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| PRESIDENT CALLS FOR JOINT SITTING OF PARLIAMENT TO DELIVER SONA 2026 |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has called a joint sitting of the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces to deliver the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday, 12 February 2026. |
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“The President has called the joint sitting in accordance with Section 84(2)(d) of the Constitution and Rule 13(1)(a) of the Joint Rules of Parliament. The Constitution provides that the President may summon the National Assembly, the National Council of Provinces, or Parliament to an extraordinary sitting to conduct special business,” the Parliament said.
During the sitting, which will be held at the Cape Town City Hall, the President will highlight achievements of the administration, flag challenges, and outline interventions for the coming financial year.
SONA marks the official opening of the annual parliamentary programme and sets out the government’s key policy priorities for the year ahead.
SONA 2026 will be broadcast live at 19:00 on Parliament TV on DSTV Channel 408 and on Parliament's YouTube Channel.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA RECEIVES BRIEFING FROM MADAGASCAR |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted Colonel Michael Randrianirina, President of the Refoundation of the Republic of Madagascar, for a briefing at Mahlamba Ndlopfu, the Official Residence in Pretoria. |
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Colonel Randrianirina briefed President Ramaphosa on the steps being taken towards a peaceful transitional process, which includes a national dialogue amongst all the people of Madagascar.
President Ramaphosa welcomed the briefing and, in line with the decision of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), took the opportunity to reiterate the need to support Madagascar’s transition to constitutional democracy with an inclusive national dialogue that will lead to elections as soon as possible.
In this regard, President Ramaphosa reaffirmed SADC's decision to deploy the Panel of the Elders to Madagascar.
– Source: www.thepresidency.gov.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICA TO SHOWCASE INVESTMENT POTENTIAL AT WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM |
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| A delegation of South African ministers will showcase the country’s economic progress, reform momentum and investment potential at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. |
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The forum will be held from 19 to 23 January 2026 under the theme: A Spirit of Dialogue.
South Africa’s delegation to the economic gathering includes Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola, Electricity and Energy Minister Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille, and Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni.
“South Africa will showcase its improving economic position reflected in strengthening investor confidence.
“Key recent developments include the stabilisation of electricity supply, removal from the Financial Action Task Force’s [FATF] greylist and an upgrade of the sovereign credit rating by the rating agency S&P Global.
“The ministers will highlight progress on structural reforms across energy, logistics, water, digital communications, and small business sectors, among others,” National Treasury said.
South Africa will be positioned as a definitive choice for global investors.
“The delegation’s strategic intent is to position South Africa as an attractive investment destination, reflected in demonstrable progress in attaining macroeconomic stability, positive momentum in economic reform implementation, regional leadership, and global diplomacy.
“This positioning aligns with South Africa’s medium-term growth strategy, anchored in four interdependent policy pillars: maintaining macroeconomic stability, accelerating structural reforms, building state capability and investing in growth-enhancing infrastructure,” the department added.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| REFORMS BEAR FRUIT AS WORLD BANK PROJECTS SOUTH AFRICA'S ECONOMIC GROWTH |
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| A new World Bank report projecting economic growth for South Africa over the next two years is an indication that government’s reform agenda is bearing fruit. |
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This, after the international development organisation reported that South Africa’s economy is expected to grow by some 1.4% in 2026—increasing to 1.7% in 2027.
“Government welcomes the World Bank’s assessment that shows economic growth in South Africa strengthened to 1.3% in 2025, supported by a more reliable electricity supply, a strong agricultural harvest, and improved business confidence toward the end of the year.
“The World Bank’s outlook further projects that growth will increase to 1.4% in 2026 and 1.5% in 2027. This reflects the positive impact of continued reform momentum, particularly in the energy and logistics sectors, alongside rising public investment,” government said in a statement.
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Private consumption as well as private-sector investment is expected to contribute to growth, spurred by streamlined public spending and work to remove bottlenecks in supply constraints.
“South Africa’s performance reflects a broader regional trend, with Sub-Saharan Africa’s growth rising to 4% in 2025 and forecast to reach 4.3% in 2026 and 4.7% in 2027. South Africa’s growth outlook contributes to the Southern African regional economic stability, given its central role in trade, investment flows and value chains across neighbouring economies.
