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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA CONGRATULATES NAVI PILLAY ON NOBEL PEACE PRIZE |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated veteran South African jurist Justice Navanethem “Navi” Pillay on being awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to promote peace and international law. |
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In a statement on Friday, 9 October 2026, the President said the recognition was a tribute to Pillay’s courage, integrity and lifelong commitment to justice.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee honoured Pillay for her contribution to strengthening international law and ensuring accountability for war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide.
The committee described her as “a person who, with exceptional courage and integrity, has led the way towards a more comprehensive legal order. This year’s laureate has been instrumental in ensuring that war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide are prosecuted.”
President Ramaphosa said Justice Pillay’s crowning of the Nobel Prize laureate allows the country to celebrate her progressive contributions to strengthen peace, uphold human dignity and bring hope to South Africa and peoples globally.
“She has served humanity with principle and the belief that the world can and should be a better place,” he said.
Pillay is an ad hoc judge at the International Court of Justice, where she distinguished herself in the genocide case of The Gambia v. Myanmar.
Her legal career also includes serving as a pioneering defence attorney for anti-apartheid activists and leaders, including former President Nelson Mandela.
She served as a judge and President of the Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda from 1999 to 2003 before becoming a judge of the Appeals Chamber of the International Criminal Court, a position she held from 2003 to 2008.
Following her tenure at the International Criminal Court, Pillay served as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.
President Ramaphosa said the honour underscored the importance of building a society in which everyone could realise their potential and contribute to the country and the world.
“The honour bestowed on her reminds us to build a society where every person, whatever their circumstances, can develop their abilities and contribute fully to our nation and the world.
“We are proud that Justice Pillay joins Chief Albert Luthuli, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, former President Mandela and former President FW de Klerk in highlighting the far-reaching impact of South Africans on peace, justice and the advancement of humanity.
“We congratulate Justice Pillay and wish her well as she continues to participate in various platforms to secure the rights and dignity of all people,” the President said.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICA AND ALGERIA SEEK TO DEEPEN BILATERAL COOPERATION |
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| The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, arrived in Algiers, the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, on 14 October 2026 for a working visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and advancing cooperation between South Africa and Algeria. |
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Minister Lamola was received by the South African Ambassador to Algeria, His Excellency Mr Ndumiso Ntshinga.
The visit takes place within the framework of the South Africa–Algeria Mid-Term Review (MTR), which runs from 13 to 15 October 2026. The review provides an opportunity for the two countries to assess progress in their bilateral relations and identify areas for enhanced cooperation.
The Senior Officials’ Meeting, co-chaired by the Acting Deputy Director-General: Africa at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), Mr Nyameko Goso, and Algeria’s Director-General for Africa, Mr Chebihi Boualem, preceded the ministerial engagement.
A key focus of the engagements is strengthening economic cooperation, particularly in the energy and mining sectors, as well as expanding bilateral trade and investment. Both countries recognise the potential to leverage their respective economic strengths to advance shared development objectives and promote greater economic integration across the African continent.
During the visit, Minister Lamola met with Algeria’s Minister of Mines and Mining Industries, Mr Mourad Hanifi. The engagement underscores the importance of mining cooperation in strengthening economic ties and exploring opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships.
Cooperation in the energy sector, including electricity and hydrocarbons, has also been identified as an important area of opportunity. Both countries seek to encourage collaboration between their respective state-owned entities and private-sector partners, particularly in infrastructure development, technical expertise and industrial development.
The working visit builds on the outcomes of the seventh session of the South Africa–Algeria Bi-National Commission, held in Algiers in December 2024 and co-chaired by President Cyril Ramaphosa and President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. The session reaffirmed the two countries’ commitment to strengthening their strategic partnership, with agreements concluded in areas including economic cooperation, entrepreneurship and innovation, agriculture, legal and judicial cooperation, and space science and technology.
South Africa and Algeria share longstanding political ties and a common commitment to African development and cooperation. Through the Mid-Term Review, the two countries seek to translate these strong political relations into expanded economic opportunities, increased trade and investment, and practical cooperation in strategic sectors.
The engagements in Algiers reaffirm the commitment of both countries to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing shared priorities in support of a more integrated, prosperous and industrialised African continent.
