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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA CONGRATULATES PRESIDENT-ELECT DONALD TRUMP ON HIS WIN |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has joined world leaders to congratulate Donald Trump after he has been elected as the 47th United States (US) President. |
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Following the historic victory, President Ramaphosa took to X (formerly Twitter) to congratulate Donald Trump.
“Congratulations to United States President-Elect Donald Trump on your return to the Presidency.
“I look forward to continuing the close and mutually beneficial partnership between our two nations across all domains of our cooperation. In the global arena, we look forward to our Presidency of the G20 in 2025, where we will work closely with the US, who will succeed us in the G20 Presidency in 2026,” President Ramaphosa posted.
The Republican candidate defeated Democrat Kamala Harris in the presidential election by securing more than the 270 Electoral College votes needed to win the Presidency on 5 November 2024.
– Source: https://x.com/cyrilramaphosa |
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| PRESIDENT CONGRATULATES PRESIDENT-ELECT DUMA OF BOTSWANA |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has offered his warm congratulations to His Excellency President-Elect Duma Boko and the government and people of the Republic of Botswana on the success of the recently concluded elections. |
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During his telephone call with President-Elect Boko, President Ramaphosa once again commended the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) coalition on its success in the election under the leadership of President-Elect Boko.
According to media reports, the UDC won the elections in a landslide victory as the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), which had been in power since independence in 1966, won only four parliamentary seats as of Friday afternoon, 1 November 2024.
Elections in Botswana were held on 30 October 2024.
President Ramaphosa welcomed the immediate establishment of transitional plans between the outgoing administration that was led by President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the incoming administration of President Boko. |
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“The success of the elections in our sister nation and the seamless transition that is already underway affirms the demonstration of democratic maturity in our region and on our continent. As South Africa, we look forward to deepening our fraternal relations and cooperation with the Republic of Botswana, with outcomes that will benefit both our nations," President Ramaphosa said.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA RECEIVES VISIT FROM PRINCE WILLIAM |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa received a courtesy call from His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, Prince William, on Tuesday, 5 November 2024. |
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The meeting between the President and The Prince of Wales took place at the Official Residence of the President in Cape Town.
“The President and Prince William held discussions on a number of key issues of mutual interest.
“The visit is indicative of the strong ties the United Kingdom, including the Royal Family, share with South Africa and also another step towards the deepening of these historic ties,” The Presidency said in a statement.
Prince William is in South Africa to host the fourth Annual Earthshot Prize Awards ceremony held on Wednesday, 6 November 2024. |
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“The Earthshot Prize is a remarkable initiative that shines a light on the impact of climate change, environmental degradation and pollution, as well as the creative solutions people and communities across the globe generate.
“South Africa is pleased to be the host country for this year’s awards, especially because of the focus this initiative places on the impact climate change and environmental degradation have on the African continent.
“Moreover, the Awards have created local jobs and provided an opportunity for South African artists and designers to showcase their talent,” the President explained.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za
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| DEPUTY PRESIDENT MASHATILE TO ATTEND EARTHSHOT PRIZE AWARDS |
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| Deputy President Paul Mashatile attended the fourth Annual Earthshot Prize Awards ceremony on Wednesday evening, 6 November 2024, in Cape Town. |
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The Deputy President attended the ceremony at the invitation of Britain’s Prince William and on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa.
This marked the first time the event was held in South Africa.
Started by Prince William in 2020, the prize supports sustainable, eco-friendly projects from around the world. Five winners each receive GBP£ 1 million.
According to the Deputy President’s Office, the prize is the most prestigious global prize for the environment in history, despite only being in its fourth year.
“Since then, the significant work that Earthshot has done by scaling ingenious solutions to the most pressing challenges facing the world, such as climate change, waste management, cleaning our air, saving our oceans, and saving and restoring nature is remarkable and aligned with South Africa’s priorities towards climate action, environmental protection and restoration, and cleaning the environment,” the Deputy President said.
Every year, the organisers search the globe for game-changing innovations that will help repair the planet and award the winners of the best five solutions with money to scale their work. |
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The initiative exists to discover, spotlight and help grow innovative solutions that are working to repair and regenerate our planet.
Last year, Earthshot welcomed its first South African finalist, ABALOBI, whose technology is making it easier for small fishing communities to monitor fish populations, improve market access, and recognise these communities as stewards of oceans.
