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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA VISITS BMW GROUP |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa attended a showcase of the successful implementation of the latest investment for the production of the new BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle at the automaker’s plant in Rosslyn, Pretoria, on Thursday, 24 July 2025. |
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President Ramaphosa delivered remarks at the end of his tour of the plant, where he was accompanied only by BMW representatives.
Themed BMW Group South Africa: Leading Today, Enabling Tomorrow, the event marking the start of the new vehicle will highlight the firm’s commitment to strengthening South Africa's economic vitality and advancing industrial innovation.
“The event will showcase the active partnership between industry and government—a collaboration essential for driving innovation, catalysing job creation, and propelling sustainable growth within South Africa’s automotive sector.
“It also demonstrates the BMW Group’s dedication to leading today through operational excellence and enabling tomorrow by strategically investing in the nation's future,” the Presidency said of Thursday’s visit.
The new BMW X3 has been declared South Africa’s Car of the Year for 2025.
The BMW Group announced further investment in its plant operations in Rosslyn during the President's Investment Conference held on 13 April 2023, as a commitment to South Africa.
BMW has a long history in the country, and its footprint has grown significantly over time. Its investment at the Rosslyn plant located in Gauteng dates back five decades.
The plant operations are also a significant anchor and justification for the continued operations of BMW in South Africa, including the National Sales Company, BMW Financial Services, and BMW IT Development Hub.
BMW and its supply chain sustain tens of thousands of livelihoods directly and indirectly as a result of BMW Group activities in South Africa.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| DEPUTY PRESIDENT MASHATILE CONCLUDES WORKING VISIT TO CHINA |
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| Deputy President Paul Mashatile has concluded a successful Working Visit to China aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and economic cooperation between South Africa and China. |
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At the invitation of the Chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), Ren Hongbin, the Deputy President participated in the third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), which took place from 16 to 20 July 2025 in Beijing, China.
CISCE is the world’s first national-level expo dedicated to global supply chains, hosted under the auspices of the Chinese central government and organised by the CCPIT.
The Deputy President used South Africa’s participation at CISCE as a strategic opportunity to advance the South China All-Round Strategic Cooperative Partnership in the New Era.
“This also reinforced South Africa’s role as a key gateway to sub-Saharan Africa for trade, investment and industrial cooperation,” The Presidency said in a statement.
During the expo, the Deputy President officially launched the South African National Pavilion.
The pavilion showcased over 30 South African entities from a variety of sectors, including agro-processing, electronics, chemicals, leather, footwear and textiles, cosmetics, mining services, and the creative industries. |
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The opening of the 2025 South African National Pavilion was a focused response to resolutions made at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing in 2024.
“This is significant in that it demonstrates how South Africa is an important trade partner to China.”
During the Working Visit, the Deputy President held a bilateral meeting with Vice President Han Zheng of China.
“Vice President Zheng expressed confidence in the South African government and emphasised the importance of strengthening existing cooperation. He further reiterated China’s support for South Africa’s Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20),” the statement read.
The Deputy President expressed appreciation for China’s longstanding partnership and extended an invitation to Vice President Zheng to visit South Africa to co-chair the ninth South Africa-China Bi-National Commission at a mutually agreeable date early in 2026.
Deputy President Mashatile met with Ren Hongbin, Chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT).
During their meeting, he emphasised the importance of the expo in South Africa’s efforts to promote trade, enhance investment cooperation, foster innovation, and encourage learning and exchange.
To strengthen bilateral economic relations and explore strategic investment opportunities in key sectors, the Deputy President also had the chance to observe the impressive work being done by companies such as SINOMA International Engineering, the China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC), and the Beijing Automotive International Corporation (BAIC).
In addition, the Deputy President’s engagement with the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) and Standard Bank and the South China Business Forum demonstrated the commitment to strengthening Africa-China relations.
Deputy President Mashatile was accompanied by the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Thandi Moraka; the Minister of Small Business Development Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams; Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau; Minister of Water and Sanitation Pemmy Majodina, and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za
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| SOUTH AFRICA CONDEMNS ISRAELI ATTACK ON DAMASCUS |
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| The South African government has condemned Israel’s attacks on the Syrian capital Damascus, blowing up part of the Syrian Ministry of Defence and hitting airstrikes near the Presidential Palace. |
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The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) described the attack on Wednesday, 16 July 2025, as a flagrant violation of the country’s territorial integrity and international law.
“Israel’s announcement on 17 July 2025, that it will continue to occupy Syrian territory south of the capital Damascus is a serious threat to Syria’s sovereignty. Israel’s redeployment of forces in the Golan Heights, its occupation of Quneitra near the Golan Heights, and its airstrikes on Suwayda, Daraa, and in the centre of Damascus are a military escalation that threatens security and stability in the country and the region.
“The United Nations (UN) Secretary General, António Guterres, has called on Israel to cease any violations of Syria’s sovereignty and respect the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement,” DIRCO said on Friday, 18 July 2025. |
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South Africa concurred with the UN Secretary-General, who also condemned Israel’s “escalatory airstrikes” and called for an immediate de-escalation of violence and measures to facilitate humanitarian access.
– Source: www.dirco.gov.za |
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| HOME AFFAIRS DELIVERS DIGNITY TO SOUTH AFRICANS ABROAD |
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| The Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, is proud to announce the rollout of game-changing new Home Affairs service centres abroad that will deliver dignity to South Africans living overseas, who have often waited 12 to 18 months just to obtain a new passport. |
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Through the opening of these new service centres, access is being expanded and turnaround times have been cut to just five weeks. Minister Schreiber launched the first two service centres in Australia this week, in Sydney and Melbourne, with another set to open in Perth by the end of September 2025. Two centres also went live this week in Auckland and Wellington, New Zealand.
