelkomStandTall #TNL2026 #TelkomNL@TelkomZA pic.twitter.com/qnyyswj7Pw

— Netball South Africa (@Netball_SA) May 4, 2026

Her influence now stretches beyond the court. Pretorius has also moved into coaching as director of netball at Hoërskool Fichardtpark in Bloemfontein, something she believes has deepened her understanding of the game. “Starting coaching has added a whole new layer to my netball understanding,” she said. “It’s pushed me to think deeper, to see the game differently, and to lead with more intention.”

That leadership has been evident in the Crinums’ fast start to the season, with Pretorius determined to create an environment where her teammates can thrive. “We know the grind. We know the work and we won’t give up until we bring the title home,” she said.

Whether the Crinums can finish the job may depend on how they handle the pressure of Johannesburg in Power Week 2. But with Pretorius back organising the defensive circle and driving standards, they once again look like genuine contenders.

The Premier League’s promoted clubs have finally broken an unwanted recent trend, but one former heavyweight will still suffer the humiliation of relegation as Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United battle to avoid the final drop spot.

In recent seasons, all three promoted teams have routinely gone straight back down to the Championship — highlighting the widening financial and competitive gap between the Premier League and England’s second tier.

That pattern has been halted this season. While Burnley’s relegation has already been confirmed, fellow promoted clubs Leeds United and Sunderland have secured their top-flight status with two matches remaining.

Instead, the relegation scrap has shifted to two established Premier League clubs, with Spurs and West Ham now locked in a tense survival fight alongside already-relegated Burnley and Wolves. Tottenham currently hold the advantage. Roberto De Zerbi’s side sit 17th on the table, two points clear of 18th-placed West Ham and also boasting a superior goal difference after Monday’s 1–1 draw against Leeds.

Plenty on the line in the penultimate Matchweek of the 2025/26 season 👀 pic.twitter.com/PEsdxsg5Lg

— Premier League (@premierleague) May 15, 2026

But Tottenham’s position is far from comfortable. The London club missed a major opportunity to create breathing room after surrendering a lead against Leeds and remain without a home league win since December 6 — a statistic that underlines their alarming slide toward the bottom three. “If we want to win, we have to reduce the mistakes,” De Zerbi admitted to BBC Sport after the draw.

West Ham’s situation looks even more precarious. Nuno Espirito Santo’s men suffered a crushing 1–0 defeat to league leaders Arsenal last weekend, though they were denied a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser when Callum Wilson’s goal was ruled out by VAR.

The Hammers now face a difficult trip to Newcastle United at St James’ Park this Sunday before Tottenham travel to Chelsea two days later. West Ham will then face Leeds at home in their final fixture on Sunday next week, while Spurs are away to Everton at the same time.

A lot can change in the remaining few Premier League fixtures 👀

Where will your team finish at the end of the season? 📊 pic.twitter.com/kDCLfnY0rb

— Premier League (@premierleague) May 14, 2026

“It’s going to be tough. We know it is not in our hands,” said Nuno. “We will fight for it and we will keep on fighting.”

For Leeds and Sunderland, survival represents a significant achievement in a league where newly-promoted clubs have increasingly struggled to compete financially over a full campaign. It also offers encouragement to the Championship's top performers, with one more promotion spot still to be decided through the play-offs.

But for Tottenham or West Ham, relegation would represent one of the Premier League era’s biggest embarrassments — and a brutal reminder that reputation alone guarantees nothing in England’s top flight.

The 2026 Comrades Marathon has recorded its highest qualification success rate in more than a decade, with organisers confirming that 21 633 runners have officially qualified for next month’s race as the event prepares to introduce a major new three-group start system.

The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) announced this week that 95.37% of entrants successfully completed the qualification process for the 99th edition of the race on June 14 – an increase from last year’s 93.96%.

This year’s race, which marks the 50th Up-Run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, sold out its 22 000-entry quota in less than 10 hours when general entries opened in November last year, underlining the growing demand for the iconic ultra-marathon.

Following the substitution process and final qualification deadline on May 4, the CMA confirmed that 21 633 runners met all entry requirements, including qualifying times, medical questionnaires and transport information.

🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️ Comrades Marathon 2026 SEEDINGS ARE NOW AVAILABLE!

With just over four weeks to go until the 99th running of the iconic Comrades Marathon on Sunday, 14 June 2026, runners can now check their official Start Group and Seeding Batch allocations on the 2026 Entry List.… pic.twitter.com/cLo2QjVdE6

— ComradesRace (@ComradesRace) May 14, 2026

CMA race director Sue Forge praised runners and organisers for achieving one of the highest qualification percentages in recent race history.

“We are thrilled by the exceptionally high percentage of successfully qualified runners for this year’s event,” Forge said. “Our Entries Office team worked tirelessly leading up to the deadline, providing ongoing communication and support to help runners complete all the necessary requirements.”

Forge said organisers were particularly encouraged by runners embracing the event’s expanded medical and transport information requirements, which were introduced to strengthen race-day safety and operational planning.

The CMA also confirmed sweeping operational changes for this year’s race, including an earlier start time and a new three-group start format aimed at improving congestion, safety and runner flow.

🏃‍♂️ START TIMES, START GROUPS & CUT-OFFS ANNOUNCED FOR THE 99TH COMRADES MARATHON

The Comrades Marathon Association is introducing exciting operational enhancements for the 2026 Up Run to make your journey from Durban to Pietermaritzburg safer, smoother and an even better runner… pic.twitter.com/3PMuFR83X8

— ComradesRace (@ComradesRace) May 12, 2026

Group 1 runners will start at 5am, followed by Group 2 at 5.15am and Group 3 at 5.30am. The field will be divided into seeded batches according to qualifying times, with faster qualifiers placed in earlier groups. Approximately 9 952 runners will start in Group 1, 6 704 in Group 2 and 4 972 in Group 3.

Forge said the staggered starts build on the success of last year’s two-group system, which significantly reduced congestion at the start.

“Our principal focus is reducing congestion on the road, improving access to emergency and medical support and creating safer and more comfortable running conditions from the start of the race,” she said.

The CMA stressed that all runners will still receive the full 12 hours to complete the 85.777km race, regardless of their allocated start group. Organisers have also introduced an enhanced “traffic-light” cut-off system along the route to provide runners with clearer pacing guidance and improve operational management during the race.

Runners can now check their official seeding batches and start groups on the Comrades Marathon website.

Video evidence is central to the trial of Leano Vergotine, currently underway in the Western Cape High Court at the Wynberg Regional Court, where defence attorney Nawaal Abduragmaan faces significant challenges in countering the State's case in the child rape and child pornography proceedings.

During closing arguments, Abduragmaan focused on disputing technical aspects of the charges while acknowledging the compelling video evidence presented against her client.

Addressing count one, Abduragmaan rejected witness allegations that Vergotine kicked and stepped on the complainant.

Instead, she argued that her client only smacked the complainant and requested that the court consider convicting him on common assault rather than assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm.

The defence also disputed allegations that Vergotine anally penetrated child complainant one, arguing instead that the penetration was vaginal.

