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| GOVERNMENT IS STRENGTHENING THE “FOUNDATIONS OF OUR PUBLIC SERVICE" |
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| As South Africa marks Public Service Month, President Cyril Ramaphosa has assured citizens that government is hard at work to strengthen the public service system and has reiterated the commitment to closing the skills gaps, rooting out corruption and returning the public service to its core principle: Batho Pele. |
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The President addressed the nation through his weekly newsletter on Monday, 15 September 2025.
He noted that while there are challenges, there are “dedicated public servants who work tirelessly in service of our nation”.
“We thank them for the work they do to improve the lives of South Africans. But our public service faces significant challenges. These include skills gaps, outdated systems and processes, inconsistent service delivery and corruption. In many parts of the state, the values of Batho Pele – putting people first – have been eroded.
“That is why we are strengthening the professional foundations of our public service. Through the reforms underway, we are working to attract the right skills, implement rigorous performance management and create career pathways that reward merit and excellence. Through the National School of Government, we are investing in training and development,” President Ramaphosa said. |
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September marks Public Service Month in the country, which focuses on the “essential contribution” that South Africa’s 1.7 million public servants make to deliver services to South Africans.
“It is through public servants that government provides healthcare, education, policing, social services and countless other essential functions that touch every South African's life.
“When our public service operates at its best, it is a powerful instrument for social and economic development. When it falters, it is often our most vulnerable citizens who bear the brunt,” he said.
Close collaboration
President Ramaphosa noted that as government works to build a “professional, accountable and capable public service”, the public service must be brought closer to the people it serves.
“We must challenge the idea that public servants are providers and citizens are mere beneficiaries of goods and services. The National Dialogue, which was launched in August, provides an opportunity to change the relationship between public servants and the public,” he said.
The National Dialogue paves the way for South Africans all over the country to meet to discuss the issues they face and find a path to take the country forward.
The dialogues will culminate in a National Convention to be held next year which will “finalise a social compact that outlines clear actions and responsibilities for all sectors of society”.
“The thousands of public dialogues taking place across the country will also provide an opportunity for communities to address the immediate challenges that they face where they live.
“Through the National Dialogue process, each community is encouraged to work with all relevant stakeholders—ward councillors, municipal officials, civic bodies, community organisations and provincial and national departments—on a common plan to address these challenges.
“By working together in an integrated way, drawing together resources from within and outside the state, these stakeholders can find ways to solve local problems. Public servants have a vital role to play in working towards solutions alongside and in cooperation with communities,” President Ramaphosa noted.
This approach takes a leaf from the District Development Model, which emphasises “bringing government closer to the people and ensuring that local needs inform service delivery priorities”.
“It is about building a public service that listens to citizens, adapts to their needs and continuously improves its services. Such a public service requires the active participation of citizens as partners in development, growth and transformation.
“I call on every South African to hold government accountable, to engage constructively with public institutions and to recognise the vital role that a professional public service plays in building the society we all want.
“Together, we can build a public service that serves with excellence and integrity and works with South Africans to realise the promise of a better life for all,” the President concluded.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| MINISTER LAMOLA UNDERTAKES WORKING VISIT TO LOS ANGELES TO ADVANCE BILATERAL RELATIONS |
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| The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, travelled to Los Angeles, United States of America, on a Working Visit. He was received by the Deputy Director-General for Americas and Europe, Ambassador Maud Dlomo, and South Africa’s Chargé d’Affaires in Los Angeles, Venetia Smit. |
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The United States (US) remains a strategic partner for South Africa, with relations spanning trade, investment, technology transfer, development cooperation and tourism. These engagements are aligned with South Africa’s domestic priorities and the National Development Plan.
During the visit, Minister Lamola will engage with a range of stakeholders in California to strengthen people-to-people relations, explore new opportunities for collaboration, and consolidate existing areas of cooperation between South Africa and the United States.
– Source: DIRCO platforms |
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| SOUTH AFRICA CALLS ON ALL STATES TO TAKE ACTION TO HALT THE GENOCIDE IN GAZA |
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| The Government of the Republic of South Africa takes solemn account of the findings of the United Nations Human Rights Council’s Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel. The Commission has concluded that the State of Israel bears responsibility for the commission of genocide, the failure to prevent genocide, and the failure to punish genocide against the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. |
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The Commission's report concludes that the Israeli authorities and Israeli security forces have committed and are continuing to commit the following four genocidal acts, as defined in the 1948 Genocide Convention:
- Killing members of the group.
- Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group.
- Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part.
- Imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group.