This is in addition to the service centre in London, the United Kingdom, which is already operational. Over the coming months, the Department of Home Affairs will open additional service centres in the United Arab Emirates and China, followed by France, Germany and The Netherlands later this year, and North America in the new year.
Further announcements will follow in due course when these service centres open their doors. While the department’s ultimate aim is to deliver Home Affairs@home by making our services available online all around the world, the opening of service centres around the world brings immediate relief to South African citizens living in other countries.
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The new service centres abroad will offer:
- Application intake and processing for adult and minor passports, both for new passports and renewals, ending the need to travel or wait indefinitely for consular appointments.
- Birth registration applications.
- A new online appointment booking system that brings predictability, structure, and transparency to planning while also accommodating walk-ins.
- Email support and SMS-based application tracking so that clients are kept informed every step of the way.
- Opening hours from Monday to Friday, 09:00 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 17:00.
- Most important of all, the services offered will have a five-week turnaround time, compared to the current turnaround time that can take between 12 and 18 months.
The department is also working to upgrade the eHomeAffairs live capture platform, which will enable these centres to also offer Smart ID services and eliminate the use of paper forms. An announcement will be made in due course once this upgrade is complete. Minister Schreiber said, “The rollout of these service centres is yet another step on our journey towards delivering Home Affairs @ home. Home Affairs is now closer than ever before for South Africans living abroad. |
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These improvements are not just about better service; they are about delivering dignity to South Africans—wherever they live in the world.” Minister Schreiber added: “Home Affairs is now delivering for South Africans—including those living abroad—like never before. In just twelve months under the Government of National Unity, Home Affairs is making rapid and sustained progress to resolve long-standing challenges that affect South Africans everywhere.”
Bookings to use the newly-opened facilities in Australia can be made here: https://services.vfsglobal.com/aus/en/zap/attend-centre Bookings to use the newly-opened facilities in New Zealand can be made here: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/nzl/en/zaf/attend-centre.
– Source: www.gov.za |
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| TRADE, INDUSTRY AND COMPETITION ON SOUTH AFRICAN DEFENCE SECTOR COMPANIES ARRIVAL IN TÜRKIYE |
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| A group of South African companies that operate in the defence sector will participate in the International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF), taking place in Istanbul, Türkiye, from 22 to 27 July 2025. |
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This participation is facilitated by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) through its Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA) Scheme, which funds the development of exporters and markets for South African products and services, as well as attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into South Africa.
According to the Deputy Director-General of the Exports Branch at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), Willem van der Spuy, the decision to participate in IDEF 2025 forms part of South Africa’s broader export diversification strategy, which seeks to expand the export of value-added products and services in key industrial policy sectors to global markets, including new dynamic and high-growth destinations.
IDEF 2025 is an internationally acclaimed event showcasing the latest technological advancements and products in the defence industry. This premier exhibition brings together leading figures in the defence sector, offering a significant platform for South Africa to display its defence capabilities and build strategic partnerships with key role-players in Türkiye, as well as with participants from other high-growth markets across Eurasia, the Middle East and North Africa.
“To this end, the department has secured a 164 m² pavilion. The pavilion will showcase to potential new customers products and services of 13 South African companies in the defence, aviation and related sectors. It is also an opportunity to introduce our niche and advanced technologies to a broader international audience, as well as to engage with and participate in emerging trends that are reshaping the global defence industry,” says van der Spuy.
He concluded that the dtic funding and coordinating participation at these events reflect the department’s commitment to South African exporters and positioning the country as a reliable and competitive supplier to global markets in a range of sectors, including in industries with strong technological capabilities and growth potential, such as the defence sector.
– Source: www.gov.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICA STRENGTHENS SCIENCE AND INNOVATION COOPERATION WITH ALGERIA |
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| The Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI) has signed another significant partnership aimed at enhancing science, technology, and innovation cooperation with Algeria. |
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The partnership, known as the Plan of Action for 2026-2028, currently focuses on several strategic areas, including nuclear science and technology, the co-founding and implementation of the African Laser Centre (ALC), and the establishment of the Nanosciences African Network.
In addition, it emphasises the transfer of technical knowledge and equipment, as well as advancements in space propulsion and telecommunications.
The Plan of Action will also explore new areas of cooperation such as nanotechnology, renewable energy, nanomedicine, food and energy security, health innovation and vaccine development, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies and others.
As much as this is a joint programme, South Africa’s National Research Foundation (NRF) will lead its implementation.
As a government-mandated research and science development agency, the NRF funds research, the development of high-end human capacity and critical research infrastructure to promote knowledge production across all disciplinary fields.
This comes after Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Blade Nzimande led a high-level South African delegation on a comprehensive visit focused on science, technology and innovation (STI) in Tunisia and Algeria.
The signing ceremony was preceded by an opening ceremony, where Algeria’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Kamel Bidar, and Minister Nzimande delivered their keynote speeches.
Minister Nzimande reflected on the special bond between South Africa and Algeria. In addition, he said the two nations share a strong commitment to the advancement of the African continent.
“Similarly, our two countries also share a firm commitment to the realisation of a more just and humane world that will be underpinned by the values of human solidarity, peaceful coexistence, and a respect for the sovereignty of all nations, regardless of their size.”
Emphasising the strategic importance of cooperation in STI between South Africa and Algeria, Minister Nzimande stated, “Both Algeria and South Africa recognise that, to address our urgent national development goals and achieve higher levels of development, we must consistently enhance our national scientific capabilities.”
The Minister believes that the countries’ shared conviction about the role of STI in development and commitment to cooperation is, in a way, a continuation of their liberation struggles.
“But now against underdevelopment and for prosperity in our respective countries and on the rest of the continent. I must also say that we are highly impressed by the investments that you have made in building your public science system and its constituent institutions.”