However, Abduragmaan acknowledged that medical evidence presented before court confirmed injuries to the child’s anus.

On count 12, relating to child complainant two, Abduragmaan argued that there was no medical evidence directly linking the allegations to anal penetration.

Despite this, she conceded that video evidence linked to the charge existed before court.

The court also heard submissions regarding count 13 involving allegations of sexual grooming.

Abduragmaan asked the court to provide interpretation and clarity on the legal meaning of the word “grooming”.

Regarding counts 16 and 17, Abduragmaan informed the court that Vergotine had refused to testify in relation to the allegations.

However, she again noted that video evidence formed part of the State’s case on those counts.

Another issue argued during proceedings related to the alleged duplication of charges involving child complainant two.

Abduragmaan submitted that some of the charges appeared repetitive or the same.

However, State Prosecutor Renee Uys explained that the charges stemmed from multiple videos allegedly involving child complainant two, all recorded on the same day using one device.

The 41-year-old Vergotine from Ceres is facing 18 charges, including rape, kidnapping, assault, and several child pornography-related offences.

The State alleges that Vergotine targeted a number of minors in separate incidents.

Prosecutors claim he kidnapped and raped a 16-year-old girl in September 2022, raped a 15-year-old boy while allegedly filming the attack, and groomed and raped a nine-year-old child on multiple occasions.

The trial continues on May 28.

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Award-winning Cape Town content creator and actor Sohail Rowan Booise is taking a step back from social media to focus on his mental health.

The popular TikTok recently opened up to fans about going through a difficult period, saying, “I went through a little bit of a dip.”

Known for his hilarious skits, relatable family content and everyday South African humour, Booise has built a loyal online community through videos that many followers say feel both funny and authentic.

His content regularly trends for its local flavour and light-hearted storytelling, helping him grow a massive audience of more than 400 000 followers on TikTok.

While many fans noticed that he had become quieter online, Booise reassured supporters that he is focusing on himself for now.

“But I have been focusing on myself, going to the gym and looking after myself. I will be back. It might not be soon, or it might be soon, but it was good to be on social media without creating content all the time,” he shared.

Mental health experts and researchers have increasingly highlighted the pressure content creators face from constantly being online, producing content and staying visible on fast-moving platforms like TikTok.

Studies have shown that social media algorithms and the demand for engagement can place emotional strain on creators over time.

By taking time away, Booise is choosing rest, routine and self-care over pressure, something many people online praised him for.

“I will be back to make you guys laugh again, but for now, I would just like to focus on myself,” he added.

The creator also thanked his loyal supporters after many reached out with messages of concern, encouragement and love during his break.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sohail Rowen Booise (@sohailbooise)

A taxi driver and sliding door operator have been fired after they planned a robbery of a customer saying it was their first time committing a crime.

The woman was targeted after she got off at a bus stop in Belhar on Tuesday while the driver was driving the Delft/Epping route.

According to reports as she got out of the taxi the door operator jumped out and snatched her iPhone and fled the scene in a getaway taxi.

The Cape Organisation for Democratic Taxi Association (CODETA) said that after they saw video footage of the incident they were able to track down the driver involved and recover the stolen phone.

They also interrogated the two thieves and they said that they needed to rob someone as they owed the taxi owner R600 which was due on Monday, however they blew the money.

The driver and operator said that they only planned on robbing one person and that it was their first time robbing someone.

They said they planned on selling the phone in Bellville for R1000 and were going to take the remainder for themselves.

CODETA spokesperson Nceba Enge said that the woman chose not to open a case.

Enge said: “CODETA did not open a case, the person who is supposed to open a case was the lady that got robbed and if she did not open a case there is nothing we can do as CODETA.

“We wanted the lady to open a case, but we could not open the case on her behalf as the law does not allow that. All that we could do on our side was to get the phone back and get those guys.”

They added that the skelms have been fired.

They said: “The taxi driver and his accomplice who were seen in the video snatching the iPhone of a woman standing at a bus stop have been fired. Codeta will write a letter with their photos to all taxi unions to ensure they are not rehired.”

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“Your kids will grow up knowing that their mother killed their older brother; it is a stigma forced by you. They are safe now, they are with their father,” said Acting Judge Amanda van Leeve as she sentenced Noxolo Pearl Ngqono to 25 years in prison for the brutal murder of her five-year-old son, Novelo, in the Western Cape High Court.

Van Leeve also declared Ngqono unfit to work with children and unfit to possess a firearm.

The accused stood with her hands in her pockets as sentence was handed down following emotional sentencing proceedings centred on the brutal death of her son, Novelo.

In delivering sentence, Van Leeve pointed to the fact that Ngqono never testified during trial proceedings or fully explained the events leading to the child’s death.

“The court found it interesting that the accused did not testify and take the court into confidence,” Van Leeve said.

“In fact, you said absolutely nothing.”

The judge questioned how a five-year-old child could possibly defend himself against such violence.

“The question is how does a five-year-old defend himself?” she asked.

“A message must be sent out and must be clear that behaviour you displayed will never be tolerated.”

Van Leeve further said society expects the courts to protect vulnerable victims, particularly in violent crimes involving children.

“Society expects and almost demands that courts must protect their interests, especially in violent cases,” she said.

“Murder is an extremely serious offence, the murder of a child at the hands of the mother is outrageous.”

The judge also referred to the State’s closing arguments during sentencing proceedings, where prosecutors argued that Novelo suffered a painful and traumatic death.

Van Leeve said the extensive injuries detailed during the postmortem highlighted the brutality of the assault.

“The State argued that he had his whole life ahead of him and you cut it short,” Van Leeve said.

“It is clear that the manner of his death is horrid.”

She further remarked that throughout the proceedings very few people had spoken directly about the young victim himself.

“No one spoke for Novelo,” she said.

“Only his teachers and his stepfather’s sister spoke about him.”

Van Leeve also referred to emotional testimony by Ngqono’s husband during sentencing proceedings, where he pleaded with the court “not to throw away the keys” despite acknowledging that his wife deserved punishment.

However, the judge pointed out that even during his evidence, little was said about the murdered child himself or the impact his death had on the family.

The court also rejected arguments by the defence that Ngqono’s actions may have been influenced by underlying mental health struggles linked to pregnancy or postpartum conditions.

“There was no evidence before this court to suggest that the accused suffered from a diagnosed mental condition,” Van Leeve said, referring to testimony by the defence social worker who conceded she was not qualified to diagnose psychiatric illnesses.

Van Leeve said the court had carefully weighed Ngqono’s personal circumstances, the seriousness of the offences and the interests of society before arriving at sentence.

“Taking into consideration the personal circumstances, seriousness of the offence and the community, the court sentences the accused on count one to 10 years imprisonment and on count two to 15 years imprisonment.”

“That is 25 years imprisonment which will run concurrently.”

Following sentencing, Ngqono’s defence indicated its intention to appeal both conviction and sentence.

Ngqono was found guilty earlier this year after the court concluded that the State had proved beyond reasonable doubt that she fatally assaulted Novelo with a mop.

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Frustrated Delft residents took to the streets this week to protest against a week-long power outage affecting various parts of the community.