“It is of particular importance that the focus of the Earthshot Prize Awards is on the impact of climate change on Africa and the innovative solutions found on the African continent to mitigate the impact of climate change and environmental degradation.”
Meanwhile, the Deputy President said it was an “honour” to welcome the Prince of Wales to South Africa, highlighting the unique relationship the Royal Family has with the country.
“The Prince of Wales continues to show his steadfast support and commitment to campaigning for the environment and advocating for the protection of our planet. These prestigious awards play a critical role in supporting and celebrating small enterprises that make a huge difference,” the Deputy President added.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| MINISTER LAMOLA TO HOST HIS UK COUNTERPART IN CAPE TOWN |
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| International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola hosted Rt. Hon David Lammy, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development of the United Kingdom (UK) on Tuesday, 5 November 2024, in Cape Town. The meeting focussed on strengthening relations between South Africa and the UK. |
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According to the department, the meeting between the Minister and the UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development will focus on strengthening relations between the two nations.
“The UK is one of South Africa’s most significant bilateral partners, particularly in trade, investment, skills development, science, innovation, the Just Energy Transition and tourism, among others,” the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said.
According to Lammy’s office, he began his visit to the continent in Nigeria, his first trip to Africa as Foreign Secretary, and the first to visit South Africa since 2013.
Committing to a fresh approach to Africa that works productively from Morocco to Madagascar, Lammy announced the start of a five-month consultation process to ensure African voices inform and sit at the very heart of the UK’s new approach to the continent.
“Accommodating the diverse needs and ambitions of 54 countries, the consultation will guarantee the UK’s relationships across Africa are based on mutual respect and partnership,” Lammy's office said.
Lammy believes Africa has huge growth potential, with the continent on track to make up 25% of the world’s population by 2050.
“Our new approach will deliver respectful partnerships that listen rather than tell, deliver long-term growth rather than short-term solutions, and build a freer, safer, more prosperous continent. I want to hear what our African partners need and foster relationships so that the UK and our friends and partners in Africa can grow together,“ he said.
According to Lammy, growth is the core mission of the UK government and will underpin relationships in Nigeria, South Africa, and beyond.
“This will mean more jobs, more prosperity and more opportunities for Brits and Africans alike.”
In South Africa, Lammy’s office said he will agree to develop a new UK-South Africa Growth Plan.
“South Africa is our largest trading partner on the continent and this plan will allow trade to flourish even more through collaboration on market access, a new UK Trade Partnership programme to boost South Africa exports, and a new programme to increase the number of agricultural jobs in rural South Africa. This will simultaneously boost trade for Brits while bolstering opportunities within South Africa.”
At the biennial UK-South Africa bilateral forum, the Foreign Secretary and Minister Lamola will refresh the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to 2030, raising joint ambition on climate, nature, trade and security, and committing to UK-South Africa cooperation for the next two years on trade and investment, energy transition, and security.
South African exports to the UK supported over 137 000 jobs in 2020. The Foreign Secretary will boost this with the renewal of a risk-sharing partnership between British International Investment and Standard Chartered to provide trade finance for SMEs and corporates operating across Africa and Asia.
“No growth can be truly inclusive or effective unless it is green,” the statement from Lammy's office read.
While in South Africa, Foreign Secretary Lammy will celebrate climate innovation at the Earthshot+ Thought Leadership Conference.
– Source: www.dirco.gov.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICA WELCOMES THE CONVENING OF THE SIXTH CONFERENCE OF STATES PARTIES TO THE AFRICAN NUCLEAR WEAPONS FREE ZONE TREATY (PELINDABA TREATY) |
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| South Africa welcomes the convening and the outcome of the Sixth Conference of States Parties (CSP) to the African Nuclear Weapons Free Zone Treaty (Pelindaba Treaty) held in the last week of October 2024 at the Headquarters of the African Union (AU) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. |
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South Africa welcomes the convening and the outcome of the Sixth Conference of States Parties (CSP) to the African Nuclear Weapons Free Zone Treaty (Pelindaba Treaty) held in the last week of October 2024 at the Headquarters of the AU in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
States Parties to the Treaty reaffirmed their commitment to the Pelindaba Treaty and noted with concern recent events and actions that have negatively affected the operations of the Secretariat and the work of the African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE). They resolved to take the necessary measures to prevent such challenges in the future and strengthen cooperation among themselves and between the Treaty structures.