“The World Bank’s outlook affirms that sustained reforms are beginning to yield positive results. Government remains committed to accelerating inclusive growth that translates into jobs, economic opportunity and improved living conditions for all South Africans.
“Government will continue to work with social partners, the private sector and international development institutions to strengthen reforms, unlock investment and build a resilient, inclusive and sustainable economy,” the statement concluded.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICA’S YOUNG SCIENTISTS SET TO SHINE AT IRIS GLOBAL SYMPOSIUM IN INDIA |
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| Four of South Africa’s most promising young scientists are gearing up to represent the country at the Initiative for Research and Innovation in STEM (IRIS) Global Symposium, scheduled to take place in India from 27 to 31 January 2026. These budding researchers, who all excelled at last October's Eskom Expo for Young Scientists International Science Fair, will present groundbreaking projects that address pressing environmental issues and enhance accessibility for the visually impaired. |
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The esteemed delegation, under the leadership of Dr Krishnie Naidoo, the Eskom Expo Academic Director, is poised to showcase innovations that not only highlight South Africa’s scientific talent but also potentially hold solutions for global challenges.
The selected pupils, each presenting unique projects, are making strides in various fields of science:
Melokuhle Khuzwayo and Simesihle Khuzwayo from King Bhekuzulu High School in Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal
Project: “Double Trouble, Double Solution: Neutralising acids and plastics with nature’s help”
Summary: Their innovative research showcases how banana peel and yeast extracts can effectively reduce water acidity and remove microplastics, sometimes outpacing traditional chemical treatments. This practical application provides a sustainable and affordable method for improving water quality, especially in resource-limited communities.
Jivesh Ramnath from Hoërskool Richardsbaai in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal
Project: “JØ7 Vireo: Development of a low-cost AI-powered navigation device for the blind and visually impaired”
Summary: Jivesh’s device aims to enhance the mobility of blind and visually impaired individuals by using real-time object identification and distance awareness. Highlighting affordability and scalability, this project represents a significant advancement in AI-driven assistive technology.
Nkanteko Moyane from Daleview Secondary School, Gauteng
Project: “ECOHARVEST: Integrated Phytoremediation for contaminated soil and mining wastewater”
Summary: This research demonstrates the effectiveness of using hyperaccumulator plants to remove heavy metals from polluted soil, achieving up to a 63.5% reduction. The findings provide hope for restoring mining-affected lands and supporting healthier food production through natural treatments.
– Source: www.iol.co.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICAN AGENCIES SHINE ON THE GLOBAL STAGE AT THE INTERNATIONAL ECHO AWARDS 2025 |
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| South Africa’s marketing excellence has once again been recognised on the global stage, with local agencies earning top honours at the prestigious International Echo Awards 2025, confirming the country’s continued strength in data-driven, results-focused marketing. |
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The International ECHO Awards, presented by the Global Alliance for Marketing and Management Associations (GAMMA), celebrate the world’s most effective marketing campaigns, those that deliver measurable impact, strategic insight, and creative excellence. To be recognised among the winners places South African agencies firmly alongside the best in the world.
South African winners: International ECHO Awards 2025
The following South African agencies were recognised for their outstanding work:
- "Honda’s Real-Time Data-Driven Lead Engine" - Gold - Best use of 1st party data (Agency: WeFuse / Client: Honda Southern Africa (PTY) LTD)
- "Honda’s Real-Time Data-Driven Lead Engine" - Bronze - Best use of Digital Advertising (Agency: WeFuse / Client: Honda Southern Africa (PTY) LTD)
- "GEOFF and Stellenbosch Business School: sneaking SEO into GenAI" - Bronze - Best use of SEO (Agency: Rogerwilco / Client: Stellenbosch Business School)
- "Shaka iLembe Season 2 Experience" - Bronze - Publishing Entertainment Media and Sports (Agency: S2 Multimedia / Client: Mzansi Magic)
- "From Forecast to Checkout: Cape Union Mart’s Live Weather-Driven Personalisation Journey" - Bronze - Retail and e-commerce (Agency: Offernet / Client: Cape Union Mart)
These accolades reflect not only creative brilliance, but also a deep commitment to effectiveness, accountability, and innovation in marketing communications.
A proud moment for the local industry
Speaking on the achievement, the Direct Marketing Association of South Africa (Dmasa) congratulated all winners and entrants, noting the importance of global benchmarking for local excellence.