– Source: DIRCO Public Diplomacy Platforms |
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| MINISTER LAMOLA DELIVERS KEYNOTE ADDRESS ON THE FUTURE OF AFRICAN–EUROPEAN RELATIONS |
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| The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, delivered the keynote address at the conference titled “The Future of African–European Relations: From Intent to Practice” on 12 October 2026 at the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) in Pretoria. |
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The conference brought together researchers, policymakers, diplomats, development partners, industry representatives and experts from Africa and Europe to explore ways of strengthening cooperation between the two regions and translating shared ambitions into inclusive, practical and sustainable outcomes. The event was held at Brooklyn Court, Pretoria, and was also accessible online via Zoom.
Discussions focused on the changing dynamics of African–European relations amid an increasingly fragmented and competitive global order. Key issues included geopolitical rivalry, shifting economic dependencies, migration and mobility, the energy transition, demand for critical minerals and changing financial flows.
The programme explored opportunities for Africa and Europe to develop a fair and mutually beneficial partnership in critical minerals and energy, balance border security with legal migration and mobility, and navigate differing strategic interests while advancing practical cooperation.
The conference provided a platform for dialogue on how the two regions can build on their existing partnership to promote sustainable development, strengthen cooperation and deliver tangible benefits for their respective populations.
The event was co-hosted by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS), the Hanns Seidel Foundation (HSF), the Federation of German Industries (BDI) and the Megatrends Afrika consortium, comprising the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP), the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) and the Kiel Institute for the World Economy.
– Sources: DIRCO Public Diplomacy Platforms I issafrica.org.za |
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| DEPUTY MINISTER BOTES ADDRESSES STUDENT-LED DISCUSSION ON SOUTH AFRICA’S FUTURE |
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| The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Alvin Botes, delivered the keynote address at a student-led discussion at the University of Zululand’s KwaDlangezwa Campus on Monday, 12 October 2026. |
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Held under the theme Securing South Africa’s Future: From Critical Minerals to Critical Knowledge, the discussion focused on student leadership, science diplomacy and higher education resilience in an era of global trade fragmentation.
The engagement provided a platform to consider the relationship between critical minerals, knowledge development and the role of higher education in navigating an evolving global landscape.
The programme also featured a special contribution by Mr Bassam Elhussiny, Political Counsellor on Palestine, on the right to self-determination of the Palestinian people.
– Source: DIRCO Public Diplomacy Platforms |
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| DEPUTY MINISTER MORAKA LEADS LEARNER SUPPORT INITIATIVE IN MANGAUNG |
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| The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Thandi Moraka, led a public participation programme at Phahamisang Primary School in Mangaung, Free State, on Monday, 12 October 2026. |
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The initiative involved donations of sanitary towels, school shoes and tablets to support learners and address some of the barriers that may affect their participation in education.
Through this initiative, the programme seeks to promote dignity, support learners’ educational needs and improve access to digital learning opportunities. The donations also reflect the importance of community-focused initiatives in helping create an enabling environment for learners to participate more fully in their education.
– Source: DIRCO Public Diplomacy Platforms |
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| SOUTH AFRICA AND EUROPEAN UNION CONVENE INAUGURAL PEACE, SECURITY AND DEFENCE DIALOGUE |
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| The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) hosted the inaugural South Africa–European Union (EU) Peace, Security and Defence Dialogue (PSDD) on 8 October 2026, bringing together representatives from South Africa and the EU to exchange views on regional and global security developments and explore areas of cooperation in peace, security and defence. |
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The dialogue was co-chaired by Ambassador Xolisa Mabhongo, South Africa’s representative, and Mr Cosman Dobran, Acting Managing Director for Peace, Security and Defence at the European External Action Service (EEAS).
The engagement provided a platform for South Africa and the EU to discuss shared security concerns, exchange perspectives on developments in Africa and Europe, and consider opportunities to strengthen cooperation in addressing emerging and transnational threats.
Discussions on the international security landscape included developments in the Great Lakes region, the Horn of Africa, northern Mozambique, the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and the Russia–Ukraine conflict. The dialogue also considered respective peace, security and defence policies and initiatives, including conflict prevention and early warning, peace mediation, military training and capacity-building, disaster relief and humanitarian assistance.
Participants further explored potential areas of cooperation in defence technology, dual-use technologies, logistics and sustainment, and the advancement of strategic economic corridors, including the North–South Corridor. These discussions highlighted the importance of technological collaboration, skills development, knowledge transfer and industrial partnerships in supporting security and resilience.
The dialogue also addressed a range of transnational and emerging security threats, including counterterrorism, cybercrime, cybersecurity and hybrid threats, maritime security, space security, illicit drug trafficking, illegal migration, the smuggling of migrants, trafficking in persons and illicit wildlife trafficking.