Areas such as Voorbrug, Leiden and Eindhoven have been largely affected by power outages for almost a week.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, the residents of Eindhoven started burning tyres as a cry for help.

Eindhoven resident Charles George said: “The community is facing a humanitarian crisis after a continuous power outage, with no clear restoration date from Eskom.

“The outage coincides with severe cold and wet weather across the Western Cape, which has already forced the provincial government to close schools due to safety concerns. 

“Our community has lived in darkness and cold. Elderly people are at risk, mothers cannot feed their babies, and crime is rising. 

“We are not asking for favours. We are demanding the basic service we pay for.”

Ward 20 councillor Dineo Masiu for Leiden and Voorbrug said that the complaints have been logged to Eskom; however, there has been no progress.

“The power outage is due to cables being stolen, and because of that, the transformer blew. There are residents in Voorbrug and Leiden who have been without power for more than a month. The people are very angry because Eskom is not responding to them, they asked me what must they do, and I told them that I have tried everything.

“I contacted the management of Eskom asking for feedback, and I was told that the managers are on leave and the residents should contact the call centre, which the residents already did and have reference numbers. There are a lot of houses without electricity.”

The PR Councillor (Proportional Representation) of the Democratic Alliance for Ward 106, Sweetness Phelisa Mzolisa, said that the entire ward is struggling to get electricity.

She added: “Only the streetlights are working because that is supplied by the City of Cape Town; however, the houses are without power, which comes from Eskom.

“The issue is we have a lot of illegal connections in Eindhoven. When Eskom’s people are in the area, they move, but then another illegal connection happens.

“The past four days, we have had power outages due to the weather. But because of extortion, they [Eskom] need to be escorted in order to service the areas because they have been robbed.”

Eskom said in a statement: “Eskom recovery teams remain on the ground across the Western Cape, continuing restoration work following the severe storms that have impacted large parts of the province since last week.

“Eskom technicians have been working under extremely difficult and often hazardous conditions, including persistent rainfall, strong winds, flooding, and challenging terrain. 

“Restoration efforts are ongoing. Eskom continues to prioritise repairs based on network dependencies and safety considerations, with all available resources deployed to expedite the restoration process.”

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The devastating storms that recently struck Cape Town exposed more than damaged roads, flooded homes, and blocked drains. They tore away the City’s carefully constructed public image and laid bare a governance failure years in the making, one built on double standards, chronic underinvestment, and the quiet abandonment of Cape Town’s most vulnerable communities.

For years, residents have been told that services are delivered equally across the city. The Mayor has repeatedly assured Cape Town that it is a world-class city where all communities matter equally.

Yet the City’s own 2026/27 Draft Schedule of Service Delivery Standards tells a very different story; the storm has forced that story into the open. The rain is not an act of the Democratic Alliance.

But the flooding, the blocked stormwater systems, the missing manhole covers, the failed cleaning schedules, the neglected Cape Flats infrastructure, and the repeated suffering of residents are a governance failure. Cape Town does not need a special winter campaign to do what residents already pay for every single day. Cleaning, stormwater maintenance, road safety, refuse removal, and drainage capacity are not seasonal luxuries.

They are basic municipal responsibilities, and residents are being forced to pay more for them every year, including through fixed charges the Western Cape High Court has already found unlawful.

The City’s own service delivery schedule confirms what communities have long experienced. Street cleaning in the CBD takes place daily. For the rest of Cape Town, the standard simply states: “Ad hoc service.”

That single phrase tells residents everything they need to know. In the CBD, cleaning is regular, intensive, and boundary-to-boundary. On the Cape Flats, roads are cleaned on an ad hoc basis, sandy road reserves blow debris into stormwater systems, and waste that would never be tolerated in commercial areas builds up unchecked until the first heavy rain turns streets into rivers. The City then blames residents for dumping.

But its own policy fails to guarantee the preventative services that would stop waste from accumulating in the first place. There is no measurable standard for drain cleaning, no routine stormwater maintenance schedule, and no winter preparedness plan for residential communities. These are not optional extras. They are the basics. Informal settlements fare even worse. The schedule mentions only that waste removal bags are provided, with no indication of frequency, response times, or maintenance standards. Illegal dumping clearance is described as dependent on “resource availability,” meaning communities wait indefinitely.

Residents are entitled to ask where their rates and tariffs are actually going. Missing and broken manhole covers compound the danger. Residents place tyres and stones near open manholes to protect their lives and are then blamed when those objects enter the drainage system. The DA cannot allow infrastructure to collapse and then punish residents for trying to protect their families.

The Mayor recently praised Mitchells Plain as an affordable place to live. That same community is now underwater. Major road upgrades mean nothing when the stormwater infrastructure beneath them cannot cope. Development without drainage is not progress. It is a planning failure dressed up with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Residents must hold their councillors accountable for the budgets they vote for. If councillors support budgets that underfund maintenance, ignore stormwater capacity, and prioritise optics over infrastructure, they must answer to the communities who bear the consequences.

The GOOD Party will continue fighting for allocations that reach the people who need them most. A world-class city is not measured by clean tourist corridors. It is measured by whether the underground systems hold when the storm arrives.

* Little is City of Cape Town GOOD Caucus Leader

Rising rent prices in Cape Town’s City Bowl and Atlantic Seaboard are increasing monthly housing costs for residents and placing further pressure on households trying to remain close to employment hubs.

In suburbs such as Sea Point, Green Point, Clifton and Camps Bay, two-bedroom flats are regularly listed above R35 000 a month.

In parts of the CBD, rentals commonly start at around R15 000, with demand remaining strong in well-located areas close to business districts and transport routes.

The City of Cape Town says rental pricing is driven by supply and demand and falls outside municipal intervention.

Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis said the main pressure on the housing market is driven by demand, as people continue to move to Cape Town for work opportunities, without enough new housing supply to match growth.

The mayor has pushed back on how his remarks were reported, saying Cape Town remains a city where many suburbs still offer more affordable accommodation and that debate is often focused too narrowly on high-demand areas such as the City Bowl and Atlantic Seaboard.

He said he was not referring only to those areas, adding that many neighbourhoods across the metro offer “value for money” housing options.

Hill-Lewis said the main pressure on the housing market is driven by demand, as people continue to move to Cape Town for work opportunities, without enough new housing supply to match growth.

He said the City’s focus has been on enabling private development rather than intervening in rental pricing, arguing that regulatory intervention in rents does not work and can worsen shortages.

The City pointed to its infrastructure investment programme, saying it is expanding capacity in water, sewage and transport systems to support new development. It said this includes a R40 billion infrastructure budget over the next three years aimed at enabling more housing supply.

It also said it has released more municipal land for affordable and social housing, with a pipeline of about 12 000 units intended to be located closer to economic hubs across the metro.

Planning reforms have also been introduced to reduce approval times and make it easier for smaller developers to build housing in high-growth areas.

On rental regulation, the City said price controls have failed internationally, arguing that capping rents reduces supply and entrenches inequality by protecting existing tenants rather than expanding access.

Community representatives, however, say rising transport and fuel costs are making relocation further from employment hubs increasingly difficult.