This report stands as a stark confirmation of the very dire situation that compelled South Africa to approach the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in December 2023. The ICJ subsequently issued three successive orders on provisional measures on 26 January, 28 March, and 24 May 2024, aimed at protecting Palestinians in Gaza from irreparable harm. It is with profound disappointment that the Commission's report highlights the regrettable fact that these binding interim orders have not been heeded by Israel.
In the face of this latest report, which provides a comprehensive, forensically detailed account of an ongoing genocide, the need for international action has never been more urgent. South Africa reiterates its call for all States to immediately fulfil their solemn obligations under the Genocide Convention.
As the Commission makes clear, parties to the Convention are obliged to:
(i) ensure that Israel implements all orders for provisional measures issued by the International Court of Justice.
(ii) cooperate to bring to an end all Israeli actions in Gaza that amount to a violation of the Genocide Convention.
(iii) take steps to ensure the prevention of conduct that may amount to an act of genocide under the Genocide Convention, including the transfer of weapons that are used or likely to be used by Israel to commit genocidal acts.
(iv) not recognise as lawful the military operations in Gaza that led to the violations of peremptory norms (jus cogens), including genocide.
(v) conduct investigations and take steps to ensure the punishment of violations of peremptory norms.
To this end, the government of South Africa has submitted three public dossiers of information to the United Nations Security Council, a measure to ensure the UN acts in accordance with Article 94 of its Charter.
It is increasingly clear that Palestinian people are facing a threat of erasure in real time; the entire system of international law is on the line. At stake is not merely the fate of the Palestinian people, but the very principle of justice over impunity.
The reports are attached annexures available on www.dirco.gov.za:
Dossier 1, dated 29 May 2025, detailing a public dossier of evidence relating to the State of Israel’s intent and incitement to commit genocide against the Palestinians in Gaza.
Dossier 2, dated 27 February 2025, containing available evidence on the State of Israel’s acts of genocide against the Palestinians in Gaza, as of 4 February 2025.
Dossier 3, dated 28 August 2025, detailing Israel’s calculated acts of starvation, weaponisation of aid and further expressions of genocidal intent against the Palestinians in Gaza.
– Source: www.dirco.gov.za |
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| JOINT STATEMENT ON THE GLOBAL SUMUD FLOTILLA BOUND FOR GAZA |
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| The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Ireland, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Pakistan, Qatar, Oman, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, and Türkiye express their concern about the security of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a civil society initiative in which citizens of their countries are participating. |
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The Global Sumud Flotilla has informed about its objective of delivering humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and raising awareness about the urgent humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people and the need to stop the war in Gaza. Both objectives, peace and humanitarian aid delivery, together with the respect of international law, including humanitarian law, are shared by our governments.
We therefore call on everyone to refrain from any unlawful or violent act against the Flotilla and to respect international law and international humanitarian law.
We recall that any violation of international law and human rights of the participants in the Flotilla, including attacks against the vessels in international waters or illegal detention, will lead to accountability.
– Source: www.dirco.gov.za |
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| MINISTER LAMOLA DELIVERS KEYNOTE ADDRESS AT LIMPOPO BLACK EXCELLENCE AWARDS |
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| On Friday, 12 September 2025, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, delivered the keynote address at a Black Management Forum (BMF) event in Thohoyandou, Limpopo Province, which was held under the theme Harnessing Black Excellence to Drive Economic Innovation and Geopolitical Influence. |
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This event celebrated outstanding achievements and contributions of black leaders and innovators.
– Source: www.dirco.gov.za |
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| ZIMBABWE, SOUTH AFRICA REAFFIRM TIES WITH ONE-STOP BORDER POST PLAN |
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| Zimbabwe and South Africa are edging closer to operationalising the long-awaited one-stop border post (OSBP) project at Beitbridge, a key milestone set to boost regional integration and trade between the two neighbouring countries. |
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One-stop centres and OSBP are crucial components in supporting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), helping to streamline cross-border trade by consolidating services at a single location.
This development emerged yesterday during a tour of the Beitbridge Border Post by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Dr Amon Murwira, and his South African counterpart, Minister of International Relations, Ronald Lamola. The two ministers later held a closed-door bilateral meeting.
The discussions centred on strengthening co-operation in trade, investment and cross-border infrastructure. Both ministers highlighted that efficient border management is central to unlocking economic opportunities under the AfCFTA.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, Prof. Murwira said Zimbabwe and South Africa, which already enjoy strong historical and cultural ties, must now translate that relationship into tangible benefits for their citizens.
“We held fruitful deliberations during which we reaffirmed the excellent relations between Zimbabwe and the Republic of South Africa. Our main theme for today has been regional integration.