States Parties reaffirmed the decision taken by the Chairperson of the AU Commission on 30 July 2024 to dismiss the former Executive Secretary, Enobot Agboraw. They decided that a recruitment process to appoint a new Executive Secretary of AFCONE should commence urgently.
Furthermore, States Parties noted the difficult task of the Government of South Africa, as the host country, to implement the decision by the AU Commission Chair regarding the dismissal of the former Executive Secretary and confirmed that no dispute exists between AFCONE and South Africa as the host country. The conference expressed appreciation to South Africa for its continued cooperation and support and for hosting the AFCONE Headquarters.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) trusts that the pronouncement of the sixth CSP outcomes, as well as the dismissal by the High Court of South Africa (Gauteng Division: Pretoria) on 18 September 2024, of the urgent application brought by Mr Agboraw, against the department regarding the withdrawal of his diplomatic immunities and privileges following termination of Mr Agboraw’s employment contract as Executive Secretary of the AFCONE Secretariat, will effectively dispel the unfounded and false allegations in recent media reports against officials in the department who have been carrying out their official responsibilities.
South Africa remains fully committed to the Pelindaba Treaty and achieving its objectives, including the establishment of an effective, impartial and professional Secretariat of AFCONE that can execute its mandate satisfactorily in promoting the peaceful application of nuclear energy on the African continent.
South Africa will continue to work with all States Parties to the Pelindaba Treaty to prevent any further reputational, operational and financial damage to AFCONE and its Secretariat and to restore its credibility in the interest of the African continent.
– Source: www.dirco.gov.za |
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| MINISTER KUBAYI LEADS SOUTH AFRICAN DELEGATION TO WORLD URBAN FORUM IN EGYPT |
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| Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi is leading a government delegation to the 12th World Urban Forum’s (WUF12) Summit taking place from 4 to 8 November 2024, in Egypt, Cairo. |
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The WUF12, a high-level forum established by the United Nations (UN) in 2021, is convened by the UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and hosted by member states every two years on a rotational basis.
Held under the theme: It All Starts at Home. Local Actions for Sustainable Cities and Communities, the summit brings together delegates, including ministers from across the globe, to explore how the different spheres of government can work better together to achieve the vision for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The summit places particular attention on multilevel governance arrangements and partnerships for adequate housing, climate action, finance systems, digital technology, and urban crises response.
It will seek to address one of the currently pressing issues in the world: rapid urbanisation and its impact on communities, cities, economies, climate change and policies.
WUF12 aligns with this year's theme, emphasising the vital role local action plays in accelerating urban sustainability.
The department said, while at the summit, the Minister will participate in a number of sessions as a panellist and address a number of other sessions, including the session on localising the implementation of the global action plan for accelerating the transformation of slums and informal settlements.
The Minister will also participate in a number of ministerial sessions and have bilateral meetings with global leaders on the sidelines of the summit.
“The networking session will create a dialogue space between India, Brazil, and South Africa (IBSA) countries and development partners around the Global Action Plan to share visions and actions for slum transformation, localised prioritisation, and multi-partnership approaches,” the department said in a statement.
The South African delegation includes officials from all spheres of government, Human Settlements entities, Members of the Executive Councils responsible for Human Settlements, representatives from the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), Mayors and Members of Mayoral Committees of Human Settlements.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| CAPE TOWN LAUNCHES 2024/2025 CRUISE SEASON WITH WORLD ODYSSEY |
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| The arrival of the “World Odyssey” at the Port of Cape Town last week, officially launched South Africa’s 2024/2025 cruise season. Sailing under the Bahamas flag, the “World Odyssey” brought 538 international tourists, initiating a season anticipated to bring approximately 130 000 tourists to Cape Town. |
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This season will see 268 scheduled passenger liners across seven South African commercial seaports managed by the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), marking a growth from last year’s 207 call-ins.
Cape Town’s growing stature in the global cruise market is backed by strong economic contributions from the industry. According to Wesgro, the cruise sector brought R1.32 billion to the Western Cape economy in the 2023/2024 season, an increase from R1.2 billion in the previous year. These figures underscore the resilience and strength of Cape Town’s cruise industry, even as global economic challenges persist. Expenditures by vessels, passengers, and crew reached R1.5 billion, supporting 1 965 jobs across sectors such as retail, hospitality, and tourism services, showing how integral the cruise industry is to the local economy.