Community representatives say rising transport and fuel costs continue to add to monthly household expenses.

They say relocation away from economic hubs often increases the overall cost of living rather than reducing it.

Michael Jacobs from the Mitchells Plain United Residents Association said residents are being pushed further from job opportunities as affordability tightens.

“Ordinary South Africans already under severe financial strain are forced to seek accommodation elsewhere,” Jacobs said.

Jacobs said the knock-on effect is longer travel times and higher transport costs, particularly as fuel prices continue to rise.

He said many working households are now spending a larger share of their income on transport than on housing in some cases, as commuting distances increase.

On the Atlantic Seaboard, Chris Willemse of the Clifton, Camps Bay and Bantry Bay Residents Association (CBCRA) said short-term rentals continue to reduce the stock of long-term housing, pushing up prices in already constrained suburbs.

“Short-term rentals are driving up property prices and rendering fewer properties available for local residents,” he said.

Housing advocacy group Ndifuna Ukwazi said the gap between incomes and rental prices is locking most residents out of well-located areas close to the CBD.

It said about 76% of Cape Town households earn below R22 000 a month, while CBD rentals commonly start from around R15 000, placing inner-city housing out of reach for most residents.

The organisation said this reflects a structural shortage of affordable housing in well-located parts of the city and has renewed calls for the City to release more public land for housing development and implement an inclusionary housing policy requiring affordable units in new developments.

Stop CoCT said municipal charges are also contributing to rental pressure, with landlords passing them on to tenants.

“The City of Cape Town itself has been contributing to this with its myriad of fixed charges which is directly passed on to tenants by landlords,” said Sandra Dickson.

The City maintains that housing affordability is best addressed through increasing supply rather than regulating prices.

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On Thursday, President Cyril Ramaphosa said the decision to deploy the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to assist police operations was justified, with early positive results emerging.

Responding to oral questions in the National Assembly, Ramaphosa said the deployment of soldiers in the Western Cape, the Eastern Cape, North West, Gauteng and the Free State has yielded significant progress in stabilising priority hotspots and also disrupting crime.

“It is a bit too early to draw definitive conclusions regarding the impact and also giving the actual numbers. However, indications suggest that a reduction in selected crime categories within the operational areas has taken place,” he said.

Ramaphosa was responding to DA chief whip George Michalakis, who asked whether the roll-out of Operation Prosper had succeeded in meeting its objectives.

During his State of the Nation Address two months ago, the President announced the deployment of the SANDF to deal with gang violence and illegal mining. 

He told the MPs that more than 1,000 arrests have been effected with 550 in the Western Cape and 238 in the Eastern Cape.

“There has been a strong focus on dismantling drug networks and illegal mining syndicates, alongside arrests that are linked to serious violent crimes.

“Now operational intensity has been sustained in all this through the execution of over 38,000 coordinated actions, including roadblocks and targeted tracing operations resulting in the seizure of 18 firearms, 792 rounds of ammunition and 186 explosives.”

Ramaphosa also said while there is tangible progress towards reclaiming territory and stabilising communities, there was a need for a government-wide and society-wide effort to prevent crime and address its social and economic causes.

However, Michalakis, who referred to some statistics, said the situation has actually gotten worse since the deployment of the soldiers on the Cape Flats while the cost of the Operation Prosper was R823 million.

“Can you look the mothers who lost children killed on the Cape Flats, Westbury and other places since the start of Operation Prosper, in the eye and say to them that it is working?” asked Michalakis in a follow up.

Ramaphosa said in response that he would be able to look to those mothers and offer his condolences and sympathies, and also inform them that the government is doing much more to bring down the levels of gang violence.

“Of course, we can politicise this matter as much as we like. The fact of the matter is that when lives are lost, we should all be saying we want the police and the SANDF to succeed.

“That is why I say it is a government-wide and community-wide effort that will bring down the levels of this criminality. We are scaling up our intelligence services.”

Ramaphosa stated that the deployed soldiers and the police were employees, working way beyond their normal work hours and who have to be accommodated away from their families and have to be transported.

Michalakis asked if fixing the police by devolving policing function to provinces and local governments was the solution, Ramaphosa said police were constitutionally empowered to fight crime.

He charged that it was a false notion to think that the police in particular areas do not have the power.

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Lebone Seema has been one of the cornerstones behind Orlando Pirates’ title charge, with his contributions including helping goalkeeper Sipho Chaine etch his name into the history books this season.

Pirates need only one win from their last two Betway Premiership matches against Durban City at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday (3pm kick-off) and Orbit College FC at Mbombela Stadium on May 23 to win the title and end a 14-year drought.

The fuel behind Pirates’ strong campaign has been a balance between a lethal attack and a solid defence. They have scored 56 goals – a club best – and conceded only 12 goals in 28 matches.

𝐍𝐄𝐗𝐓_𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇

🆚 @DurbanCity_FC
🗓 16 May 2026
⏰ 15:00
🎟 SOLD-OUT
🏟 Orlando Amstel Arena
📺 @SuperSportTV | @Official_SABC1

⚫⚪🔴⭐#OrlandoPirates#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/XB6GeJdVZr

— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) May 14, 2026

While Chaine has deservedly received plaudits for his impressive form in goal, which has seen him keep 19 clean sheets – a PSL-era record so far – his defence has also been crucial to that setup.

Seema has been a notable contributor. The former TS Galaxy defender has fitted seamlessly into Pirates’ backline, forming a strong partnership with Mbekezeli Mbokazi in the first half of the season and Nkosinathi Sibisi in the second half. He has made 26 league appearances and scored two goals.

Whether his performances will catch the attention of Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, especially with Siyabonga Ngezana still working his way back to full fitness after an injury sustained after Afcon, remains to be seen.

Former Bafana defender and Pirates legend Siyabonga Sangweni has advised the 23-year-old not to lose confidence if he misses out on the World Cup squad, but to continue working hard, including helping Pirates win the league and Chaine add more clean sheets.

“Not that I am discouraging the boy, but he must wait for his opportunity,” Sangweni exclusively told Independent Media. “He must just continue working hard.

“If the coach doesn’t call him now, it means he hasn’t caught his attention yet. But we are seeing his hard work from the sidelines. He’s coming along well because he’s been the rock behind our solid defence.”

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams believes it would have suited his side better to host the second leg of the CAF Champions League final in Pretoria rather than play it away in Rabat.

Sundowns will welcome AS FAR to Loftus Versfeld in the first leg on Sunday (4pm kick-off). With the away-goal rule still applicable in the competition, keeping a clean sheet at home could prove crucial for the Brazilians.

Sundowns have struggled defensively in recent matches, with goalkeeper Ronwen Williams conceding seven goals in the last two games, including the 3-2 defeat against TS Galaxy in the Betway Premiership that all but handed the title advantage to Orlando Pirates.

The return leg of the final is scheduled for May 24 in Rabat, meaning Sundowns will be eager to travel with at least a narrow advantage and, ideally, a clean sheet from the first encounter.

The Brazilians endured heartbreak in last season’s final after drawing 1-1 at home against Pyramids FC in the first leg before losing 2-1 away in Cairo, going down 3-2 on aggregate.