“To integrate, we need infrastructure and the Beitbridge Border Post is one such critical facility,” he said.
Prof. Murwira reaffirmed that South Africa remains Zimbabwe’s largest trading partner and stressed the importance of removing barriers to trade to spur growth.
“We are reaffirming the excellent relations that exist between Zimbabwe and South Africa, and we want these excellent relations to be reflected in the day-to-day lives of our people, and mainly through economic activity and social well-being,” he said.
Minister Lamola congratulated Zimbabwe on the modernisation of the Beitbridge Border Post, describing it as a model project for the SADC region.
“Our engagement today was informed by a flagship Southern African Development Community (SADC) project—the one-stop border post. This will not only boost intra-SADC trade but also deepen political, cultural and social ties,” he said.
Minister Lamola confirmed South Africa’s commitment to fast-tracking its own border modernisation to align with Zimbabwe’s pace and ensure full interoperability.
The meeting also came as South Africa reaffirmed its support for Zimbabwe’s candidature for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for 2027–2028.
The Beitbridge Border Post—the busiest land port in Southern Africa—has undergone a US$300 million modernisation project through the Zimborders Consortium under a public-private partnership. Zimborders Consortium built and operates and will eventually transfer the modernised facility back to the government after 17 years, recouping its investment through border user fees.
The facility now boasts dedicated terminals for buses, trucks and pedestrians, state-of-the-art ICT systems, and streamlined traffic management.
Authorities report that 60% of commercial cargo is now cleared in less than three hours. With nearly seven million travellers and thousands of vehicles using the border annually, the upgrade has dramatically improved efficiency and positioned Beitbridge as a regional trade hub.
An estimated seven million travellers use the border annually, while nearly 1,200 commercial trucks, 200 buses, and 2,100 light vehicles pass through the port daily.
– Source: www.heraldonline.co.zw |
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| SOUTH AFRICA DEEPLY CONCERNED ABOUT CIVILIAN ATTACKS IN UKRAINE |
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| Government has expressed deep concern over indiscriminate attacks on civilians following the strike in the village of Yarova in Eastern Ukraine, which reportedly killed more than 20 people, many of them elderly civilians waiting to collect pension payments. |
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This follows a Russian air strike on a Ukrainian village predominantly inhabited by pensioners on Tuesday, 9 September 2025.
Amid rising and intensifying armed conflicts, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation said South Africa not only calls for a de-escalation and ceasefire but also urges all parties involved to respect international law, including obligations under international humanitarian law.
“We continue to see attacks against civilians and civilian installations in breach of the principle of distinction,” the department said.
According to the department, international humanitarian law requires all parties to armed conflict to distinguish at all times between combatants and civilians, as well as between military and civilian targets. |
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“The deliberate targeting of non-combatants is a blatant violation of international humanitarian law and human rights laws and principles. Such breaches of international law escalate current global tensions,” the department added.
In the meantime, the department reaffirmed South Africa’s support for the efforts of the United Nations (UN) and other international organisations in working towards the diplomatic resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict through dialogue and peaceful negotiation.
According to UN News, the World Health Organisation’s latest Health Needs Assessment conducted in Ukraine in April found that seven in ten people reported mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and severe stress over the past year, directly linked to attacks on civilian infrastructure.
“South Africa remains committed to playing a constructive role in advancing peace and stability globally and calls on all nations to work together to prevent further suffering and bloodshed, prioritising the protection of civilians.”
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| DEPUTY MINISTER GINA HEADS TO JAPAN TO ADVANCE RELATIONS ON HYDROGEN, SUSTAINABLE FUELS |
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| The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, will embark on an official visit to Japan from 15 to 18 September 2025, to strengthen cooperation in hydrogen energy and sustainable fuels. |
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The Deputy Minister will participate in the Hydrogen Energy Ministerial Meeting and the Ministerial Meeting on Sustainable Fuels on Monday, 15 September 2025, to place South Africa at the centre of high-level global discussions on implementing and collaborating on hydrogen policies.
According to the department, Deputy Minister Gina will engage with Japanese officials on international collaboration, demand stimulation, and supply chain development between South Africa and Japan.
The Ministerial Meetings will be held in collaboration with Expo 2025 Osaka, an event that brings together people and innovations from around the world to address global issues and showcase Japan's technological capabilities in achieving a hydrogen-powered society. |
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“The engagements will serve as a bedrock to create institutional foundations for market-based hydrogen trading and price discovery, an essential step towards legitimising hydrogen as a tradable energy asset,” the statement read.