“South African agencies continue to prove that our work stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the best internationally. These Echo wins are a testament to strategic thinking, rigorous measurement, and world-class execution,” said Dmasa.
The Dmasa, custodians of the Assegai Awards, has proudly aligned the local awards programme with the International Echo Awards, enabling South African finalists and winners to showcase their work on a global platform.
Congratulations to all who entered
While today we celebrate the winners, sincere congratulations are extended to all South African agencies who entered the International Echo Awards this year. Competing at this level reflects confidence, ambition, and a commitment to excellence that strengthens the entire marketing industry.
South Africa’s performance at the International Echo Awards 2025 reinforces the country’s reputation as a hub of marketing talent, innovation, and effectiveness, an achievement worthy of recognition and celebration.
– Source: www.bizcommunity.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICAN LEARN-TO-CODE PROGRAMME GETS GLOBAL RECOGNITION |
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| South Africa has been changing how kids learn to code with a homegrown programme that has now reached over 350 000 learners worldwide. Tangible has just been accepted into the international United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF)-led Learning Cabinet. |
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The Learning Cabinet is a platform that showcases education tools which have been independently tested and proven to be safe, effective and scalable. It’s an internationally trusted stamp of approval for programmes that actually work in real classrooms across very different countries, cultures and conditions.
Being included means Tangible now sits alongside a small group of education tools recommended to governments and education decision-makers around the world.
“Tangible’s selection by the Learning Cabinet followed a rigorous evaluation process that included academic impact studies,” says Professor Jean Greyling, Head of the Department of Computing Sciences at Nelson Mandela University, where it all started.
Developed by the university’s Department of Computing Sciences and now implemented globally by the not-for-profit Leva Foundation, Tangible teaches problem-solving and computational thinking through simple games. These games work with or without computers, which is a game-changer in countries where access to tech is limited.
Professor Greyling, coordinator of the project, says the recognition is important.
“We need to equip all learners for a future shaped by technology and artificial intelligence, and the Learning Cabinet inclusion is an important acknowledgement of an approach that was designed for classrooms everywhere, irrespective of their resources or lack of them,” shares Greyling.
In South Africa alone, many schools don’t have computers. Tangible was built with that reality in mind. So instead of screens and keyboards, kids start by playing physical, hands-on games that teach them how to think like coders. The tech can come later.
“Our goal is to reach learners worldwide, across very different classroom contexts,” shares Greyling. “In South Africa, over 16 000 schools lack computers, which is why Tangible is designed to work with or without technology, without being limited by either.”
One of Tangible’s most popular games is Rangers, where players guide a ranger through an obstacle course to catch rhino poachers. Every level introduces a new problem to solve – and along the way, learners also pick up lessons about conservation. For younger children, there’s Juicy Gems, a farming-themed game for five- to nine-year-olds. Older learners can try Speed Stars, inspired by Formula 1 racing, or Code Cup, which uses soccer to teach logic and strategy.
It’s fun and games, but it’s also real learning.
“Through the process, many learners gain the confidence to pursue mathematics, which is essential for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers.” says Greyling.
The programme follows South Africa’s Coding and Robotics curriculum from Grade R to Grade 7 and has been adapted for classrooms across the world. Special formats have even been developed for autistic and visually impaired learners, too.
To support teachers, Tangible has also created over 200 free lesson plans, shared via a WhatsApp chatbot. During its 2025 pilot year, nearly 3000 teachers signed up for the tools that allow them to teach coding even without devices.
Since launching in 2017, when it began as an Honours project by student Byron Batteson, Tangible has mushroomed. Today, it reaches learners in nine African countries, as well as Ireland, South Korea, Cyprus, Germany and Indonesia. In total, more than 350,000 learners worldwide have already used it.
One of the programme’s biggest moments each year is #Coding4Mandela, held during Mandela Month. In a recent tournament, 50 000 learners from across Africa took part. One of the earliest participants, Buhle Pikoli from Gqeberha, had never used a computer before joining. He completed all 35 levels in just two days. Today, he’s a qualified software developer.
In 2025, Tangible also hosted a global Coding World Cup with 340 teams from 30 countries. South African schools shone, placing first and second.