The department emphasised that signing the Plan of Action between South Africa and Algeria is crucial for reinforcing both countries’ commitment to supporting the implementation of key development programmes on the African continent.
These programmes include Agenda 2063, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and the African Union’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA-2034).
South Africa and Tunisia also signed a landmark agreement aimed at scaling up collaboration in STI in a bid to deepen bilateral cooperation.
The agreement, signed during the Official Visit by Minister Nzimande to Tunisia, forms part of the Scaling Up Tunisia-South Africa Strategy.
It includes a detailed plan of action and the formal minutes of a joint research call meeting.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| MOU TO PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT |
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| An agreement has been reached between various entities to enhance collaboration in research, capacity building, and knowledge sharing in science, technology, and innovation (STI) to promote sustainable development. |
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The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by the International Science, Technology and Innovation Centre for South-South Cooperation (ISTIC), in partnership with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and the National Research Foundation (NRF).
The NRF is an entity of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation.
The organisations said that this move marks a significant milestone in South-South cooperation.
UNESCO is a specialised agency of the United Nations (UN) that aims to promote peace and security through international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication.
ISTIC is a leading international platform offering sustainable programmes and services in producing holistic talents towards institutional excellence and augmenting sustainable development for South-South Cooperation.
The MoU was signed by Dr Nare Prudence Makhura, the Executive Director of International Grants and Partnerships at the NRF, during a high-level ceremony in Kuala Lumpur. Also present were senior officials, researchers, and partners from both countries.
“This strategic partnership aims to facilitate collaborative research, enhance capacity-building for early- and mid-career researchers in the Global South, and promote the exchange of knowledge, scientific expertise, and innovation.”
Areas of focus include water, health, climate change, artificial intelligence, and other mutually beneficial fields aligned with national and global priorities.
“This partnership reaffirms our shared commitment to advancing inclusive and sustainable development through science, technology and innovation,” said Director of ISTIC, Tengku Sharizad Tengku Dahlan.
“Together, ISTIC and NRF will create opportunities for co-creation, knowledge exchange, and impactful joint initiatives across the Global South.”
NRF’s Director of International Grants and Partnerships, Michael Nxumalo, stated that through this MoU, the organisation aims to encourage not only research collaboration but also stronger connections between institutions and scientific communities.
“We look forward to nurturing a robust ecosystem of innovation and excellence,” Nxumalo added.
The agreement includes provisions for joint calls for research proposals, workshops, symposia, and the joint development of knowledge products.
“It also sets the stage for future project-specific agreements and the joint mobilisation of resources to support priority initiatives.”
Meanwhile, the leaders said the ISTIC–NRF MoU reinforces the importance of international cooperation in addressing complex global challenges and demonstrates how institutions from the Global South can lead in shaping a more equitable and knowledge-driven future.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICA TO LAUNCH PANDEMIC FUND TO STRENGTHEN HEALTH PREPAREDNESS |
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| The Department of Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), will officially launch the Pandemic Fund on 24 July 2025. |
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As the project lead for this initiative, the Department of Health aims to strengthen South Africa’s capacity to prevent, prepare for, and respond to future pandemics.
According to the joint statement, the launch, scheduled for Thursday, 24 July 2025, in Pretoria, represents a significant milestone in global health security efforts.
The Pandemic Fund, hosted by the World Bank, is a global financing mechanism that provides catalytic funding to support pandemic preparedness and response in low- and middle-income countries.
“South Africa’s engagement through this project reinforces its leadership and commitment to advancing health system resilience,” the statement read.
The launch will feature keynote remarks from national and international leaders, the unveiling of South Africa’s Pandemic Fund implementation strategy, a panel discussion on pandemic preparedness, and opportunities for media engagement and networking with key stakeholders.
The gathering will feature senior officials from various departments, including Health, Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development, as well as Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment.
Representatives from the WHO, UNICEF, FAO, the Pandemic Fund Secretariat, development partners, civil society organisations, and the media will also be present.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| DSTI WELCOMES STATE-OF-THE-ART SCIENCE TRAINING CENTRE IN PRETORIA |
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| The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, has welcomed the opening of a groundbreaking new facility in Pretoria. |
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This facility is dedicated to enhancing South Africa’s scientific capacity and equipping the next generation of researchers with advanced skills in molecular science and laboratory management.
Speaking at the official opening of the Centre for Advanced Training and Innovative Research (CATIR), Deputy Minister Gina described the initiative as a milestone in the country’s journey to build a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation.
CATIR is a partnership among the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI), the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), and Thermo Fisher Scientific, a United States-based company specialising in clinical and life sciences research.
“By investing in this centre, we are investing in the future of South African science, empowering our researchers, nurturing young talent, and fostering an environment where innovation can thrive,” said the Deputy Minister.
Already benefiting from this initiative are students from previously disadvantaged universities such as Sefako Makgatho, Venda, and Limpopo.
“This launch is especially significant, as it aligns with our Decadal Plan 2022–2032, which aims to build a transformed, inclusive and coherent National System of Innovation that responds to the needs of society and the economy,” Deputy Minister Gina said.
The CATIR will serve as a dedicated hub to provide practical, hands-on training in advanced molecular techniques and laboratory management, bridging the gap between academic study and real-world application.
Once fully operational, the facility will have the capacity to train up to 160 students annually.
The first cohort of 20 students is expected to complete training before the end of 2025.
The Deputy Minister highlighted the role of the SAMRC as a trusted project management partner, citing its proven track record in implementing capacity-building programmes that have benefited young scientists from historically under-resourced universities, including Zululand, Limpopo, Venda and Walter Sisulu.
She welcomed Thermo Fisher as a partner in this endeavour, saying their expertise and resources would undoubtedly enhance the capabilities of CATIR and open new avenues for scientific discovery, as well as the future of South Africa’s young scientist community.