Japan is committed to ensuring that its supply chains are secure, transparent and interconnected on a global scale.
The department said Japan also aims to establish global markets that will substantiate its investments in hydrogen production, transportation and utilisation technologies.
In advancing the sustainable fuels agenda, Japan's primary objective is to ensure the widespread implementation of sustainable fuels, particularly in industries that are challenging to regulate, such as aviation and shipping.
“The country has expressed commitment to expediting the global adoption of biofuels, e-fuels, and e-methane as part of its Initiative for Sustainable Fuels and Mobility with Brazil. In addition, Japan aims to diversify the global energy supply ahead of COP30.”
From 16 to 18 September 2025, the Deputy Minister will engage in discussions with representatives from the Japanese Government, academic institutions, and commercial entities, including Toyota and Kawasaki Heavy Industries, as well as the universities of Kyoto and Osaka.
The discussions will focus on science, technology and innovation-related matters, such as nanotechnology, carbon recycling, astronomy and space science technologies.
Green industrialisation
Speaking ahead of the mission, Deputy Minister Gina said the Ministerial Meeting on Sustainable Fuels holds considerable significance for South Africa, as the government aims to expedite the diversification of its energy portfolio to foster sustainable and inclusive growth.
“For example, to reduce the carbon intensity within the aviation sector, South Africa aims to learn from Japan's advancements in sustainable aviation fuel. Accordingly, strengthening cooperation with Japanese research institutions and enterprises specialising in sustainable aviation fuels and renewable energy sources will be essential,” said the Deputy Minister.
Deputy Minister Gina stated that the insights gained from the mission will be instrumental in developing a robust infrastructure for renewable hydrogen and sustainable fuels in South Africa, with the potential to transform key sectors of the economy.
These include the transformation of the energy and mining sector to decarbonisation operations and power generation.
Advancing the transportation and aviation sectors through the promotion of environmentally sustainable fuels and hydrogen-powered mobility will accelerate South Africa's transition to cleaner fuels, thereby reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change.
In addition, South Africa's manufacturing sector supports the expansion of new industries in hydrogen storage, fuel cells and electrolysers, while the agricultural sector supports the production of low-carbon fertilisers and strengthens the food supply chain.
"These initiatives have the potential to promote green industrialisation, create jobs in energy-intensive industries, and enhance the resilience of transport and logistics networks, thereby supporting South Africa's broader social and economic development objectives,” said Deputy Minister Gina.
The department said Japan remains a strategic ally for South Africa in scientific research, development and innovation since formalising a scientific and technological cooperation agreement in 2003.
“In future, the country aims to leverage Japan's expertise in vehicle manufacturing, electronics and the commercialisation of research to enhance collaborative initiatives in industrial development and technological innovation,” said the department.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| DIRCO, UNISA HOST G20 TOWN HALL MEETING IN CAPE TOWN |
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| The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), in collaboration with the University of South Africa (UNISA), hosted a Group of 20 (G20) Town Hall Outreach on Tuesday, 16 September 2025, in Cape Town. |
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The event was held under the theme Financial Inclusion for Economic Development: Creating Access to Benefit Grassroots Economies.
This G20 Town Hall Outreach aims to engage South Africans on the significance, objectives, and benefits of South Africa’s G20 Presidency, as well as to solicit input from non-state actors and civil society. |
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According to the department, South Africa’s G20 Presidency stands as a vital moment to shape global dialogues and promote economic development.
“It represents a strategic opportunity to advance change in global governance while working towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals,” the advisory read.
Meanwhile, the engagement will also touch on financial inclusion, which according to the department, is increasingly recognised as a critical element of the global economic system, particularly in relation to poverty eradication, equitable growth and social stability.
“In a globalised economy, financial inclusion has the potential to reduce inequality, foster resilience and promote sustainable development.”
The inaugural DIRCO-UNISA G20 Town Hall Outreach was held on 14 May 2025 in Pretoria, Gauteng.
The second edition followed on 8 August 2025 in Mbombela, Mpumalanga.
– Source: www.dirco.gov.za |
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| PROMISING TRADE LEADS FOR LOCAL COMPANIES AT INTRA-AFRICA TRADE FAIR |
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| South African companies that were part of the 30-member business delegation at the recently concluded Intra-Africa Trade Fair (IATF) in Algeria say they are eager to do business in Algeria and across the continent. |
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This was after local companies generated several promising trade leads over the course of the trade fair.