Representatives from relevant South African government departments and agencies participated in the discussions, reflecting the cross-cutting nature of these challenges and the importance of a coordinated, whole-of-government approach. Participating institutions included DIRCO, the South African National Defence Force, the South African Police Service, the Department of Home Affairs, the Department of Transport, the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, the National Centre for Intelligence Coordination, the Border Management Authority and the National Prosecuting Authority.
The co-chairs concluded the engagement with a summary of the discussions and consideration of implementation plans and milestones.
The inaugural PSDD marked an important platform for continued engagement between South Africa and the EU on shared peace, security and defence priorities, with a view to strengthening cooperation in addressing common challenges and promoting regional and international stability.
– Source: DIRCO Public Diplomacy Platforms |
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| MEC IVAN MEYER WELCOMES GLOBAL DELEGATES TO 2026 WORLD WAGYU CONFERENCE IN STELLENBOSCH |
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| Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, yesterday officially opened the 2026 World Wagyu Conference in Stellenbosch, welcoming international delegates, scientists, breeders, and industry leaders from across the globe to the Western Cape. |
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Held under the theme, One Breed. One Vision, the conference brings together leading experts in Wagyu genetics, production, sustainability, market development, and consumer trends, highlighting the growing importance of premium beef production in global agriculture.
Addressing delegates at the opening ceremony, MEC Meyer said the conference demonstrates how innovation, collaboration, and agricultural excellence can drive economic growth and create opportunities across the agricultural value chain. He noted that the Wagyu industry aligns strongly with the Western Cape Government’s Growth for Jobs (G4J) strategy, which seeks to stimulate investment, support job creation, expand exports, and build climate resilience.
“The Wagyu industry is making an important contribution to the Western Cape economy by creating jobs, attracting investment, supporting agricultural growth, and supplying premium-quality products to local and international markets. As demand for high-value agricultural products continues to grow, Wagyu farming presents significant opportunities for economic development, rural livelihoods, and export growth in the province,” said MEC Meyer.
MEC Meyer highlighted the rapid growth of the South African Wagyu industry, which has successfully combined world-class genetics with local farming expertise to produce a premium beef product that competes in international markets. He added that investment in advanced breeding techniques, genomics, animal welfare, and sustainable farming practices strengthens the competitiveness of the province’s agricultural sector.
The MEC also emphasised the broader economic contribution of Wagyu production to the Western Cape. Beyond farming operations, the industry supports employment in breeding, feed production, veterinary services, transport, processing, retail, hospitality, and tourism. Premium Wagyu products are increasingly featured in high-end restaurants, hotels, and tourism establishments, enhancing the province’s reputation as a global food and wine destination.
“Premium agricultural products such as Wagyu beef showcase the innovation, quality, and resilience of Western Cape agriculture. Through collaboration, scientific advancement, and sustainable production, we can unlock new opportunities for farmers while strengthening our position in global markets,” said MEC Meyer.
The conference also provides an opportunity for international stakeholders to exchange knowledge on key challenges facing the industry, including climate change adaptation, sustainability, genetic integrity, and market access. Minister Meyer encouraged delegates to use the event to strengthen partnerships and identify innovative solutions that will support the future growth of the global Wagyu industry.
Welcoming delegates to the province, MEC Meyer invited visitors to experience the Western Cape’s renowned agricultural excellence, hospitality, food, wine, and tourism offerings during their stay.
“The Western Cape is proud to host this prestigious international gathering. We look forward to showcasing our agricultural expertise, building new partnerships, and demonstrating why the province remains a leading destination for investment, innovation, and sustainable agricultural development,” concluded MEC Meyer.
– Source: www.gov.za |
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| BABYLONSTOREN LANDS AMONG THE WORLD’S BEST HOTELS |
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| A South African hotel has made it onto the list of the best hotels in the world. Babylonstoren has been ranked 26th in “Condé Nast Traveler’s” 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards. |
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The ranking comes from travellers who have actually visited the farm. Condé Nast Traveler’s readers cast 798 867 votes in this year’s awards, now in their 39th year, to share their picks for the best travel experiences on the planet.
On the list, Babylonstoren placed just after The Ben in West Palm Beach, Florida, and just before the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills. At the very top, The Peninsula Hong Kong took first place, followed by Passalacqua in Moltrasio, Park Hyatt Chicago, Le Méridien Essex Chicago and The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto.
When it comes to South Africa’s world-class gem, voters fell for the farm’s mix of gardens, heritage and fabulous food. |
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Condé Nast Traveler points to the whitewashed Cape Dutch buildings, the gardens with their incredible biodiversity and the farm-to-table dining, all spread across a 1070-hectare working farm in the Cape Winelands. The formal garden has more than 300 edible or medicinal plants, and the changing harvest shapes what ends up on the menu.