Cruise Cape Town, driven by Wesgro, celebrated the new season’s official launch at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Wesgro’s latest report, the Western Cape Cruise Liner Industry 2023/2024 Season Report, offered a comprehensive overview of last season, which ran from November 2023 to June 2024. Despite a slight drop in the number of ship calls—from 70 the previous year to 67—the economic impact saw a significant increase, reflecting the high spending power of cruise passengers. Ship calls are a crucial metric for the cruise industry, as they correlate closely with tourism revenue generated in the region.
For the 2023/2024 season, spending by international passengers and cruise lines reached R715 million and R713 million, respectively, with additional contributions from domestic passengers and crew. This expenditure generated a total R1.32 billion boost for the Western Cape economy and a R1.69 billion contribution to South Africa’s gross domestic product.
The cruise season’s impact extends well beyond financial metrics, creating jobs and stimulating the local economy. Last season, 1 096 full-time equivalent jobs were directly generated, with the multiplier effect bringing the total to 1 965 jobs across sectors such as retail, hospitality, port services, transportation, and water provision. Retail, driven by passenger spending on local goods, accounted for 47% of these jobs, while hotels and restaurants made up 31%.
Reflecting on these results, Wesgro CEO Wrenelle Stander highlighted the industry’s strength and value: “The 2023/2024 season has reinforced Cape Town and the Western Cape’s standing as a premier destination for international cruise lines. The R1.32 billion injection into the Western Cape economy showcases the sector’s resilience and its consistent value to businesses and communities across the province.”
As the 2024/2025 season progresses, Cape Town’s commitment to providing a world-class experience for cruise passengers and operators positions it as a top African cruise destination. The city’s location on one of the world’s busiest routes, supported by TNPA’s reliable marine services, ensures Cape Town’s standing as a preferred cruise destination while driving sustained growth and job creation across the region.
– Source: www.thenewspaper.co.za |
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| KYALAMI’S BOLD MOVE TO BRING FORMULA 1 BACK TO SOUTH AFRICAN SOIL |
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| The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, an icon of South African motorsport, has just received the green light for an exciting upgrade to Federation International de I’Automobile (FIA) Grade 1 status, enabling it to host Formula 1, MotoGP, and other major motorsport events. |
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This ambitious project, spearheaded alongside Apex Circuit Design, envisions the return of the South African Grand Prix—a milestone that motorsport enthusiasts and fans have eagerly anticipated for decades.
With a rich history stretching back to 1961, the Kyalami Circuit became a hub for world-class racing in South Africa, hosting 23 Formula 1 races until 1993. The legacy of those Grand Prix races, alongside the memories created there, remains deeply woven into the fabric of South African sport. Yet, despite many efforts to revive Formula 1 at Kyalami, internal obstacles have repeatedly stood in the way. Jody Scheckter, South Africa’s former F1 world champion, has often spoken openly about these challenges, reflecting on how past attempts were hindered.
But now, with renewed resolve, Kyalami’s dream of welcoming the world’s best racing talent back to its track is finally within reach.
As part of its plan, Kyalami has partnered with the globally respected Apex Circuit Design to meet FIA’s stringent Grade 1 standards. Apex has made its mark designing some of the world’s premier racetracks and will be instrumental in ensuring Kyalami is ready for this historic opportunity.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, is fully behind this initiative, having met with Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali in Azerbaijan in September 2024.
“We are one step closer to bringing it [Formula 1] to South Africa,” he announced, expressing optimism after productive meetings with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
Minister McKenzie’s support, alongside Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s, is a strong vote of confidence in the potential of Kyalami. And for Toby Venter, Kyalami Circuit’s owner, this is the fulfilment of years of dedication and vision. Venter has consistently advocated for Kyalami as a perfect home for Formula 1 in Africa, and his commitment to this cause has now inspired a nationwide surge of excitement.
This resurgence of interest in African motorsport has also resonated internationally, with F1 star Lewis Hamilton continuously emphasising the importance of bringing Formula 1 to the continent. Speaking to media at the Dutch Grand Prix earlier this year, Hamilton shared a powerful perspective on the need for Africa’s inclusion on the F1 circuit.
“We can’t be adding races in other locations and continuing to ignore Africa, which the rest of the world just takes from. No one gives anything to Africa,” the seven-time world champion stated.