The IATF 2025 was held in Algiers, Algeria, from 4 to 10 September 2025, serving as a major platform for showcasing African products and fostering continental trade, investment, and partnerships within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). |
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Dr Khulile Mtsetfwa, Chief Executive Officer of Swatek Defence and Aerospace, announced that the company has signed three memoranda of understanding aimed at establishing distribution lines in Algeria.
“The plan is to make sure that we build relations and maintain the line of communication with country agents and distributors to penetrate the Algerian market and the rest of the continent. Our mission throughout the week was to make sure that we expose our products to the countries which were represented at the fair,” said Mtsetfwa.
The company signed a contract worth R20 million that will see them supplying protective gear to a local company.
Rashmee Ramdeen, Director of Zilon Bulk Bags, said the company’s polypropylene bulk bags were well received by visitors and distributors, generating numerous new business leads.
“There is a potential order that is worth R6 million that is being negotiated with a local company. There was a huge demand for our products because there are few manufacturers who are producing them in Algeria.
“The country is currently importing from Europe, and the price is not competitive. So, this is our opportunity to make inroads in the North African market,” added Ramdeen.
Zanele Sanni, Chief Director of Export and Marketing at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, reaffirmed that the IATF is a powerful tool for trade and investment promotion, helping to drive the implementation of the AfCFTA.
“Participating in this landmark event assisted in strengthening intra-African trade under the AfCFTA and accelerating collaboration in critical sectors such as energy, automotives, mining and technology,” said Sanni.
The South African Pavilion attracted more than 3 000 visitors and 267 buyers, generated approximately 300 leads with an estimated post-six-month sales value of R483 million, and hosted over 120 business-to-business meetings.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| TOURISM ON CONFIRMED HOST CITIES FOR MEETINGS AFRICA AND AFRICA’S TRAVEL INDABA |
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| Following a rigorous and competitive procurement process led by South African Tourism, Johannesburg and Durban have officially been confirmed as the host cities for Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba, respectively, for the next five years commencing in 2026. |
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| The process saw several cities and provinces across the country submit compelling bids to host the flagship events. After careful evaluation, Johannesburg and Durban were selected for their compelling bid commitments, exceptional track records, world-class infrastructure, and alignment with South Africa’s strategic tourism objectives. |
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In congratulating the successful host cities, the Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, stated:
“I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to both Johannesburg and Durban on being confirmed as the host cities for Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba in 2026. These events are not just about tourism; they are about economic opportunity, job creation, and positioning Africa as a globally competitive destination.”
Meetings Africa 2026, the 20th edition of the show, will take place from 23 to 25 February at Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg. Africa’s Travel Indaba will take place from 11 to 14 May at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC).
The Chairperson of the Johannesburg Tourism Company, Nandipha Zonela, said luring Africa’s leading business trade show our way for a further five years marks an important milestone—right at the doorstep of the Urban20 (U20) Summit and on the eve of staging the first-ever Group of 20 (G20) Summit on the African continent.
“This demonstrates Johannesburg’s competitiveness as a global city—a city that has differentiated itself as an all-year-round travel market leader in South Africa, recording 4.29 million arrivals and achieving R69 billion in total tourism spend in 2024. Joburg is honoured to remain the home and heartbeat of Meetings Africa—where Africa connects,” adds Zonela.
“As the province of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), we are thrilled to be entrusted with hosting Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) for the next five years. This is a great opportunity for KZN to host the global tourism fraternity on our shores, and the impact of Africa’s Travel Indaba goes beyond the three days of business for KZN. This is an opportunity for KZN to show the world and the tourism trade that KZN is indeed an exceptional destination to do business in, to come for both leisure and business travel. ATI also presents immeasurable opportunities for our emerging tourism entrepreneurs who can strike business deals that can propel their business to even greater heights. Having KZN as the backdrop of one of the biggest tourism trade shows also positions us as a possible film destination for blockbuster movies that can also be shot in KZN,” said Rev. Musa Zondi, KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs.
Both Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba are Africa’s leading trade platforms for business and leisure tourism, respectively, bringing together buyers, exhibitors, media, and tourism stakeholders from across the continent and the world. Both events serve as critical economic levers, generating leads, promoting investment, and boosting intra-African trade and connectivity.
“We look forward to continuing our strong partnerships with both cities and the private sector for the next five years. We are committed to supporting the execution of innovative, fit-for-purpose trade shows that deliver real value for all delegates, whether they are buyers, exhibitors, or stakeholders across the tourism value chain. We’ll achieve these, together with the Tourism Business Council South Africa and the various tourism stakeholders,” concludes Minister de Lille.