President and CEO of SAMRC, Professor Ntobeko Ntusi, highlighted the vital need to enhance South Africa’s scientific skill set.
Ntusi said the development of the CATIR reflected the SAMRC’s belief in the value of investing in the infrastructure and expertise that will help our country address local gaps in critical areas of science.
“The COVID-19 pandemic taught us that we needed to do more to build skills in clinical and molecular testing to improve the resilience of our health system against the diseases of today and tomorrow. The opening of this important new educational facility is a landmark moment in our journey to achieving this important goal.”
Urmi Prasad Richardson, President of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa at Thermo Fisher Scientific, stressed the importance of public-private collaboration in strengthening health systems.
Richardson stated that the opening of the CATIR demonstrates the importance of public-private partnerships in helping to build a more resilient health system in South Africa and underpins their mission to enable customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer.
“Alongside the SAMRC, we are proud to be investing our time, resources and knowledge into this important new facility to meet our shared goal of building locally relevant capabilities and expertise amongst the next generation of South Africa’s scientists,” she added.
The establishment of CATIR underscores the importance of partnership in building the skills and resilience required to address the health challenges of today and tomorrow.
Deputy Minister Gina called on all stakeholders to continue working together across sectors and disciplines to build a brighter, healthier, and more prosperous future for all.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| UK TO LEND SOUTH AFRICA A HELPING HAND TO FIX INFRASTRUCTURE |
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| United Kingdom (UK) Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced an infrastructure partnership with the South African government to boost investment in Africa’s biggest economy. |
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“Infrastructure investment in both of our countries is absolutely key to driving productivity, economic growth and, importantly, job creation,” Reeves said.
The pact, announced in the South African port city of Durban on the sidelines of a Group of 20 (G20) meeting, is designed to speed up the delivery of major infrastructure projects in the nation as it scrambles to clear a backlog that’s hindering economic growth.
South Africa’s economy has grown at less than 1% a year on average for more than a decade. |
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Under the partnership, Reeves said, the UK will offer South Africa technical expertise to get a pipeline of projects ready for investment. She cited a similar programme with Peru as a model for the collaboration.
“British expertise will be brought in to unblock these barriers on building, speeding up a pipeline of projects which British firms are well-placed to win tenders for,” the UK Treasury said in a statement on Thursday, 17 July 2025.
“This will help growth and development in South Africa and also help Britain get a better return on its investments in the country.”
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has estimated that the nation needs R4.8 trillion in public and private infrastructure investment by 2030 to meet its goals.
The country’s Treasury has allocated R1 trillion to public infrastructure over the next three years.
South Africa’s public infrastructure deficit ranges from inadequate water treatment and supply facilities to a need for investment in power transmission lines and the rehabilitation of rundown city centres in major metropolitan areas such as Durban and Johannesburg.
Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, has stated that his department seeks to boost investment in cities through more private investment.
He has bemoaned the fact that many municipalities return infrastructure allocations to the Treasury because they lack the expertise to implement projects.
“By injecting technical expertise and delivery support into stalled projects” through the partnership, the department aims to use neglected buildings and vacant state land to boost economic growth and create jobs, Minister Macpherson said in the statement.
At US$7.7 billion in two-way trade, the UK is South Africa’s seventh-biggest trading partner and one of its largest investors.
It is also part of the Just Energy Transition Partnership between South Africa and some of the world’s richest nations. Under that agreement, US$8.3 billion in climate finance could flow to South Africa.
– Source: businesstech.co.za |
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| GLOBAL EXPERTS TO GATHER IN CAPE TOWN FOR 2025 BIODIVERSITY BIOBANKING CONFERENCE |
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| The 2025 Joint Biobanking Conference will take place from 29 September to 3 October 2025 at the Old Mutual Conference and Exhibition Centre, located within the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town. |
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Co-hosted by the Global Genome Biodiversity Network (GGBN), the International Society for Biological and Environmental Repositories (ISBER), and Medical Biorepositories of South Africa (MBirSA), the conference will bring together scientists, researchers, and conservation experts from around the world to explore advances in biobanking, with a special emphasis on biodiversity.
Under the theme Where Worlds Align: Biodiversity and Human Biobanks. Same, but Different, the event aims to spotlight the growing importance of biodiversity biobanks. In this context, biobanking refers to the careful collection, storage, and management of biological materials from plants, animals, and microorganisms, along with their genetic and ecological data. These biodiversity biobanks play a vital role in conservation efforts by preserving genetic diversity, supporting endangered species recovery, and enabling long-term environmental research. |
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Exploring innovations in biodiversity biobanking
The conference will focus on the latest developments in sample collection, preservation techniques, and data management specific to biodiversity. Participants will discuss how to maintain the integrity of sensitive specimens over long periods, ensure proper documentation, and make data accessible for global research collaborations.
Emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, will also be explored for their potential to analyse complex biodiversity data and support predictive models that inform conservation strategies. Key discussions will address standards for accreditation, quality assurance, and ethical considerations in managing biodiversity resources responsibly.
Global collaboration and African leadership
Cape Town, situated in one of the world’s richest biodiversity hotspots, provides an ideal backdrop for this global gathering. The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, where the conference will be held, symbolises the very ecosystems biodiversity biobanks aim to protect.
The 2025 Joint Biobanking Conference promises to be a pivotal moment for the global biodiversity community. As scientists and conservationists gather in Cape Town, they will shape the future of biodiversity biobanking and strengthen international collaboration to safeguard the planet’s natural heritage for generations to come.