Having recently visited the continent during F1’s summer break, Hamilton passionately argued that Africa deserves a place in Formula 1, not only to showcase its beauty but also to foster tourism and economic growth.
“There’s a huge amount of work that needs to be done there,” Hamilton continued, emphasising that many who haven’t visited the continent might not realise its vast beauty and potential.
“I think having a Grand Prix there will really be able to highlight just how great the place is and bring in tourism and all sorts of things.”
The revival of the South African Grand Prix promises to be a landmark event for Africa and the global motorsport community. More than just a race, it embodies the passion and resilience of those who believe South Africa deserves a place in the F1 circuit once again.
For fans, it’s the opportunity to see their home track shine on the world stage, igniting excitement, unity, and national pride. For our country, it’s a celebration of South African spirit, tenacity, and pride on the world stage.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| CAPE TOWN IN THE RUNNING TO HOST GAY GAMES 2030 |
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| A delegation from Cape Town travelled to Washington, DC, last weekend to present the city’s bid to host the 13th Gay Games in 2030 and received a standing ovation from delegates of the Federation of Gay Games (FGG), reflecting strong international support. |
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| Cape Town is currently one of seven cities and the only one on the African continent contending to host the 2030 Gay Games. |
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The bid emphasised Cape Town’s capability to safely host a major international event, highlighting its standing as a global tourism and events hub. Since 1982, the quadrennial Gay Games have been hosted in cities worldwide, although neither Africa nor South America has yet hosted the event. The games are celebrated for promoting diversity, participation, inclusion and personal achievement for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Ian McMahon, a key supporter of Cape Town’s bid, noted that the games typically attract over 10 000 participants of all skill levels, competing in more than 30 sports over 10 days. “Athletes across the spectrum of sexual orientation and gender identity are welcome to participate, making it one of the most inclusive sporting events globally,” he said. In addition to sports, the Gay Games include a cultural programme featuring theatre, choral and music performances, art exhibitions and remembrance ceremonies.
David Ryan, Co-chair of the Gay Games Cape Town 2030 Bid Committee, sees the bid as an opportunity to reshape narratives about queer identity in Africa. “While the Mother City is known among the global LGBTQIA+ community as the Gay Capital of Africa, we envision the Gay Games as a catalyst for conversations and lasting change around LGBTQIA+ acceptance in Cape Town, South Africa, and the continent.” |
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The Cape Town bid team comprises influential LGBTQIA+ advocates, including Sheryl Ozinsky, MCQP founder Andre Vorster, Olympian Leigh-Ann Naidoo and activist Ndumie Funda. Event specialists WorldSport South Africa are leading the operational planning with a proposed programme featuring 34 sports and 12 cultural events.
Geordin Hill-Lewis, Cape Town Mayor, expressed his support for the bid. “South Africa is a beacon of diversity and inclusion, with one of the most progressive constitutions upholding human rights. In Cape Town, you can live authentically, protected against discrimination based on beliefs, gender identity or sexual orientation.” He encouraged support for Cape Town’s bid to bring the games to Africa.
Cape Town submitted a formal bid in August 2024 and progressed to one of the final seven contending cities. Competing cities include Denver (the United States), Auckland (New Zealand), Edmonton (Canada), Melbourne and Perth (Australia) and Taipei (Taiwan). The shortlisted cities are expected to be announced in December 2024 and the final decision in late 2025.
– Source: www.tourismupdate.co.za |
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| DURBAN STUDENT LUYANDA MAJOZI WINS PRESTIGIOUS GLOBAL START-UP COMPETITION IN CHINA |
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| A Durban fashion visionary, Luyanda Majozi recently clinched victory at the prestigious Guangzhou International Sister-City Universities (GISU) Urban Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition in China for his sustainable streetwear clothing brand. |
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Luyanda Majozi, a budding entrepreneur with a creative flair, clinched victory in the Start-Up Category at the prestigious GISU Urban Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition in China on Wednesday, 30 October 2024.
The Durban University of Technology (DUT) student and owner of sustainable streetwear apparel label Enigmatic Cotton said that reaching the finals of the 2024 Alliance Urban Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition was an exhilarating milestone for him and his brand.
Majozi’s triumph is more than just a win; it is a testament to the power of youthful ambition and sustainable fashion.
“It validates our vision of creating a sustainable fashion hub and showcases the impact of our innovative approach to the fashion industry.