– Source: www.gov.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICA’S ALAN HATHERLY DESTROYS THE COMPETITION TO DEFEND 2025 MTB WORLD CHAMPS TITLE |
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| South Africa’s Alan Hatherly has done it again! On the final day of the 2025 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships in Valais, Switzerland (1–14 September 2025), Hatherly powered his way to victory, successfully defending his Men’s Elite Cross-Country Olympic (XCO) World Champion title—and keeping the coveted rainbow jersey on his shoulders. |
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“I think I just had one of those days. It would be pretty hard for me to repeat a performance like that.”
How the racing unfolded
France’s Victor Koretzky and Christopher Blevins from the United States of Ameria—gold and silver medallists, respectively, in Tuesday’s cross-country short track (XCC)—went straight to the front, along with Hatherly, Chile’s Martín Vidaurre, Swiss riders Fabio Püntener, Luca Schätti and Mathias Flückiger, and the Italians Luca Braidot and Mathis Azzaro.
Mathieu Van der Poel—aiming to add a title of UCI World Champion for mountain bike to those of road, cyclo-cross and gravel—started in 33rd position and pushed into seventh by the start of the second of nine laps.
On lap three, 2024 UCI World Champion Hatherly passed Koretzky, who led a group of seven: Braidot and his fellow Italian Simone Avondetto rubbed shoulders with Schätti and Flückiger, with Van der Poel and Blevins in contact.
Van der Poel soon drifted back behind Denmark’s Simon Andreassen, and Blevins dropped out of the top ten. Flückiger had been circulating on his own in second before being drawn back into a group of five with Schätti, Koretzky and the two Italians—a minute behind the metronomic South African, who clocked sub-10 minutes for each of the first six laps.
With two laps remaining, Andreassen—Junior XCO UCI World Champion in 2014 and 2015 and UCI Mountain Bike Marathon (XCM) World Champion in 2024—joined the chasers to form a group of six, but Hatherly was already 90 seconds clear.
Flückiger forced the pace, with 2022 Under 23 UCI World Champion Avondetto, then European Champion Schätti clawing back to him. Avondetto attacked to claim silver, as Koretzky caught the Swiss duo and timed his sprint perfectly to take bronze. Hatherly hit his season’s peak form brilliantly to retain the title in 1:30:30, with Avondetto +0:48 and Koretzky +0:51.
Four Swiss riders finished in the top 10 before 10-time UCI World Champion Nino Schurter rolled in to a champagne reception, then presented the winners’ medals.
“All the stars aligned.”
A delighted Hatherly reacted: “I think I just had one of those days. It would be pretty hard for me to repeat a performance like that. All the stars aligned. It’s been really tough to combine both [road and mountain bike], but defending this [UCI] world title was a big goal from the beginning of the season. It was really difficult to balance the two, but the last month I just went full mountain bike focus.
– Source: www.bicycling.co.za |
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| CAITLIN ROOSKRANTZ SOARS TO PERSONAL BEST IN PARIS |
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| After a heartbreaking injury ended her 2024 Olympic campaign, the two-time Olympian and UJ graduate, Caitlin Rooskrantz, returns stronger with her best-ever international score. |
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Team South Africa gymnast Caitlin Rooskrantz delivered an impressive performance at the Paris FIG World Challenge Cup this past weekend, finishing fourth in the uneven bars final and recording her best-ever international score.
For Rooskrantz, this moment marked more than just a competition result. A year ago, her Olympic campaign in Paris 2024 was unexpectedly cut short by a floor injury, forcing her to step back. Her showing in France this weekend is proof of her resilience and determination to return stronger.
Rooskrantz competed alongside teammates Buhle Nhleko, Zelmé Daries, and Naveen Daries, with the South African squad gaining valuable international experience. In the vault, Zelmé Daries placed 12th, and Nhleko finished 16th.
At just 23 years old, she has represented her country at two consecutive Olympics. Alongside her athletic career, she recently graduated with a marketing degree from the University of Johannesburg. This is an achievement that speaks to her ability to balance life inside and outside the gym.
While narrowly missing out on a medal in Paris, Rooskrantz sees the result as a personal victory. A result that’s more than standing on podiums but about progress and proving that setbacks can be overcome.
Her story has already inspired countless young South Africans, and this latest milestone is a reminder that she remains one of the nation’s most influential athletes. With renewed confidence and a growing international presence, Rooskrantz is focused on the future and continues to show what it means to push boundaries.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SPRINGBOKS BEAT ALL BLACKS WITH RECORD SCORE IN |
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| The Boks are now back in the race for this year's Rugby Championship title after scoring a famous win in Wellington. |
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The Springboks scored six tries—five of them in the second half—to smash the All Blacks 43-10 in a sensational performance in a Rugby Championship Test in Wellington on Saturday.