Countries across the world need to prepare children for a tech-driven future, and Tangible’s acceptance into the Learning Cabinet highlights that South Africa is a contributor to that necessary shift. It also proves that tech-centred learning can be made accessible, fun and practical. Nobody gets left behind.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| BISHOPS AND MICHAELHOUSE NAMED AMONG WORLD’S BEST PRIVATE SCHOOLS |
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| Bishops Diocesan College in Cape Town and Michaelhouse in KwaZulu-Natal have been named as two of the best private schools in Africa and among 150 of the best in the world. |
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The Schools Index is a trusted resource used by parents around the globe. Each year, it profiles the world’s top private international institutions. The index is created by United Kingdom (UK)-based education consultancy Carfax Education.
Schools are selected through a strict research and review process under a global team of education consultants. Selected schools meet high standards in academic results, leadership, ethos, reputation, facilities, university destinations, and long-term outcomes for old pupils.
Bishops and Michaelhouse ranked as two of the world’s best private schools in the previous edition of the index covering 2023-2024. This year’s recognition cements their status as top international institutions.
South Africa’s top two private schools join the American School of Lagos, Pembroke House and The British International School in Cairo in the ranks of Africa’s best.
Across the world, a total of 150 schools have been profiled in this year’s index, across 14 different categories that feature schools in the UK, Europe, Latin America, North America, Switzerland, Asia, Africa, Australasia, China, Hong Kong and the Middle East.
Alongside its Global Schools Index, Carfax has expanded on its “Ones to Watch” index, spotlighting 25 schools that are either on the verge of joining the world’s best or offer something unique that sets them apart from the mainstream. South Africa shines there, too. Hilton College in KwaZulu-Natal is featured in the most recent listing of the best private schools to watch.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| WATERFALL CITY NAMED AFRICA’S BEST MASTERPLAN FOR SECOND YEAR IN A ROW |
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| Waterfall City grabs the global spotlight for a second consecutive year at the International Property Awards in London. |
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The International Property Awards are the world’s largest and most widely recognised property awards programme, and Midrand’s Waterfall City just claimed a continental title at the ceremony held at the Savoy Hotel.
For 33 years, the awards have honoured the top projects and professionals in the industry across more than 50 residential and commercial categories.
While the global title went to a development in the United Arab Emirates this year, Waterfall City held onto its African crown, taking Best Masterplan Africa 2025-2026 for a second consecutive year. |
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The Masterplan category was introduced in 2024 for large-scale developments over 20 000 square metres. To qualify, projects must blend at least five different uses, such as residential, retail, commercial and public spaces.
Projects are judged by an independent panel of more than 90 experts. Each is assessed on architecture, land use, sustainability, energy efficiency, and innovation.
“One of the key criteria in the Masterplan award entry is placemaking, which is all about people-centric design and enhancing public life. Being named Best Masterplan Africa 2025-2026 speaks to our commitment to fulfilling Waterfall City’s mission of creating a place where people love to be, and I am so proud! Proud of the excellent work that numerous teams involved in Waterfall City are delivering, and also proud of flying South Africa’s flag on the world stage. Huge congratulations to all involved, and to our partners and stakeholders on another outstanding accomplishment.” shares Willie Vos, CEO of Waterfall City Management Company.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICAN GALLERY OPENS SISTER SPACE IN SAN FRANCISCO |
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| The new space, Art of Contemporary Africa (AOCA), opens on 12 February 2026 at Minnesota Street Project and will be San Francisco’s first Pan-African contemporary art gallery. |
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It launches with an exhibition titled Afropop, bringing together artists from different generations, including Dr Esther Mahlangu, Ayanda Mabulu, Noria Mabasa, Willie Bester, Clint Strydom and Samuel Allerton.
Rather than presenting African art as one fixed style, the exhibition shows how varied contemporary art on the continent actually is. The work spans painting, sculpture and mixed media and it reflects different histories, perspectives and ways of working.
“As the sister gallery to The Melrose Gallery in Johannesburg, AOCA brings the depth, diversity, and dynamism of Pan African Art to the heart of the Bay Area’s cultural landscape.”
The launch lands at a busy period for The Melrose Gallery. Later this month, the gallery will present a curated selection of work at Art Palm Beach, featuring pieces by Esther Mahlangu, Clint Strydom, Samuel Allerton, Gavin Rain and Carol Cauldwell.