“This achievement means that our efforts to blend sustainability, style and community empowerment are being recognised on a global platform, giving us the momentum to push further towards our goals,” shared Majozi.
According to DUT, the Alliance of GISU, which connects universities globally through collaborative initiatives, hosts an annual Urban Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition.
Open to full-time students and graduates from GISU’s member and affiliate universities, the competition provides a global platform for young innovators to present their solutions to real-world challenges.
Game-changers like Majozi are paving the way for a generation of adaptive graduates who will make transformative contributions to society, uplifting lives and livelihoods in impactful ways.
The university extended gratitude to everyone involved in supporting Majozi, acknowledging the dedication of faculty, mentors and peers who have played an instrumental role in helping him achieve success.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| THABO RAMETSI TEAMS UP WITH CHARLIZE THERON ON COMIC SERIES IMBOKODO TO HONOUR AFRICA’S WARRIOR WOMEN |
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| “Kalushi” star Thabo Rametsi and his business partner Thabiso Mabanna have collaborated with South African global star Charlize Theron for their comic series, “Imbokodo”. |
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Co-founded by Rametsi, an award-winning actor, and corporate finance strategist Mabanna, the series aims to honour the great warrior women of Africa—legendary figures like Nandi, Nzinga, Modjadji, Llinga, Amina, Nehanda, and the many strong queens who shaped history and continue to inspire people.
The series collaborates with Theron’s newly launched media venture, Secret Menu, alongside industry heavyweights like Dawn Olmstead, Beth Kono, and AJ Dix, aiming to adapt the series into a scripted format. |
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Theron said she and her team were thrilled with the series idea from the moment they were introduced to it.
“When Thabo and Thabiso from Nguniverse Studios first brought us this idea, we were so impressed with the epic scope and emotional depth of the world they created, centred around incredibly powerful female African warriors.
“We knew we had found a perfect home in Dark Horse when they recognised the same potential in Thabo and Thabiso’s unique vision. As our company’s first foray into publishing, we couldn’t have asked for better creative partners, and we can’t wait for the world to meet the indomitable warrior women of Imbokodo.”
Rametsi said the project isn’t just about creating a comic series but about immortalising African mythology and history in a way that resonates with audiences worldwide.
He added: “Having a partner as dedicated to bringing diverse stories to life as we have elevated Imbokodo to a new level.”
About the series
The storyline unfolds in a land plagued by war among the Badimu tribes, set a thousand years later in Ndawo, which remains fragmented into competing empires.
As a brutal conflict rages, mysterious disappearances of young girls from the Monomotapa empire cast a dark shadow over the land.
Enter Queen Nyameka and the Imbokodo, Ndawo’s fiercest warriors, who are tasked with uncovering the truth behind these vanishing girls, all while a nameless woman searches for her missing sister.
Imbokodo #1 is available in local comic shops, with Volume #2 set for release on 12 February 2025, followed by Volume #3 on 9 April 2025, and the grand finale, Volume #4, on 4 June 2025.
– Source: www.citizen.co.za |
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| FROM ELSIESRIVIER TO TIMES SQUARE: CRAIG LUCAS CONTINUES TO GLOW |
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| South Africa’s Craig Lucas recently got to see himself on a billboard in New York City’s iconic Times Square in what was a glowing moment of gratitude and reflection for the singer from Elsiesrivier. |
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Craig Lucas knows that opportunities for South Africans to share their music on prominent platforms with the world are few and far between.
The odds seem even tougher the further out from local city centres you go. But if the singer from Elsiesrivier proved anything with his latest appearance on a billboard in New York City’s Times Square, the odds are meant to be tested and overcome.
From winning The Voice SA Season 2 to becoming a Global Goodwill Ambassador for the Justice Desk, sharing his music with more countries, and now representing South Africa in Times Square, Craig Lucas has come a long way from Clarke Estate in Elsiesrivier.
His journey from then to now is not something he takes for granted. Rather, it’s an indicator that hard work and perseverance can lead one far beyond their wildest imaginings. |
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“I won’t say this is a dream come true because this is beyond anything I could imagine,” Craig shared in reflecting on the moment.
“Things like this don’t often happen for kids like me from Clarke Estate. I feel like my hard work and perseverance are starting to pay off.”
Craig adds that opportunities and support are key to a moment of pride like this, especially in an industry where proper support is often underserved.