The win comes a week after the Boks went down 24-17 in Auckland.
Rassie Erasmus’ team dominated from start to finish and scored six sensational tries for a record margin victory of 33 points. The Boks won the second half 36-0, keeping the All Blacks scoreless. It was their biggest ever defeat.
The South Africans’ chances of retaining the Rugby Championship trophy, after winning it last year, remain intact. All four teams in the competition have now won two and lost two games, with two to go.
The Bok team showed several changes from the side that lost at Eden Park and were then further disrupted with early injuries to Lood de Jager, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, and later on, Aphelele Fassi. |
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While the All Blacks scored first through debutant Leroy Carter, the Boks hit back with a first-half try by Cheslin Kolbe, who intercepted an All Blacks pass to run in from a distance and then in the second half the world champions scored further tries by Kolbe, Damian Willemse, Kwagga Smith, RG Snyman and Andre Esterhuizen. Manie Libbok kicked six out of seven shots at goal.
The Boks enjoyed superiority in the territory department and made the most of the chances they created, especially in the second half.
Every Bok player delivered a standout performance, but Willemse was especially good at inside centre, and Ethan Hooker was brilliant out wide, while Libbok, Esterhuizen and Snyman enjoyed great outings from off the bench.
Pieter-Steph du Toit and Siya Kolisi were also outstanding in the forwards, with Jasper Wiese and Ruan Nortje not far behind.
– Source: www.citizen.co.za |
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| “A GIANT HAS AWOKEN FOR WOMEN IN SOUTH AFRICAN RUGBY” - SPRINGBOK COACH SWYS DE BRUYN |
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| Springbok Women coach Swys de Bruin believes “a giant has awoken for women in South African rugby” after his team’s inspired performances at the Rugby World Cup in England. |
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Although the Boks ultimately went down to the mighty Black Ferns in their quarterfinal on Saturday at Sandy Park in Exeter, De Bruin’s charges were monumental during the competition.
Glass ceilings were shattered over the last month, including winning a first-ever match at the Rugby World Cup against Brazil (66-6) before following it up with a victory over higher-ranked Italy (29-24) to book a maiden place in the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals. |
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And if that wasn’t enough, they surprised friend and foe with a Herculean first-half display against the four-times champions by holding the New Zealanders to 10-10 at halftime.
Although the Black Ferns unleashed a two-try blitz after the halftime break, the Boks showed their grit and determination to come back again and score three tries in the match—the only team to do so against the Kiwis in the competition.
"I'm so proud. Look at our girls; look at the passion. They made a difference for millions of girls in South Africa. They are role models. There are so many trials and tribulations. I'm so thankful,” De Bruin said.
“Ireland got nought against them [New Zealand]; other teams couldn't score tries. Every time you raise the bar they can go higher. It's amazing what they can do.
“I said in 2017 we were not good enough. In 2022 we couldn't win a game. Now we get a chance in a quarter-final and score three tries. I think a giant has awoken for women in South African rugby."
De Bruin’s innovative coaching drills on the training ground—much like his Bok men’s counterpart Rassie Erasmus—certainly paid off as they caught the Black Ferns off guard, particularly in the first half, but the opposition’s experience ultimately came to the fore in the second.
“A lot of our plans worked in the first half. They didn't expect the 15-man maul or the set-ups next to the scrum,” he said.
“But then, in the second half—my coaches were still on the way up—they [New Zealand] scored two tries, so we will need to see what happened there. Apparently, it was a kick-off-receive, and we just lost it.
"Our girls are not used to playing at this pace and pressure. We ran a bit out of steam, but we kept fighting, fighting, fighting.”
De Bruyn has called for the enlargement of tournaments such as the Pacific Four, which features New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the United States of America, for his team to get greater exposure, as they showed at this World Cup they are worthy of fighting it out with the "big dogs".
“We need more competitive games because I honestly believe if we get that, we'll be much more of a threat. If we can have that with our high-performance system, that'll be the super ingredient for growth,” he said.
“There's a couple of teams knocking on the door; we’re knocking the hardest at the moment.
The fact that we could push them [New Zealand] to a 10-all draw at half-time, the minnows are good enough now. Opportunity is everything. We need games; we need tough games, more of them.”
– Source: www.iol.co.za
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| UWC STUDENT PLACES FOURTH AT GOJU KAI WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS |
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| Chris Young, a first-year physiotherapy student at the University of the Western Cape (UWC), placed fourth in the under-21 kumite at the Goju Kai World Championships in Chiba, Japan. |
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The achievement is a rare feat for the 19-year-old, who has trained in the discipline since the age of six.