“Personally, I don’t think it’s ideal,” Adams said about playing the second leg away from home. “I wanted us to lift the trophy here. Last season we went away and lost, and that was very disappointing.”

Sundowns last lifted the continental crown 10 years ago when they beat Zamalek SC 3-0 at home before losing 1-0 in Cairo, still securing a 3-1 aggregate victory.

Despite that success, Adams admitted he would have preferred the decisive leg to be played in South Africa.

“I think in 2026 the second leg was also away. So, three times South African teams have had to play the second leg away from home,” Adams said. “But there’s nothing we can do about it.”

Sundowns have played the second leg away in their last three CAF finals because of the draw conducted earlier in the knockout stages, meaning the scheduling was beyond the organisers’ control.

As such, the Brazilians simply need to replicate the class of the 2016 side – build a convincing advantage in the first leg on Sunday and finish the job in Rabat.

The Sharks are determined to give departing Springbok captain Siya Kolisi and several other outgoing players a fitting send-off when they close out their United Rugby Championship campaign against Zebre Parma at Kings Park on Saturday (1.45pm kick-off).

While the match carries little significance in the standings, it has become an emotional occasion for the Durban franchise, with Kolisi among a group of players set to make their final appearances in Sharks colours.

Coach JP Pietersen confirmed the union had already begun saying their farewells at the team’s recent awards evening, but said a special tribute was planned after Saturday’s clash.

Kolisi’s departure for the Stormers marks the end of a short but influential stint back in Durban after returning to the Sharks from France in 2023. Although injuries limited his game-time this season, Pietersen said the Bok skipper’s influence stretched far beyond matchday performances.

“He’s been phenomenal for us the whole year,” Pietersen said. “Even when he’s been injured or not playing, he’s still contributing to the team."

Pietersen spoke glowingly about the impact Kolisi has had within the squad environment, particularly among younger players coming through the system. “He’s been so helpful with Nick Hatton and Matt Ramao in the loose-forward combination.

With his knowledge and experience, there’s so much you can take from him as a group and as a coach,” Pietersen said. "He’s been through difficult situations himself in rugby where he had to leave teams, so he’s got a heap of experience, and it’s sad we’re losing him."

Farewell and thank you for every carry, tackle, try and memory in black and white 🦈🖤 pic.twitter.com/qO4AlOgfiC

— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) May 14, 2026

The Sharks coach also highlighted Kolisi’s connection with the wider union and local rugby community. “And even off the field, if the women’s team or junior teams are playing, he’s there supporting them. He’s been phenomenal for KwaZulu-Natal rugby and for the Sharks.”

Saturday’s fixture will also be the final home outing for a number of other senior players — including Bok scrum-half Grant Williams and lock Marvin Orrie — as the Sharks prepare for another squad overhaul following a frustrating, injury-hit campaign.

“It’s important for us to send the guys off properly,” Pietersen said. “We want to put in a good performance for them and give the fans something to remember from our last game.”

But beyond the result, much of Saturday’s focus at Kings Park will fall on saying goodbye — particularly to Kolisi, whose presence and leadership left a lasting mark during his second spell in Durban.

Jaedon Naidu, the top graduate from the University of KwaZulu-Natal for 2025, will head to the prestigious University of Oxford after graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science Honours degree in Statistics.

Naidu completed triple majors in Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science and will pursue a master’s degree in Statistical Science at Oxford later this year.

“I am incredibly grateful and excited for the experiences that lie ahead,” he said.

According to UKZN, Naidu’s academic journey into data science began during his school years after he was approached by then Dean and Head of the School of Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science, Professor Delia North, who encouraged him to pursue the field.

Although he had initially accepted an offer to study Medicine at UKZN, Naidu said he later switched to data science after realising it aligned more closely with his interests.

“Mathematics was always my best subject at school,” he said. “I quickly realised it was exactly what I had been looking for.”

He eventually chose to specialise in Statistics because of its use of advanced mathematical techniques in modern data science applications.

Naidu said he particularly enjoyed academically rigorous modules that focused on analytical thinking and problem-solving rather than memorisation.

Among his favourite honours modules was Time Series Analysis, which examines how quantities evolve over time.

For his honours research project, Naidu analysed data from a major South African debt collection agency to investigate the causes of low debt collection rates.

The project, titled Diagnosing Low Debt Collection Using Generalised Additive Models and Heckman Selection, proposed a two-fold solution aimed at both debt collectors and debtors. According to UKZN, some academics regarded the research as being of master’s degree level, with the potential for doctoral-level development.

Naidu said his interest in statistics was shaped by years of competing in national and international mathematics, computer programming and physics Olympiads during his childhood.

“A field like statistics, which integrates these disciplines with real-world data, felt like a natural bridge between theoretical learning and practical application,” he said.

He also highlighted the growing importance of statistics and mathematics in the rapidly evolving field of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Naidu credited his achievements to first and foremost “to God, for the combination of my abilities and the environment in which to develop them”, his support system, thanking his family, educators and mentors, as well as his grandmother, whom he described as “my first teacher”.

However, Naidu doesn't just bury his head in books (or calculators) 24/7. He enjoys weighted calisthenics, playing the piano and running a YouTube channel focused on study skills and productivity.

Offering advice to fellow students, Naidu stressed the importance of perseverance and discipline.

“To anyone about to begin their degree, or currently pursuing one, remember that hard work and consistency will take you further than natural talent alone ever could,” he said.

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Members of the Progressive Alliance, including the MK Party and EFF, staged a walkout in the National Assembly on Thursday after Speaker Thoko Didiza denied their request to debate a motion of no confidence against President Cyril Ramaphosa.

MK Party chief whip Mmabatho Nthabiseng Mokoena-Zondi raised a point of order shortly after Didiza announced the session would focus on scheduled oral questions for the president.

Mokoena-Zondi made the request on behalf of the Progressive Alliance-aligned parties after she wrote a letter to Didiza earlier in the day.

She said it could not be business as usual when Ramaphosa continued to live under a shadow and faced the impeachment process.

“We can't continue to legitimise his presidency.”

In response, Didiza said she had received the letter.

“I don't think it is for this House,” she said.

“You know that can't happen today. I have not responded to the letter because I am applying my mind on it. Today, we have questions for the president," said Didiza.

EFF chief whip Nontando Noluntshungu sought to invoke the emotions of people who had sacrificed for the liberation of the country.

“We request in this House. We can't sit here and listen to someone who does not respect the Constitution,” Nolutshungu said.

As more points of orders were made, Didiza said it was up to her to preside over the sitting.

“The notices and orders of day are discussed and agreed in the Programme Committee and the Chief Whips Forum. The issue of the motion written to me has to be considered and I will respond to it accordingly, but you can't insist, as we sit here, that we suspend the orders and discuss the motion,” she added.

ATM MP Vuyo Zungula asked Didiza to take the country into her confidence on the Constitutional Court judgment, which set aside the vote of the National Assembly, taken in December 2022, when it declined to refer the report of the Independent Panel to an Impeachment Committee.