– Source: thenewspaper.co.za |
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| BALULE’S BATTLE FOR RHINO SPOTLIGHTED IN AWARD-WINNING SERIES, THE RESERVE |
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| Award-winning docu-series “The Reserve” is shining a spotlight on the remarkable conservation efforts of Balule Private Nature Reserve, where a dedicated team is turning the tide on rhino poaching, one patrol, one birth, and one battle at a time. |
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Thanks to the gripping docu-series The Reserve, the frontline efforts of South Africa’s Balule Private Nature Reserve are finally taking centre stage. Filmed in the heart of the Greater Kruger area by acclaimed Australian filmmaker Paula Grusovin, The Reserve tells the extraordinary story of a conservation team refusing to give up in the face of crisis. With poaching once threatening to wipe out their rhino populations, the turnaround is nothing short of remarkable, and now, it’s being broadcast to audiences around the globe.
“The work we do is often in the background,” says Ian Nowak, General Manager of Balule. “Most people visiting the area on safari don’t even know we exist, let alone the intensive job that is being done to secure the wilderness they’re enjoying.”
That’s exactly what makes The Reserve so powerful. Through Grusovin’s lens, what was once hidden becomes visceral: the tension of patrols, the relief of a safe sighting, and the weight of every decision made under pressure. Known for her compelling environmental storytelling, Grusovin’s credits include Animal Kingdom: A Tale of Six Families, and now The Reserve stands as one of her most impactful works to date.
For Gruvosin, the film earned a rewarding accolade at the World Film Festival in Cannes recently. The docu-series was awarded the Best Web/TV Series.
And for Nowak and his team, the public’s emotional response to the series is deeply validating.
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“It is very rewarding that the viewing public has received our story so well,” he says. “We hope this additional exposure will show more people what the real fight is about and hopefully assist us and our partners in this ongoing battle.”
The battle, of course, is far from over.
“Areas around us are still suffering losses, so the ‘bad guys’ have not gone away,” Nowak says, frankly. “Our efforts remain as intense as ever. We continue to upskill our personnel and embrace technology-based solutions that protect both our people and our rhino.”
It’s this relentless drive that has halted the poaching numbers and seen Balule record a positive birth rate in both black and white rhino populations. Thanks to strategic conservation partnerships, including the recent white rhino introduction by African Parks, the reserve is cautiously optimistic that rhino numbers will return to, if not surpass, their pre-poaching levels.
“We can never rest on our laurels,” Nowak says. “Constant vigilance and dedication are required to keep the situation under control.”
Still, there is reason for hope. For once, the stories of the rangers, the trackers, and the invisible guardians of Balule are no longer confined to whispered fireside conversations. With The Reserve shining an international spotlight, their mission is reaching new hearts and perhaps inspiring new allies.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| EXPLORING NELSON MANDELA'S LEGACY: INSIGHTS FROM THE EIGHT ANNUAL LECTURE IN INDIA |
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| Speakers were at a loss for words on how to describe Nelson Mandela to future generations during the Nelson Mandela Eighth Annual Lecture, held in India, on Friday, 18 July 2025. |
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The lecture was organised by the India International Centre, the South African High Commission and the Working Group on Alternative Strategies. The Nelson Mandela International Day 2025 was celebrated under the theme: It’s Still in Our Hands to Combat Poverty and Inequity.
Sedula Mamabolo, Counsellor at the South African High Commission in New Delhi, said the theme is a call to action that reminds us that Mandela's legacy is not confined to history.
“It is a living challenge to each one of us. Mandela was not only a statesman but also a symbol of ethical resistance. A man who taught us that reconciliation is not weakness but wisdom,” Mamabolo stated.
Suhas Borker, convener of the Working Group on Alternative Strategies, said Mandela was a role model for people in India because he was rooted in his actions, character, and impact. Borker said that Mandela’s humility and service-orientated leadership inspired ethical governance.
“His perseverance inspires us to face adversity with strength. He was committed to racial equality and justice in his leadership role in dismantling institutionalised racism. He prioritised unity over revenge, establishing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to heal the nation's wounds,” Borker said.
Anand Grover, senior advocate at the Supreme Court of India and human rights activist, addressed how Mandela viewed violence and whether it was justifiable ethically by the oppressed people of South Africa.
“In India, we've had a rich history of how violence has been used and treated, whether it is justified, ethical, or otherwise. Mandela, being a pragmatic politician, used nonviolence as a tactic, not a principle. He was always conscious of what would happen after they succeeded, and that is very important because it did not involve loss of life,” Grover said.
Speaking of Mandela’s imprisonment and the things he had to endure, Grover said, “I want to know whether Indian politicians would ever think of doing it. He was asked to clean the old-style toilets. He was asked to clean the bucket of another prisoner. I challenge you: not one politician in India will do it, whichever party, because of our caste system. It's a sad reflection, but that is the greatness of Mandela,” he said.
Cedric Crowley, acting High Commissioner for the South African Embassy in India, said that after the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, we are now moving backwards.
"The promises of the Sustainable Development Goals, which were a promissory note that no one shall be left behind, that governments will make every effort to ensure that poverty is eradicated, at least half, that there will be health care, and that the population and the climate will be taken care of
"We are reversing those advances we made. What we have decided to do is to increase our defence spending to prepare for war instead of fighting the war against poverty and inequality. Mandela, today, would have been very disappointed to live in this period in this time where people are oppressed and robbed of their inalienable right to dignity and development," he added.
Crowley said that Mohandas Gandhi came to South Africa suffering the same consequences of discriminatory laws, and that propelled him to become an activist. He said Gandhi created a political party, and his theories on Satyagraha were developed.
"When he returned to India, our country contributed to your independence because he successfully engaged in liberating India from British colonial oppression. So I think we've contributed to India in some small measure because of that experience of injustice," Crowley said.
Crowley said he could not answer a student on how we ensure that there are more Mandelas in this world and what characteristics should one exhibit, have and possess to become great like him.