Goju Kai is a form of Okinawan karate, originating on the Japanese island of Okinawa and shaped by both Chinese martial arts and local self-defence traditions.
Its name reflects the style’s philosophy of balance: go (hard) emphasises powerful, straight strikes and closed-hand techniques, while ju (soft) highlights open-hand movements and flowing, circular deflections.
Young explained it as “hard and soft”, noting that it blends power with flow and teaches practitioners to rely on the body rather than weapons. This approach shaped his kata and sparring on the world stage.
Organisers estimate that Japan will not host the Goju Kai World Championships again for another 46 to 56 years, making Young’s participation a significant milestone.
Young holds a second-degree black belt and has practised Goju Kai for 14 years.
He also shares a deep connection to UWC. “My mum works here and ever since I can remember, I’ve been coming with her to campus and running around in the offices. UWC is like my second home,” he said.
Reflecting on his performance, Young said he is proud of the result and plans to focus on his studies while embracing a more traditional, spiritual approach to training. He also hopes to mentor younger practitioners who look up to him.
– Source: www.capetownetc.com |
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| TWO SOUTH AFRICANS TAKE ON THE 2025 IRONMAN WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP |
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| South African triathletes Jamie Riddle and Bradley Weiss are gearing up to take on the 2025 IRONMAN World Championship this weekend in Nice, France. A city famous for its Mediterranean coastline, Alpine terrain, and the vibrant energy of the Côte d’Azur. With every kilometre promising breathtaking views. The championship combines the beauty of the French Riviera with the raw challenge of one of triathlon’s most gruelling events. |
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For Riddle, this marks his IRONMAN World Championship debut after earning his spot earlier this year at the African Champs in front of a roaring home crowd. He has spent the past months sharpening his skills alongside Sam Laidlow, the last athlete to claim the World Championship in Nice and is ready to make an impression in the waters of the Mediterranean.
Weiss, meanwhile, returns to Nice following a strong seventh-place finish in 2023. After an intensive three-week altitude training camp in Livigno, Italy, he’s confident about tackling the course.
“Being one of my final chances to race on this stage, it would be the cherry on top of a wonderful career to get onto the podium at this event,” he says.
The challenge begins with a swim off the Plage des Ponchettes, where competitors dive into the azure Mediterranean waters. From there, the 180.2km bike course includes climbs and descents, totalling 2,427m of elevation gain. Finally, the athletes hit the flat, four-lap run along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, covering the marathon distance with barely a hint of uphill struggle.
Riddle and Weiss have a tough weekend ahead of them, but nothing that resilience, skill, and the joy of pushing their bodies to the limit can’t overcome.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICA’S STREETBALL KINGS AND QUEENS BOOK TICKETS TO DUBAI |
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| The courts at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) were buzzing with an electric crowd, and history was made as the first-ever Red Bull Half Court National Finals took place in Johannesburg. |
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After weeks of qualifiers in multiple cities across South Africa, Cape Town, Durban, and Pretoria, South Africa’s best streetball teams finally clashed for national glory and the chance to represent the country at the world finals in Dubai this November.
By the end of a thrilling day, it was the MBB Blue Soldiers, made up of Nino Dim, Lebesa Selepe, Neo Mothiba, and Rabbi Belolo-Lou, who claimed the men’s crown. On the women’s side, the Hoop Hustlers, namely Lauren Fredericks, Monicah Tlou, Khanyi Maphisa, and Liyabona Sahnnon Nondala, rose to the occasion to secure their ticket to the global stage. Both teams will now carry Mzansi’s pride when they test their skills against some of the sharpest streetball squads from around the world.
This tournament showed off how the game is supposed to be played. Streetball is all about flair, creativity, and pace, and the national finals delivered on every front. Adding a unique twist was the “Own the Court” rule, where teams advance not only by winning but also by outscoring everyone else in their group. It is a format that is meant to keep the intensity alive right up until the last basket.
The men’s captain, Lebesa Selepe, mentioned this was a massive occasion for the team.
“We have just been crowned champions of the South Africa Half Court and booked our ticket to Dubai! You only get one shot at this thing called life, so keep firing!”
Women’s captain Lauren Fredericks was just as excited.
“We’re so excited to head to Dubai! I’m grateful to share this journey with such an amazing group of ladies; we’ve had so much fun already, and I know the experience will be incredible.”
The national finals marked a milestone moment for South African basketball. Now, all eyes turn to Dubai, where the Blue Soldiers and Hoop Hustlers will showcase their game on the world stage.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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