Earlier in January, Art of Contemporary Africa also featured at the LA Art Show, where the team presented a group exhibition alongside a solo showcase by Dr Esther Mahlangu. Her presentation included both paintings and vessels created over eight decades of inspiring work.
“We are proud to present our stable of Pan African artists,” AOCA shares.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| CAPE TOWN-MADE DAVID CLIMBS US CHARTS, DELIGHTS GLOBAL AUDIENCES |
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| South African animated movie “David” is drawing audiences and praise across America. It opened to an estimated US$22 million in its first weekend, marking Angel Studios’ strongest theatrical debut, reports “Cape {town} Etc”. |
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The film has kept steady after its launch. Four weeks on, David has earned roughly US$75 million in North America. That puts the film among the year’s surprise box-office successes.
Local talent led production. Directors Phil Cunningham and Brent Dawes worked with Sunrise Animation Studios in Cape Town. More than 400 animators across dozens of countries helped bring the story to screen.
Critics have noted the film’s craft (Rotten Tomatoes). Reviewers praised the animation and production values while debating its tone. Audience reactions have been strong, with high viewer scores reported on aggregator sites.
Producers say the film’s success shows global appetite for locally made stories with universal themes. Cinema managers in South Africa report steady demand for screenings at Ster Kinekor and Nu Metro (Angel).
David’s run is also a practical win for South African animation. It proves local studios can deliver work that stands beside big Hollywood projects. The film now heads into more international markets and a longer theatrical life.
– Source: www.capetownetc.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICA’S DAKAR HEROES CONQUER THE DESERT |
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| After two weeks of punishing dunes, rocky trails, just over 7000 kilometres and 13 gruelling marathon stages across Saudi Arabia, the South African team returns home with stage victories, top-ten finishes and lessons that will fuel their next Dakar challenge. |
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Despite the challenges, all three TGRSA GR Hilux crews crossed the finish line. Saood Variawa and Francois Cazalet led the charge, with Variawa securing a stage victory on Stage 8 and consistently placing inside the top ten, ultimately finishing as the top South African driver in 10th overall. Saood reflected on this milestone with gratitude.
“It’s my third Dakar and my third finish. We had the pace to be in the top five all the time; we won a stage, and that brought confidence back into the team. Some things were out of my control and cost us a lot of time, but I’ve grown a lot and the results are starting to show.”
Cazalet also shared the same sentiment.
“Dakar is always tricky and different from what you expect, but we pushed until the end and did it clean.”
Joao Ferreira and Filipe Palmeiro endured a rollercoaster campaign, repeatedly hampered by punctures and a collision with a rock during the second Marathon stage, which caused significant damage and time loss. But even with setbacks, their speed and skill were undeniable.
Guy Botterill and Oriol Mena delivered some of the most consistent paces of the team, regularly running inside the top ten. A few mishaps kept them from an even higher finish.
Botterill reflects on the challenges and how they still kept going.
“We were in the top 10 almost every stage and then got caught out by a few mishaps. That’s Dakar. It’s a long race, and things do go wrong. But the pace is there, the car was strong and there’s a lot to build on.”
Behind the scenes, Team Principal Shameer Variawa praised the crew’s effort and the reliability of the GR Hilux cars.
“The pace has been good, and we didn’t have many mechanical problems, which shows the work the team put in.”
After such an epic effort, the South African crew is now on their way home, ready to land and celebrate this remarkable achievement with family, friends, and fans who have been following every dune and stage.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| PERFECT WEEKEND IN DUBAI FOR SOUTH AFRICA’S WOMEN’S SEVENS TEAM |
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| South Africa’s women’s sevens side capped off a perfect weekend in Dubai by lifting the title in style, finishing the tournament unbeaten and confirming their status as champions heading into the HSBC SVNS 2 series. |
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The South Africans came from behind to defeat Argentina 12–5 in a tense showdown at the Sevens Stadium. In the build-up to the tournament, the coaching staff backed continuity, selecting the same core group of 12 players who retained the Rugby Africa Women’s Sevens title in Kenya last year, a decision that clearly paid off.
South Africa’s coach Cecil Afrika attributed their HSBC SVNS 3 success in Dubai to good teamwork from the players.
“It was a great win, and the players deserve all the credit. We really defended well, but our attack also proved very effective.”