The apex court declared two weeks ago that the 129I parliamentary rule, which deals with the removal of the president, was inconsistent with the Constitution and provided a read-in provision pending an amendment.

It also ordered that the Independent Panel report be referred to the Impeachment Committee established in terms of the National Assembly Rules.

The Independent Panel, chaired by retired Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo, found there was prima facie evidence that President Cyril Ramaphosa violated the Constitution and other laws in the Phala Phala matter.

Responding to Zungula, Didiza said the judgment was about Parliament and its processes.

She also referred the invalidated parliamentary rule on the removal of the President to the Subcommittee on the rules for processing and subsequent consideration by the Rules Committee before it is ratified by the National Assembly. 

“That matter does not arise now,” Didiza said in her ruling.

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has indicated that more ministers and senior officials, including suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, could be dismissed following the conclusion of the Madlanga Commission's investigation.

Ramaphosa was responding to questions from MPs in Parliament on Thursday.

Democratic Alliance (DA) MP Nazley Sharif praised the president for removing Sisi Tolashe but warned that his credibility now depends on whether he takes action against ministers accused of more serious misconduct.

“Will the president keep the momentum going?” Sharif demanded during a tense parliamentary session.

Tolashe was removed from the Cabinet on Thursday following a cloud of controversy that had engulfed her department and office for months.

She faced a parliamentary ethics investigation over allegations that two luxury SUVs, reportedly donated by Chinese vehicle manufacturers to the ANC Women’s League, were registered under her children’s names.

Her office was also rocked by damning findings from the Public Service Commission, which revealed that her special adviser allegedly manipulated a relative’s CV to secure a private secretary position.

In a separate scandal, another official was controversially elevated to acting Chief of Staff despite lacking the required qualifications — a move tied to a multi-million-rand salary package.

But Sharif made it clear that Tolashe’s dismissal should not be the end of the purge.

She directly challenged Ramaphosa on whether ministers would be banned from accepting luxury gifts, particularly from foreign governments and business interests.

Ramaphosa defended the current system, insisting members of the executive were required to declare gifts above a certain value.

“Upon receipt of that declaration, we can say yes, you may accept, or no, you may not accept,” Ramaphosa said.

“You can rest assured that we do have a credible process in government through which the executive can deal with these sorts of matters.”

The president, however, stopped short of committing to immediate action against Mchunu, who has remained on special paid leave since July 2025 after allegations linked him to corruption and collusion with criminal syndicates.

Mchunu was accused of interfering in police investigations to protect criminals and attempting to dismantle the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).

The DA later laid criminal charges against him for allegedly misleading Parliament about his ties to certain individuals.

Mchunu has denied wrongdoing and cooperated with investigators by handing over his electronic devices.

Still, Ramaphosa said that Mchunu’s fate rested with the Madlanga Commission.

“As regards the minister that has been suspended, I have said publicly that I am waiting for the outcome of the Madlanga Commission,” he said.

“It is upon receipt of such that a determination will be made.”

A significant financial gap has emerged within thousands of municipal accounts across the City of Cape Town, raising concerns for property owners.

According to Steer & Co, a leading property management and brokerage firm, the classification of properties—ranging from residential to industrial and commercial—directly impacts how the City levies rates.

With 18 distinct categories, each carrying its own rate, many property owners may be unaware of their potential overpayments due to misclassification.

“For 2026/27, the residential rate is proposed at 0.006428 cents in the rand. The business and commercial rate is 0.015106. More than double.

“On a property valued at R3 million, that gap is roughly R25 434 a year. That is not a rounding error.” 

For straightforward residential properties, categorisation is usually clear, says Steer & Co.

However, it says there are situations where the lines blur, and owners can sit in the wrong category for years without realising it.

Short-term letting is the most common example right now, it adds. 

According to this company, the City of Cape Town's draft rates policy for 2026/27 includes a specific threshold.

It says that if a property's short-term letting availability exceeds 50% of total annual room nights, the Municipal Valuer may classify it as business and commercial rather than residential.

“So if you are listing a property on a short-term platform for more than half the year, you may no longer be paying residential rates. You may be paying commercial rates. And the difference, as the numbers above show, is significant.”

The brokerage says every year when the City publishes its budget and rates policy, there is an opportunity to look at one's property with fresh eyes:

• Is it classified correctly?
• Has anything changed about how it is used?
• Are there relief provisions that apply but have not been applied for?

These are not complicated questions, it adds.

“But they are the ones that tend not to get asked until something goes wrong.” 

In April, the Western Cape High Court ruled against the City of Cape Town’s fixed tariff structure. It declared fixed charges linked to property values, such as cleaning, water and sanitation, unlawful, declaring these must be removed by June 30.

“If upheld, this should bring some measure of relief to property owners, particularly as Cape Town is home to some of the continent’s most expensive property,” said Justin Thom, director at Galetti Corporate Real Estate.

In July last year, and after adoption by the City of Cape Town of the 2025/26 budget, the South African Property Owners’ Association (SAPOA) instituted legal action against the City of Cape Town to challenge the city-wide cleaning tariff, the basic water tariff, and the basic sewerage tariff, all three of which are calculated according to property value bands.

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Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie and Deputy Minister of Social Development Ganief Hendricks have been exonerated by Parliament’s Ethics Committee after facing separate allegations of misconduct. 

The complaints against McKenzie, filed by Athol Trollip of ActionSA in November 2025, centred on accusations that he provided contradictory statements regarding the controversial “Mokoena-gate” saga, a situation that almost jeopardised Bafana Bafana’s qualification campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The controversy centred on midfielder Teboho Mokoena’s eligibility during a key World Cup qualifier after an administrative blunder by team manager Vincent Tseka.

Trollip argued that McKenzie initially claimed he had called for an investigation into the matter, but later revealed in a parliamentary response that no formal investigation had been launched by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.

He further alleged that McKenzie misled Parliament and the public by later stating in media interviews that an investigation had taken place and that “the matter is now closed”.

Trollip also alleged that McKenzie’s contradictory statements undermine the integrity and accountability of Parliament, as “it undermines public confidence in the executive’s commitment to transparency and the principle of ministerial responsibility”.

In a response to the committee, McKenzie denied misleading anyone, saying the South African Football Association (SAFA) had conducted its own investigation and submitted a report to him.

According to the committee report, McKenzie said it would have been inappropriate for his department to conduct its own probe because SAFA falls under FIFA structures. After reviewing SAFA’s findings, McKenzie considered the matter resolved.

The committee accepted McKenzie’s explanation, finding that his parliamentary response was truthful and that he had merely referred to SAFA’s investigation when speaking publicly. The committee said that in light of what McKenzie had explained, it found that his response was truthful.

Meanwhile, Hendricks was cleared over comments he made in Parliament in July 2025 regarding hunger and social grants in South Africa.

Fellow MP Alexandra Abrahams lodged a complaint after Hendricks suggested that South Africa would have “zero hunger” if social grants were used to buy food, arguing that his remarks downplayed the country’s food insecurity crisis.

During a later committee meeting, Hendricks defended his comments and maintained that South Africa’s grant system was designed to prevent starvation.