"I think if we try to develop theoretical frameworks of understanding Mandela, we will be at a loss because he is too complex. He is too layered as an individual. But there's one thing I think that could explain it, potentially, and that is that Mandela loved deeply," he lamented.
– Source: www.iol.co.za I Zainul Dawood |
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| TWO YOUNG SOUTH AFRICAN APP DEVELOPERS EARN SPOTS ON INTERNATIONAL STAGE |
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| It is an incredible feat to witness young South Africans being so innovative, but then again, they are the ones with the brightest vision for the future. Recently, Ben Anderson and Jason Mayo represented South Africa as young app developers and earned their place on the global stage. |
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Ben, a 13-year-old from St John’s College, and Jason, a student at the University of Pretoria, took part in the Swift Student Challenge. The challenge gives thousands of student developers from around the world the opportunity to showcase their creativity and coding capabilities through app playgrounds and learn real-world skills that they can take into their careers and beyond.
The challenge then narrowed down to 350 students, from whom a pool of 50 winners is chosen. For Ben and Jason, this was their playing field, chosen amongst the world’s best young coders and app developers. Ben ventured to Apple’s headquarters in Cupertino, California, where he got to get hands-on experience from teams working with these subjects daily at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 2025).
Each has won not only a great claim to fame but also exam codes to gain international certification for Swift, a year’s licence to the Swift developer programme, and a pair of AirPods Max.
Tasked with innovating applications which solve real-world problems, both Ben and Jason shone brightly. Their hearts set on improving education, each innovated an app that would make schooling smoother for students and make screen time far more educational.
Ben’s app navigates the school day with scheduling periods, textbook management and school day prep. Jason’s app, Study Guard (formerly Regret Guard), converts screen time for university students into study time by requiring them to answer AI-generated flashcards based on their study notes before accessing their social media feeds.
It is safe to say these young men have very bright futures in the tech space and the power to empower South Africans through their innovative creativity.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICA TOP LEARNERS BRING HOME MATHS MEDALS FOR MZANSI |
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| South Africa’s top maths learners delivered the best performance in over 20 years at the International Mathematical Olympiad in Australia. |
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Five of the six teens representing the country came home with bronze medals, while the sixth earned a well-deserved honourable mention. This marks Mzansi’s best performance in over 20 years at the global competition, and honestly, it’s safe to say the numbers were in our favour.
Meet the medal-winning minds:
- Youkyum Kim (Reddam House Durbanville)
- Moied Baleg (Settlers High)
- Pocoyo Pun (Elkanah House)
- Eli Max Williams (Westerford High)
- Yian Xu (Redhill High)
- Ellen Grant-Smith (Westerford High) with Honourable Mention
Special mention to Yian Xu, officially recognised as Africa’s top female high school mathematician. Her recognition is not just a personal victory, but a national milestone for young women in STEM across Africa.
Their journey did not start in Australia; it began with local maths competitions, gruelling national training camps, and an unwavering commitment to conquering complex problems.
This achievement follows closely on the heels of another standout moment. Earlier this year, Team South Africa also impressed at the Pan African Mathematics Olympiad (PAMO), hosted by the Mathematical Association of Botswana at the University of Botswana.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| A TOAST TO GOOD HEALTH AS SOUTH AFRICAN OLIVE OIL NAMED ONE OF THE WORLD’S HEALTHIEST |
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| De Rustica Olive Estate’s Coratina Extra Virgin Olive Oil ranked in the Top 10 Healthiest Olive Oils in the World at the 2025 Evooleum Awards, another win for South Africa. |
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Their single-cultivar Coratina Extra Virgin Olive Oil just scooped a spot on the Top 10 Healthiest Olive Oils in the World at the 2025 Evooleum Awards in Spain, thanks to an impressive polyphenol count of 576. That’s not just great news for foodies, but for anyone chasing heart health, longevity, and a drizzle of something delicious over their summer salad.
Polyphenols, the mighty plant compounds behind olive oil’s reputation as a health hero, are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The higher the count, the more potent the benefits. De Rustica’s oil doesn’t just taste luxurious; it nourishes on a whole new level.
This is not the estate’s first moment in the Mediterranean sun either. De Rustica was crowned among the world’s best at this year’s Evooleum 2025, clinching second place overall, continuing to pour excellence into every bottle.
Tucked in the foothills of the Swartberg Mountains, the farm’s dedication to quality, sustainability and science-backed health benefits has put South Africa firmly on the global olive oil map.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICAN AND ZIMBABWEAN MUSICIANS AIM FOR GUINNESS WORLD RECORD |
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| Over 1 000 marimba players from South Africa and Zimbabwe are gearing up to make musical history in Cape Town. |
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On Saturday, 2 August 2025, the Grand Arena at GrandWest will come alive as more than 1000 marimba musicians unite in an official attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest marimba ensemble. The current record of 550 players, set in Guatemala, is set to be doubled in this proudly African celebration of sound, culture and community.
The event, themed United in Harmony, is the vision of Kiara Ramklass, founder of Marimba Jam, who has spent over a decade bringing marimba music to schools across the country.
“South African marimbas are tuned in C major. It’s almost impossible to feel sad when you hear them. They create this magical, happy energy. That’s what we’re sharing with the world on 2 August,” says Kiara. |
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The players, ranging from eight years old to 62, will be travelling from all nine provinces of South Africa, as well as from two schools in Zimbabwe. Some groups are driving in from as far as Johannesburg and Durban, all bringing their instruments and their energy to this vibrant stage.
This is not Marimba Jam’s first try at making history. In 2018, they unofficially beat Australia’s record with 241 girls performing on Women’s Day. Now, with a Guinness World Records adjudicator flying in from London, it’s set to be official.