Earlier on Sunday, the Bok Women had booked their place in the final with a dominant 36–5 semi-final victory over Poland. The victory over Poland also confirmed qualification for the HSBC SVNS 2 series, which will take place in Nairobi (14–15 February), Montevideo (21–22 March) and Sao Paulo (28–29 March). Argentina also secured promotion after fighting back to beat Czechia 22–12 in their semi-final.
“We must also acknowledge those players who did not travel this time but are part of the squad. They helped us with our preparation and I am happy to say we got our tactics and game analysis right also.”
By the end of the weekend, South Africa had won all five of their matches at the Sevens Stadium. With silverware secured and promotion already in the bag, the Bok Women now turn their attention to the next phase of the season.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| TEAM OCEAN MAVERICKS FROM SOUTH AFRICA FINISHED THE WORLD’S TOUGHEST ROW |
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| The Ocean Mavericks have crossed the finish line in Antigua after 34 brutal days at sea, securing third place in the World’s Toughest Row and smashing their fundraising target with R2.1 million raised for Pondoland Conservation. |
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After 34 days, 2 hours and 11 minutes at sea, the Ocean Mavericks (Martin Hall, JP Briner, Angelo Wilkie-Page and Matt Botha) crossed the finish line in English Harbour, Antigua, stepping onto solid ground for the first time since leaving La Gomera in the Canary Islands on 14 December 2025. They arrived to emotional reunions with family and friends, taking those first wobbly steps that always look a bit surreal after weeks at sea and securing an exceptional podium finish in one of the most demanding endurance events on Earth.
This wasn’t a normal race. This was a challenge where their whole world became the ocean, the sky, and the few metres of space inside their boat. No comfort. No proper sleep. No escape. Just two-hour shifts around the clock, rowing through exhaustion, isolation and whatever the Atlantic feels like throwing at you that day.
“This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Wild Child founder Matt Botha. “It’s the ultimate test of human endurance. It was everything and more.”
And it really is hard to wrap your head around what 34 days at sea actually looks like. Your body is constantly sore. Your hands are permanently ruined. Everything is damp. You’re always tired. You’re living in a rhythm of effort and survival, where the only way forward is to keep showing up for your shift, no matter how you feel.
“It was extremely tough out there and tested us mentally and physically. It absolutely lives up to its name, the World’s Toughest Row,” said skipper JP Briner.
For Martin Hall, the ocean wasn’t just a setting… it became the teacher.
“It was a stoic masterclass from the ocean. We were taught courage, temperance, and we had to use a lot of wisdom,” he said.
But through all of it, the bruises, the sea, the endless horizon, the Ocean Mavericks didn’t miss a shift. Not one. And that consistency, that discipline, that grit… is what got them across.
“I think what sums it up is the word vasbyt. Just dig deep,” said Angelo Wilkie-Page. “Through all the highs and lows, we kept moving. That discipline carried us through.”
That “vasbyt” spirit also carried them through one of the most emotional and difficult parts of the journey. Right at the end, they had to decide one day out from the finish line: keep going and arrive at 2am, or slow down and time their arrival for midmorning?
“After pushing so hard for 34 days we had to decide if we should actually slow down now, and that was a big decision, and there were lots of mixed emotions and all four of us didn’t agree. So the fact that we are standing here, as best mates, having enjoyed a perfect finish, is proof of the respect and consideration we’ve shown to each other throughout the race,” said Matt Botha.
Before sunset on their final full day at sea, the Ocean Mavericks reached a milestone that made this race bigger than a podium finish: they surpassed their fundraising target, raising a staggering R2.1 million for the Pondoland Conservation Trust. The Trust works to protect one of South Africa’s most biologically rich and threatened coastlines, supporting community-led conservation and promoting sustainable livelihoods along the Pondoland coast. So this wasn’t endurance for ego… it was endurance for a cause that matters.
Bronwyn Andeson from Wild Child, who has been keeping in communication with the team throughout their journey, said she is “so proud of them and just thrilled to have smashed that fundraising target”.
Even through all the hardship, the guys still managed to find moments of joy out there too, including catching around seven dorado, eating four during the course of the event and releasing some of the bigger ones. And in what might be the most proudly South African detail of all, they packed for the Atlantic, like only South Africans do.