In his submission to the Ethics Committee, Hendricks said his remarks had been misunderstood and that the use of the word “if” in his statement was important context.

He said he intended to highlight that some vulnerable people do not apply for available grants.

The committee found that Hendricks had taken steps to clarify his comments and concluded there was no intention to mislead Parliament.

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Taxi commuters will be expected to pay between R2 and R3, and more, from Monday. 

This comes as the SA National Taxi Council (SANTACO) in the Western Cape said rising fuel prices and mounting operational costs are being faced by operators.

According to the taxi council, fare increases will vary by route and distance, with some commuters expected to pay between R2 and R3, and more.

Speaking at a media briefing on Thursday, Nceba Enge, chairperson of the Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (CODETA), said operators were left with little choice but to increase fares.

"We want to apologise to the commuters for maybe not giving them enough notice. But prior to this increase, we issued a statement where we notified our commuters that prices will increase because operators cannot pay for their vehicles."

Enge said CODETA and the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) had previously met in Nyanga to discuss concerns around rising fuel costs and fare hikes before consulting regions across the Western Cape.

He added that long-distance taxi fares would also increase from next week.

The single trip to the Eastern Cape will increase from R1 000 to R1 150.

The special Thursday trip will increase from R1 250 to R1 400, while the special Wednesday trip will rise from R1 200 to R1 350.

The Saldanha single trip fare will increase from R1 000 to R1 200, while the special trip fare will increase from R1 300 to R1 450.

These fare increases will take effect from Thursday, May 21.

The joint regional statement was delivered by Nelson Mayezana, who said SANTACO represents eight regions in the province, including Boland, CATA, CODETA, Eden, Greater Cape Town, Mitchells Plain, Northern, and Two Oceans.

Mayezana said the taxi industry continued to face significant financial pressure beyond fuel costs alone.

“A taxi operator must carry the cost of vehicle finance payments, insurance, vehicle registration, licensing fees, services and repairs, fuel driver costs, relief driver costs, rank marshals, payments to sliding door operators or conductors, association fees, and operational expenses,” he said.

Nazeem Abdurahman, the second deputy chairperson of SANTACO in the province, said the industry had attempted to shield commuters from frequent fare increases despite continuous fuel hikes.

He said SANTACO Western Cape had approached the government to request financial relief or subsidies for the minibus taxi industry.

“We have written to our national Minister of Transport to look into this, so that at least we can subsidize in this crisis period to the minibus taxi industry, because we don't enjoy the subsidy that other modes of transport enjoy.

“We are losing drivers almost every day because they can't make those targets,” he said.

Meanwhile, SANTACO Western Cape chairperson, Besuthu Ndungane, said discussions were ongoing with the Western Cape Government regarding possible relief measures for the industry.

He added that SANTACO was optimistic about engagements with both provincial and national transport authorities regarding future support measures for the taxi sector.

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Cape Town City are on the brink of qualifying for the Motsepe Foundation Championship promotion play-offs, which is why they cannot afford to drop points when they visit Leicesterford City at Dobsonville Stadium on Saturday afternoon (3pm kick-off) in their final league match of the season.

City were relegated from the PSL top flight, the Betway Premiership, via the play-offs last season. That demotion left Stellenbosch FC as the Western Cape’s only representative in the top division.

Considering the club’s growth over the years – including winning the MTN8 and Telkom Knockout, now known as the Carling Knockout, while also challenging near the top of the standings in previous campaigns – their relegation represented a significant setback for football in the province.

However, chairman John Comitis accepted the club’s fate and immediately began rebuilding. City retained experienced players and added quality reinforcements such as Keagan Dolly and Dzenan Zajmovic, while continuing to invest in emerging talents like Emile Witbooi.

That blend of youth and experience has worked well for the Citizens, who now stand on the verge of securing a place in the play-off round-robin tournament set to run from May 26 to June 13.

City’s strong run of form in recent weeks has also coincided with the influence of coach Jan Vreman, who has successfully combined local talent with experienced overseas-born players such as former TS Galaxy striker Zajmovic.

The play-offs, however, will not be straightforward. Alongside City, the other team that finishes in the top-three in the MFC, besides champions Kruger United,  and the side that ends 15th in the top-flight will all compete for a place in the Premiership next season.

Even so, City are expected to carry an advantage because of their previous play-off experience, despite ultimately suffering relegation last season. Players such as Jaedin Rhodes, Witbooi and Lorenzo Gordinho are expected to draw on that experience when it matters most.

Still, City cannot rely on experience alone. They will need a strong mentality and maximum effort from start to finish.

Milford could also secure a place in the play-offs if they beat Hungry Lions, although that task will not be easy. Hungry Lions are also chasing a late push for the play-offs and are level on points with third-placed City, trailing only on goal difference.

Milford, though, have gained valuable confidence this season following their impressive run to the Nedbank Cup semi-finals, which included giant-killing victories such as their win over Sekhukhune United before eventually losing to TS Galaxy.

Coach Dr Xanti Pupuma would likely admit that his side initially suffered a dip in form after their memorable cup run. However, recent performances suggest they have regained momentum at the right time, which is why they are now on the verge of finishing in the top three.

A top-three finish for both Milford and City behind champions Kruger United would represent a major achievement for both clubs after the challenges they have faced this season.

But first, they still need to get the job done on the pitch by beating Hungry Lions and Leicesterford respectively.

Jayden Adams, who proclaimed "I am a grootman now" after debuting a bald head  – chiskop – this season, has lived up to that claim by showing significant maturity in his game and becoming a key figure for Mamelodi Sundowns in the second half of the season.

His contribution was vital in helping Sundowns reach the CAF Champions League final for the second time in a row and the third time in 10 years. They are set to face AS FAR over two legs, with the first leg scheduled for Sunday afternoon (4pm) at Loftus Versfeld.

Orlando Pirates are poised to win the Betway Premiership title as they need just one win from two games after Sundowns lost 3-2 to TS Galaxy in their domestic season finale on Tuesday night, but Adams is still satisfied with his improved form.

After a disappointing first half of the season, which fueled rumors of him potentially leaving the club for more playing time to secure a spot in Bafana Bafana's Fifa World Cup final squad, Adams reflected on his turnaround.

“I think I firstly had to focus on myself,” Adams said. “I didn’t play much last year. So, I went home, reflected, and trained alone. I came back, and I was hoping for my chance. I got my chance and I grabbed it with both hands.”

Adams will go into the final against AS FAR slightly refreshed but lacking match fitness, as he missed Sundowns' 3-2 loss to TS Galaxy in their domestic season final due to a red card in the previous game against Kaizer Chiefs. He expressed concern that this may disrupt his momentum.

“I won’t say that it’s a good time. I was out for two games. The form dropped,” Adams admitted. “But hopefully, if I am in the team I will do my best.”

Vila and Teko reflect on the lessons from our #BetwayPrem season and how the team has stayed united through every challenge. Masandawana, our first #TotalEnergiesCAFCL final leg is at home, and Bafana Ba Style need your voices, your energy, and your belief. Let’s rise together… pic.twitter.com/lsrzQ0Kzy4

— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) May 13, 2026

Adams' discipline has been an issue this season, having been sent off twice, including in another league match against Lamontville Golden Arrows, a fact that is troubling him ahead of the two-legged final against the Moroccans.