The billboard in question was exactly that—an opportunity for South African LGBTQIA+ artists to showcase their music in one epic, glowing playlist that takes listeners through the local likes of MOONGA K, Moonchild Sanelly, Toya Delazy and Armand Joubert with Craig Lucas.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| PROTEAS CELEBRATE AFTER TAKING STEPS FORWARD IN CLEAN SWEEP OVER MALAWI |
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| Team captain Khanyisa Chawane is pleased with the early progress shown by the Proteas netball squad under new leadership. |
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Captaining the SA team for the first time since she took the reins from former skipper Bongi Msomi, Chawane led them to a 3-0 clean sweep in their three-match Test series against Malawi at Ellis Park, which concluded on Sunday, 3 November 2024.
The Proteas crushed the tourists in all three Spar Challenge encounters. After racing to a 68-31 victory in the first game, they picked up a 69-38 win in the second fixture before coasting to a 69-24 victory in the final clash.
“I’m really happy with how we went about this whole series, how we started and how we finished,” Chawane said.
“As much as the coaches did look for more consistency, I think we did climb up each and every game and really improved.
“I’m really impressed with the group because every combination that the coach decided to put on, we were there for one another and really played well.”
Though she and her squad had set themselves loftier goals in the long run, head coach Jenny van Dyk was delighted to get her tenure off to a winning start. Van Dyk, coaching the team for the first time in a series since taking over from Norma Plummer, felt they had taken some steps forward as they looked ahead to some bigger challenges next season.
“At this stage, it’s important for us to enjoy the moment,” Van Dyk said.
“We’ve got a 3-0 victory over Malawi on our first run and we’ve tested quite a lot of different combinations and we’ve put all our players to the test.”
Kamogelo Maseko was named Player of the Series, and the 22-year-old goal attack said the Proteas had learned a lot as a squad, despite their opponents struggling to put up much of a fight.
“Malawi offered a different style of play every match so it was just about adapting but also not derailing from the game plan,” Maseko said.
“This Test series helped us set our own standards as a team and to just see where we are as a unit.”
– Source: www.citizen.co.za |
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| EQUESTRIAN BAGS BRONZE AFTER INTERNATIONAL SHOWJUMPING SHOWDOWN |
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| South African equestrian Victoria Greyvensteyn from Benoni has brought home the bronze after a spectacular competition at the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) Jumping World Challenge Final. |
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Held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Greyvensteyn was one of the youngest athletes to compete out of the twenty athletes selected from 12 nations across four continents.
The showjumping World Challenge was an important opportunity as one that offers equestrians —who are otherwise unable to participate in major competitions—the chance to compete against international competitors.
Adding an extra challenge into the fold, every rider drew a horse, which they would then be paired with for the week. This meant that they had limited time to train with their paired horse (only 45 minutes of flat work and 90 seconds to do a course of jumps) before the actual competition commenced.
“I couldn’t have asked for a sweeter, more honest ride,” she shared of her pairing with horse, Jodcasall A-Z.
Greyvensteyn competed in two qualifying rounds, where she clinched fifth and third place, respectively. For her efforts with Jodcasall A-Z, she was deemed the third-highest qualified. In the finals, she and her ride finished the final off with a beautiful bronze.
This has added to an exciting year for the equestrian who, earlier this year, won the SA Junior Outdoor Grand Prix Title on her mare, Sunny Park Classic Queen.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICAN SURFERS GEAR UP FOR THE EPIC 2024 ISA WORLD PARA SURFING CHAMPIONSHIPS IN CALIFORNIA |
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| South Africa’s para surfers are poised to make history at the highly anticipated 2024 Internation Surfing Association (ISA) World Para Surfing Championship at Huntington Beach in California. The action-packed surfing event will see 151 resilient athletes compete for the coveted team gold medals. |
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With Tracy Lee McKay and JP Veaudry representing the nation and Owami Zama and McKay leading the team, South Africa’s para surfers are set to make Mzansi proud and inspire the world.
Veaudry’s surfing classification is Male Para Surf Stand 1, while McKay’s is Female Para Surf Prone 1. Each classification will crown men’s and women’s world champions.
According to ISA, a huge list of former world champions will return to defend their titles at the highly anticipated event, which will run from 3 to 9 November 2024 at Huntington Beach.
Fifteen men and 10 women who have won world titles will be present in Huntington Beach and 51 athletes representing 25 national teams will gather to compete for the coveted Team Gold Medals. The current Team World Champions, Team France, will seek to defend their title.