“We packed 32kg of homegrown South African biltong in La Gomera, and we ended up eating so much fish that we still have 12kg left that has travelled across the whole Atlantic Ocean that we’d like to gift to [race organisers] to auction,” said Matt Botha.
Only our people would row an ocean and arrive with a donation of biltong.
The Ocean Mavericks also felt the love from back home, with messages and support helping them push through the rough days. Martin Hall singled out one “unsung hero” who made sure the boat had an extra dose of motivation whenever spirits dipped.
“One unsung hero is my brother, who has rallied celebrities from every corner of South Africa to send through messages of hope and support, which really got us pumped—so Andrew, thank you boetie.”
And now that they’ve finished, the “what’s next” question has already started. When asked by race organisers if they’d consider taking on the Pacific Row next, Angelo Wilkie-Page didn’t hesitate.
“I don’t see why not!”
Which tells us everything we need to know about this team.
Four South Africans climbed into a boat, waved goodbye to land, and refused to let the ocean win. They rowed 4 800km, finished third in one of the toughest races on Earth, and raised R2.1 million to protect a coastline that future generations deserve to know, love, and fight for.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICAN COACH RULANI MOKWENA CLAIMS FIRST TROPHY ABROAD |
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| South Africa coach Rulani Mokwena celebrates his first trophy abroad after leading MC Alger to Algerian Super Cup glory in a high-stakes derby clash. |
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Rulani Mokwena has added a major milestone to his coaching career, lifting his first trophy outside of South Africa after guiding MC Alger to the Algerian Super Cup title.
The South African coach was the mastermind behind a narrow but impressive 1–0 victory over fierce rivals USM Alger in the Super Cup clash, played at the Nelson Mandela Stadium. The win not only secured silverware for MC Alger but also marked a significant personal achievement for Rulani, who continues to stamp his authority on North African football.
The 39-year-old coach joined the Algerian giants in July last year, signing a two-year deal after taking over from Tunisian coach Khaled Ben Yahia. Since arriving, he has steadily rebuilt momentum with the “People’s Club,” overcoming early inconsistencies to guide them back to winning ways. |
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The Super Cup triumph also strengthens MC Alger’s ambitions beyond domestic success. The club remains one of Algeria’s most historic teams, having been crowned African champions in 1976. Should Mokwena lead them to CAF Champions League glory this season, it would coincide with the 50th anniversary of their only continental title, adding further weight to the challenge ahead.
Before his move north, he built an impressive reputation in South African football. He won four league titles with Mamelodi Sundowns and also held coaching stints at Orlando Pirates and Chippa United, earning respect for his modern approach and tactical intelligence.
Now, with silverware secured in South Africa and Algeria, he has taken another step in his coaching journey. One that proves South African coaching talent can thrive on the continental stage.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| LAURA WOLVAARDT CONTINUES TO SET THE STANDARD WITH ICC PLAYER OF THE MONTH HONOUR |
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| South Africa’s women’s cricket captain continues to raise the bar, and December proved to be another statement month for Laura Wolvaardt. The Proteas opener has been recognised as the ICC Women’s Player of the Month after playing a leading role in South Africa’s dominant performances against Ireland. |
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Laura was at the heart of the Proteas’ success across both white-ball formats. She anchored the batting line-up as South Africa secured convincing series victories in the T20Is and ODIs on home soil. The accolade marks her second ICC Player of the Month award in a short space of time.
“I’m delighted to be named the ICC Player of the Month once again. To win it two times in three months is very special and something I’ll cherish for a long time. I loved batting throughout Ireland’s tour of South Africa, and it was hugely rewarding to contribute with runs across both the ODI and T20I formats.”
Against Ireland, Laura set the tone early in the T20I series before seamlessly transitioning that confidence into the longer ODI format. Time and again, she provided South Africa with strong foundations at the top of the order. |
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She might have gained individual recognition, but her focus remains firmly on the bigger picture and what lies ahead for the Proteas Women on the international stage.
“With the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 on the horizon, my focus is firmly on carrying this momentum forward. We’ve shown real progress in recent ICC events, and I’m excited about the summer ahead in England and Wales. I hope to continue playing my part and help take the team all the way.”
Also worth mentioning, Laura finished ahead of teammate Sune Luus, who enjoyed an impressive all-round month, as well as India’s Shafali Verma. This goes to show South Africa’s growing strength and depth within the women’s team.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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