“That plays a lot in my mind,” Adams conceded. “You must be careful. You don’t want to put your team in a situation that they don’t want to be in. I just need to put that behind me, and I will be fine.”

Winning the Champions League is paramount for Sundowns, who have dominated locally with eight consecutive titles but have endured a 10-year continental title drought. 

Coach Miguel Cardoso is eager for a triumph in the competition after reaching and losing the last two finals with Esperance and Sundowns to Al Ahly and Pyramids, respectively.

With Sundowns all but set to end the domestic campaign without silverware, salvaging the season with a continental title is crucial, which would also boost the morale of Bafana Bafana’s bound World Cup players.

“The Betway Premiership is done for us. We are solely focused on the Champions League. After that, we can focus on the World Cup if I am selected,” Adams added.

Winning the Champions League would mark the perfect end to the season for Adams and further justify why he has been a true grootman for his team during the second half of the campaign.

With a youthful backline set to feature in the Sharks’ United Rugby Championship finale against Zebre Parma, coach JP Pietersen says the side’s senior players will carry extra responsibility to provide structure and composure at Kings Park on Saturday (1.45pm kick-off).

The Durban outfit close out their season with several inexperienced backs in the mix, including  Zekhethelo Siyaya, Jaco Williams, Bradley Davids and Lethelihle “Lilli” Bester, while Junior Springbok star Vusi Moyo is set to make his Sharks URC debut at flyhalf.

“I’m looking forward to seeing what he brings for us at No 10 because we haven’t seen him play there at senior level yet,” Pietersen told a media conference on Thursday.

“And then obviously with the back three all under 23 years old, it’ll be exciting to see how they operate together in the backfield.”

Siyaya shifted from flyhalf to fullback after making his first start at No 10 against Benetton last weekend as the Sharks continued to juggle a backline ravaged by injuries, with wings Edwill van der Merwe and Makazole Mapimpi and Edwill van der Merwe the latest casualties. 

Get to know our latest debutant, Vusi Moyo 🦈

Be there on Saturday to watch him in action against Zebre. pic.twitter.com/3snfVN5yKv

— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) May 14, 2026

Pietersen admitted the constant reshuffling had hurt attacking cohesion.

“In rugby you need cohesion, and with cohesion you need player availability,” he said.

“If you look at our season, I think the most continuity we had was maybe two or three games together as a group of 23 players. There have always been changes because of injuries, and that affects your attack.”

“You can only build cohesion when combinations play together regularly. If Jordan Hendrikse isn’t available, there will always be talk around flyhalf because last year he was our frontline 10 and we reached the semi-finals.”

Still, Pietersen believes the injury crisis has created opportunities for younger players to prove themselves.

“Hopefully Vusi can put his hand up for us on Saturday,” he said.

While the selection points towards the Sharks’ future, Pietersen stressed the importance of experienced figures such as captain Andre Esterhuizen in guiding the younger backs through the pressure moments.

“With youth you get excitement and energy, but there will also be errors. That’s normal because that’s how players learn and gain experience,” he said.

“The beautiful thing is we’ve got Andre in the middle of them. He helps balance things out with his communication and organisation.”

Pietersen also backed Moyo’s temperament despite his age.

“Vusi is young, but he’s a very mature player. He understands the game and knows how to dictate tempo.”

The coach added that the responsibility would not rest solely on the backs, with the experienced forward pack needing to lay the platform.

“The forwards must give us go-forward and set-piece dominance. That’s the only way the backs earn the right to go wide.”

Pietersen was also full of praise for centre Jurenzo Julius after his hat-trick and Player-of-the-Match display against Benetton.

Your Hollywoodbets Sharks Team to take on Zebre 🦓

Let's make it a memorable final outing at the tank this season 🦈 pic.twitter.com/7Xe6egkgHo

— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) May 14, 2026

“Jurenzo has had a lot of setbacks with injuries this season, but wow, he was outstanding last week on the ball, both on defence and attack, and with his work rate off the ball. Probably one of his best performances this season," he said.

"And Andre complements him really well with communication and organisation around him. Hopefully, he can go on and maybe score four tries this weekend."

Despite the encouraging win over Benetton, Pietersen said consistency remained the Sharks’ biggest challenge.

“The question for us is always: can we back it up? We haven’t been consistent enough this season.”

Zebre, meanwhile, would present another stern examination.

“They’re dangerous in transition and can punish mistakes. We can’t take them lightly at all,” Pietersen warned.

The Dotsure SWD Eagles are working to restore pride in Southern Cape rugby as a new-look squad, experienced coaching staff and growing community support continue to reshape the future of the team.

Based in George and playing home matches at Outeniqua Park, the Dotsure SWD Eagles rugby team represents the Southern Cape region in South African domestic rugby competitions. The team draws support from communities across the Garden Route and surrounding areas.

Backed by dotsure.co.za, the Eagles have embraced a fresh direction under the leadership of former Springbok-winning coach Heyneke Meyer and his coaching staff.

Rugby Players Focused on Community Pride

A recurring theme among the squad is the responsibility they feel towards the communities they represent.

Loose forward Jaco Bezuidenhout said the opportunity to play for the Dotsure SWD Eagles is about inspiring young people to chase their goals regardless of their circumstances. Fullback Kyle Cyster described the team as “something bigger than myself”, while winger Nico Leonard called playing for the Eagles a “full circle moment” after growing up watching matches at Outeniqua Park as a child.

The squad’s connection to supporters has become a major source of motivation this season.

Lock and flanker Ewan Coetzee thanked fans for making players feel at home in George, while scrumhalf Xavier Swartbooi said the continued backing from supporters gives the team belief throughout this journey.

Heyneke Meyer’s Influence on the Dotsure SWD Eagles

The arrival of Heyneke Meyer has brought renewed optimism around the Dotsure SWD Eagles rugby team.

In a recent interview, Meyer explained the ambition driving the project: “The sky is the limit. But for me, the limit is not there, because that’s where Eagles fight.”

That mentality has filtered throughout the squad, with many players describing the current environment as an opportunity to build something meaningful for the region.

Centre Carlton Banies said the team wants to put pride back into the Eagles badge, while prop Sisipho Nofuya described his move to the Eagles as “a second opportunity to play the game I love”.

More Than Just Rugby

Away from the field, the squad includes players with a wide range of interests and backgrounds.

Niël Beukes runs a mobile coffee business, Nathan Meilhon is a qualified chef, and fly-half Junaid Damons originally dreamed of becoming a professional football player before choosing rugby.

While supporters continue to follow the Dotsure SWD Eagles results closely this season, the players say the bigger mission is creating a team and culture that the Southern Cape can proudly support for years to come.

For the squad, success is measured not only by results on the scoreboard, but also by rebuilding excitement around Eagles rugby in George and reconnecting the team with its community roots.

^{Dotsure Limited (Registration number 2006/000723/06) is a licensed non-life insurer and authorised financial services provider (FSP39925).}