“This event is more than just breaking a record,” says Kiara. “It’s about showing what’s possible when we come together across socio-economic divides—private schools, township schools, rural schools—all on one stage. It’s a loud, joyful message of ubuntu.”
The group will perform a 10-minute medley of Waka Waka and Jerusalema, two proudly African anthems that celebrate unity.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| MINISTER MCKENZIE HAILS JUNIOR SPRINGBOKS’ HISTORIC VICTORY OVER NEW ZEALAND |
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Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Junior Springboks following their historic triumph at the World Rugby U20 Championship in Italy. |
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The young Boks clinched a nail-biting 23-15 victory over arch-rivals New Zealand in Rovigo on Saturday evening, earning South Africa its first U20 world title since 2012. The win sees the team return home unbeaten, with national pride running high.
“Congratulations to the World Champs! Rugby will be dominated by South Africa for decades still," Minister McKenzie said.
The team arrived on home soil on Monday, 21 July 2025, landing at OR Tambo International Airport. South Africans showed up in their numbers to give the young champions a heroes' welcome.
In a reaction statement posted on the Springboks website on Sunday, Junior Springbok head coach Kevin Foote credited the victory to South Africa’s trademark fighting spirit and the players’ unwavering resolve, particularly in defence.
“Defence is all about character, and there were moments when New Zealand were right on our line, but we held firm. From a coach’s perspective, you can’t ask for more than that. It was a real South African defensive effort and gees (spirit) that won it for us today,” Foote said.
Foote, who took the reins at the end of last year, described the squad as a “special group of young rugby players”, whose growth over the months had been “incredibly special”.
Captain Riley Norton praised his team’s composure under pressure and their ability to adapt to the humid Italian conditions.
"The ball was so slippery, and your fundamentals had to be spot on in these conditions, which was tough. There were a few handling errors due to the incredible humidity, and our jerseys were absolutely drenched in sweat, but I think we handled the conditions well. This win is for everyone who supported us back home,” he said.
The Junior Boks’ win in Italy marks a proud moment in South African sport, echoing their 2012 title win over the same opposition at Newlands Stadium in Cape Town.
After landing in Johannesburg, the players will return to their respective provincial unions, carrying with them not only gold medals but the hopes of a nation inspired by their success.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| JUAN GROENEWALD TO REPRESENT SOUTH AFRICA AT WRESTLING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS |
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| Juan Groenewald has been selected to represent South Africa at the Wrestling World Championships in Athens, Greece, scheduled to take place in the beginning of August 2025. |
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Groenewald, a 17-year-old athlete from Pretoria, has been dedicated to wrestling since the age of six, training diligently at the University of Pretoria Wrestling Club. His commitment to the sport has yielded remarkable achievements, including being part of the South African Under-17 wrestling team that competed at the African Championships in Morocco in April 2025. At this event, Groenewald distinguished himself as the only male athlete to win a gold medal, earning the title of African Champion in the 55-60 kg weight class.
Due to his remarkable achievement at the African Championships, he was selected to represent South Africa at the Wrestling World Championships in Athens, Greece, at the beginning of August 2025. We wish Juan all the best in flying our flag.
– Source: DIRCO Submission |
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| SOUTH AFRICAN FLY-FISHING TEAMS REEL IN BRONZE |
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| South Africa’s women’s and youth fly fishing teams have won bronze medals at the World Championships held in the United States of America. |
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This is a sport that is known for a specialised form of angling using lightweight rods and delicate artificial flies to lure in fish. It is a quiet blend of patience and pure passion.
This past week, South Africa proved once again that it is a serious force in the sport.
Both the South African women’s and youth fly fishing teams have proudly brought home bronze medals from their respective world championships in the United States. A massive moment for the country’s growing reputation in the sport.
These results showcase the depth of talent and commitment within the national angling setup. In fact, these bronze medals are South Africa’s second and third international podium finishes of the year, following on from the Commonwealth team’s third-place finish earlier in 2025.
In a sport that does not always get the spotlight, South Africa’s anglers are quietly casting their way into the international spotlight, and they are doing it with skill, heart, and remarkable consistency. |
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This achievement is a testament to the strength of local development and the dedication of athletes and coaches. With such remarkable talent, the only thing that’s flying higher than those fishing lines is the South African flag.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| TUMI RAMOKGOPA SHINES WITH DOUBLE GOLD AT AFRICAN CHAMPS |
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| Tumi Ramokgopa leads the charge, taking two gold medals as Team South Africa dominates at the African U18 and U20 Championships in Abeokuta, Nigeria. |
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Competing for South Africa in the U20 category, Tumi kicked off her campaign by dominating the 100m hurdles final. She flew over the barriers to claim victory in an excellent time of 13.52 seconds, leaving the rest of the field far behind.
But that’s not where it ends; she kept the momentum going in the 400m hurdles, shifting gears mid-race and taking control. Tumi surged ahead in the final stretch to take gold once again, this time stopping the clock at 57.97 seconds. Morocco’s Mariem El Zahidi followed in second place with 1:00.37, while Nigeria’s Chidimma Innocent claimed third in 1:00.46.
Her golden double was one of the standout moments for Team South Africa, who once again proved their strength in continental athletics by retaining their overall title for the third event running. The young South Africans delivered across the board, proudly keeping their winning streak alive. Adding to the medal count was multi-talented Alicia Khunou, who brought home two golds of her own.