Big on inclusivity and gender equity, the ISA has officially classified over 300 para surfers and the event will see women making up over a third of the total competition.
The ISA will also host a gathering of Para Surfing women before the World Para Surfing Championship to join in the community, share resources, discuss barriers, and aim to promote Para Surfing to more women.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| KJ MONONYANE POISED TO ROAR HIS ENGINE ON THE GLOBAL MOTORCYCLE WORLD |
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| Kgopotso Mononyane, affectionately known as KJ, is rewriting the future of South African motorcycle racing. At just 17, he has re-signed with AGR Racing Team for the 2025 FIM JuniorGP season and is well on his way to reaching his global championships dreams. |
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The speed enthusiast is making exciting waves in the global motorcycle world, having just re-signed with his AGR Racing Team for the 2025 FIM JuniorGP season, according to Motorsport South Africa.
It was also reported that he picked up two points, finishing second in his debut season. All eyes will be on KJ to fly the South African flag high.
KJ is also competing in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, which has been one of his all-time dreams.
He got his first break in 2017 after Neil Harran from the South African Motorcycle Racing Academy visited his school’s open day and was blown away by the talented 10-year-old.
KJ was soon enrolled in Harram’s academy and the ball was set in motion to have the racing prodigy compete in the short circuit road racing series in the NSF100cc Honda Cup.
Two years later, KJ won his first championship in 2019 and has since won multiple titles. These include being named Winner of the Clubman’s Championship, First in the 150-Cup Championship, as well as First in the MRRSA Championship SUB 500 in the Motorcycle Racing Series South Africa.
His mother, Kgomotso Mononyane, has constantly been by his side, especially since the passing of his father.
“His dad believed so much in his potential, so much so that he wanted to see KJ race overseas. He signed a contract and submitted it to the team in Italy the day before he died.
“Signing this contract was the greatest achievement for him and he told me to always believe in our son. If he were alive now, he would be bursting with pride,” shares Kgomotso.
As KJ builds his promising career, he says that he remains committed to pushing his limits and striving for excellence.
“I am confident in my ability to keep improving. My ultimate goal is to compete in the MotoGP. Right now, I believe that I am on the right track and with hard work, patience and consistency, I am getting closer to making that dream a reality,” says the determined racing champ.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICAN FATHER-SON STRONGMAN DUO SET TO COMPETE ON WORLD STAGE |
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| The South African Strongman community has two strong contenders ready to fly the flag high in the United States (US). Shane Jensen (50) and his 15-year-old stepson, Shaun Boshoff, are preparing to compete in the Official Strongman Games, set to take place from 5 to 8 December 2024, in Madison, Wisconsin, US. |
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As a rare father-son duo, these two generations of South African Strongmen are ready to take on the world’s strongest athletes, representing the country with incredible power, heart and grit.
Jensen, who has been dubbed one of the strongest men in the world, will be competing in the Masters over 50 division, while his stepson, Shaun, will compete in the Junior division (16–18 years). The Official Strongman Games is a globally renowned event that brings together nearly 400 of the top Strongman and Strongwoman athletes from over 35 countries, competing in a festival of strength to determine the World’s Strongest title across multiple divisions. With events like the Log Challenge, Car Walk, Deadlift Ladder, Sandbag Medley, and more, the competition is sure to be intense.
Shane’s Strongman journey began by chance in the late 90s, but it took a dramatic turn in 2016 when a traumatic incident almost ended his career. After being shot through the hand and face, his injuries were so severe that doctors told him he would never lift heavy weights again. But Shane proved them wrong, returning to the gym and eventually competing both in South Africa and internationally, even reaching Iceland’s Strongman events. Now, he is a top contender in his division, holding multiple titles and records, including Africa’s Apollon’s Axle Bar Deadlift record at 325kg.
Shaun, inspired by his stepfather’s resilience and strength, started training two years ago. His journey into Strongman began when he pulled a five-ton truck at a show, a feat that solidified his desire to follow in Shane’s footsteps. Shaun, currently a top Junior athlete in South Africa, holds the SA Junior Deadlift record at 235kg and the SA Silver Dollar Deadlift record at 340kg.
Shaun is a Grade 10 student at Langenhoven Gymnasium in Oudtshoorn and a rising star in South Africa’s Junior Strongman division.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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