Whether it was on the track or in the field, the young athletes gave it their all, and the results spoke volumes. Tumi Ramokgopa, with her fearless form and flair, led the charge and showed she is one to watch for the future.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| DONALD RAMPHADI AT HIS FIRST WIMBLEDON FINAL |
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| Limpopo’s Donald Ramphadi reaches his first-ever Wimbledon final and finds new purpose in his tennis career. |
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When Donald Ramphadi talks about tennis and what it means to him, he does so with quiet conviction. He continues to rewrite the script of South African wheelchair tennis, earning a historic silver medal in his first-ever Wimbledon final. Teaming up with British partner Gregory Slade, Donald reached the quad wheelchair doubles final, only to fall 6-0, 6-2 to the dominant pairing of Niels Vink (Netherlands) and Guy Sasson (Israel).
Despite the loss, Donald remains upbeat and proud of the chemistry he and Gregory built on the court.
“No one believed we could do it,” he admitted, “but once we got on court, something clicked. The support, the connection, all of it all came together.” |
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To make the final, Donald and Slade stunned Ahmet Kaplan and Sam Schroder in a gripping semi-final. The Wimbledon run comes just weeks after Donald and Ahmet claimed silver at the French Open, marking back-to-back Grand Slam final appearances for the South African. Another major career milestone.
This season of success was not always certain. Donald revealed he came close to quitting the sport in 2024 due to personal and financial pressures.
“I had a breakdown last year,” he shared. “I had to choose whether I keep going. But something magical happened. I remembered why I started and who I’m doing this for. Funding is one of the biggest challenges. I’m still paying for myself every day I go to tournaments, and whatever prize money I make, I put it back into my tennis so I can keep going.”
That “something magical” was family.
“I know what it’s like to grow up without parents around. I want to be there for my kids. That’s what’s driving me now.”
It is that drive to show up for those he loves that has given his tennis career a new sense of purpose.
The journey to Wimbledon success also came with a twist of fate. Initially unsure of his partner, Donald reached out to Gregory after his usual teammate opted for a different pairing. What started as a necessity quickly became a partnership built on trust, strategy, and shared determination.
Even as grass is not his preferred surface, Donald embraced the challenge.
“To see myself in a Wimbledon final on grass? That’s just unbelievable,” he said.
Now with two Grand Slam silver medals in the bag this year alone, Donald Ramphadi stands as a symbol of persistence and national pride. His eyes are firmly set on gold, but more importantly, on the journey and the people who fuel it.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICA’S MATT SMITH SKIS AGAINST THE ODDS |
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| South African skier Matt Smith, the Snowbok, shares his road from Cape Town to Oslo. He rewrites the rules to book himself a spot in the 2026 Winter Olympics. |
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Matt Smith did not grow up dreaming of skiing. Like many South African boys, he imagined himself in the green and gold, playing rugby for the Springboks. However, life had other plans. When he relocated from sunny Cape Town to icy Oslo, he faced a problem: what does a sporty South African do when it’s snowy outside?
The answer, for him, was skiing.
“I got into Oslo from Cape Town just as winter was arriving,” he says. “It was cold, dark, and snowy, and I hate the cold! But I had two choices: either lean into it or hide away. So, I leaned into winter.”
That decision became the spark for an extraordinary journey. Through a chance meeting with Allan Corona, a Mexican skier who took up the sport to survive the Nordic winters, Matt saw a window of possibility. If Allan could represent Mexico, why couldn’t he do the same for South Africa?
What followed was a two-year journey to the Olympic stage. Many people might see an Olympic qualification in two years as impossible.
“Two years sounds impossible, but I broke it down,” he explains. “Seven hundred days. Each day, a manageable amount of work.”
Matt committed to the daily grind, showing up, putting in the hours and identifying the leapfrog moments that could accelerate his growth.
“Fast cornering. Balance on skis. Those weren’t just technical skills; they were shortcuts to progress.”
Now qualified for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina, Matt carries the nickname “The Snowbok” with pride.
“I love it,” he says. “It lets me speak about South Africa everywhere I go. I get to explain what the Springboks represent and share our values, our grit, ambition, and heart.”
The journey means more than Olympic qualification.
“It’s about standing proud after chasing a goal I once thought was unimaginable,” he says. “I didn’t give up when I wanted to. Even when I was against myself.”
Matt’s story is already causing a rippling effect. Parents and young athletes from across Europe are reaching out, inspired by his path.
“You can’t be what you can’t see,” he says. “Now they see that representing South Africa is possible, even in snow.”
Beyond medals, Matt hopes to leave a legacy.
“We’re more than our results. We bring character. And if I can open the door for the next generation, then I’ve done something meaningful.”
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| TANEAL MITCHELL IS POWERLIFTING WITH PURPOSE |
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| From a quiet gym in KwaZulu-Natal to setting world records. Taneal Mitchell is determined to prove that strength has no age limit. |
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| “I joined The Natural Way in January 2023 under the guidance of Tarynne Cass, owner and trainer,” says Taneal. |
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A year later, in January 2024, she decided to take a leap of faith and shift her focus to powerlifting and has not looked back since. Her competitive journey began in April 2024, when she entered her first amateur competition, Clash of the Titans. She not only came first in her age and weight category but also set four national records across squats, bench press, and deadlifts. This boosted her qualifying for the AWPC National Championships with a total lift of 287.5 kg.
“Powerlifting has taught me discipline and dedication and has given me a purpose,” Taneal says. “When I started, I never dreamed that I would get this far or that I would be attending the World Powerlifting Championships.”
At the AWPC National Championships in Benoni in June 2025, Taneal raised the bar once again by setting four new national records and four new world records. This includes a world-record squat of 137.5 kg. Her final lifts came in at 137.5 kg (squat), 55 kg (bench press), and 135 kg (deadlift), totalling 327.5 kg. She has now qualified for the AWPC World Championships in Idaho Falls, United States of America, this August.
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“My goal this year is to break my own squat world record and the world record for deadlifts in my age and weight category at Worlds.”
What began as a personal challenge has transformed into a journey of resilience and record-breaking success. Now the world stage awaits.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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