This isn’t the farm hotel’s first time in the spotlight – Babylonstoren has been recognised in the Readers’ Choice Awards in 2018 and every year from 2020 to 2026.
“This recognition belongs to the people who bring Babylonstoren to life every day,” says Dalené Claassens, director of hotel and hospitality. “Our gardeners, farmers, bakers, winemakers and hospitality team all contribute to the guest experience. Luxury here is the freedom to explore, the generosity of what we grow and make, and the care with which it is shared. Every detail should connect guests more closely to the farm. To receive this recognition from our guests is a powerful endorsement of that approach.”
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICAN ARTISTS TO PARTICIPATE IN THE HONG KONG PERFORMING ARTS EXPO 2026 |
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| Opera and jazz singer Jamakazi Bazana and African music singer, poet and storyteller Bongi Kotta Ramushwana will participate in HKPAX 2026 that takes place from 9 to 13 October 2026. Organised by the Hong Kong Arts Development Council and themed "Passion in Motion", the second edition of this global flagship event serves as a premier marketplace and exchange platform for international performing arts professionals while offering spectacular showcases to the public. |
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The inaugural HKPAX in 2024 welcomed over 1600 arts leaders and participants from 60 regions and countries, alongside more than 32 000 local audience members. Building from this foundation, the next edition of HKPAX in 2026 embraces the theme Passion in Motion, framing the performing arts as a dynamic, vibrant, and ever-evolving field – one that is driven by curiosity, debate, collaboration, and the movement of ideas, people, and practices across disciplines and borders.
Sponsored by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China and organised by the Hong Kong Arts Development Council, HKPAX reinforces Hong Kong’s position as an international hub for East-meets-West arts and cultural exchange.
The two artists will be proudly representing South Africa’s arts, music, culture and heritage, putting South Africa on the map during this international event. This also enhances the good relations that exist between South Africa and China, including the area of economic diplomacy.
– Source: South African Consulate General in Hong Kong I www.thediplomaticsociety.co.za |
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| CAPE TOWN CREEPS INTO THE WORLD’S TOP 50 HALLOWEEN DESTINATIONS |
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| Cape Town has been ranked among the world’s top 50 Halloween destinations. “Travel and Tour World” (“TTW”) has just released its latest ranking of the Top 50 Halloween Travel Destinations for 2026, and Cape Town has landed on the list. |
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The Mother City has scooped 48th place on the list of spooky destinations, behind Buenos Aires at 47th and ahead of Tenerife in 49th. TTW looked at more than 100 destinations around the world to decide which 50 deserved a place on its list. Each destination was assessed for its spooky history, culture and tourism experiences, as well as how enjoyable it would be for visitors.
To make the ranking fair, TTW used seven categories, each contributing a different percentage to a destination’s final score. These included Halloween identity, heritage, signature experiences and activities, accessibility, authenticity and local value.
The Mother City earned its spot on the list notably for hosting a spring Halloween, as opposed to more traditional ‘spooky’ destinations in the Northern Hemisphere that celebrate the holiday in autumn.
At the top of the list, Transylvania in Romania takes first place for its gothic landscapes and ties to Dracula and Bran Castle. The runner-up is Derry in Northern Ireland, known for its ancient Gaelic festival, Samhain, and spooky parades. Salem in Massachusetts lands the third spot for its historic legacy and “haunted happenings”.
The Mother City, where Halloween falls in spring, the jacarandas are in bloom and the sun sets well after dinner, clearly has a few tricks up her sleeve to have made it onto the list.
Cape Town’s spooky credentials actually go back centuries. There’s the Flying Dutchman, the legendary ghost ship doomed to sail endlessly off the Cape of Good Hope, never making port. Of course, there’s also the Castle of Good Hope, which is South Africa’s oldest surviving colonial building and widely regarded as one of the country’s most haunted addresses.
There’s also Devil’s Peak, linked to the legend of Jan van Hunks, who challenged the Devil to a pipe-smoking contest. Legend has it they’re still at it, puffing away beneath Table Mountain’s famous cloud tablecloth. It would be remiss not to mention the Cape Doctor — the notorious south-easter that howls at all hours.
Find yourself in Cape Town for Halloween? Join the famous Cape Town Zombie Walk on Saturday, 31 October 2026, at 5pm. Zombies shuffle out of the Company’s Garden and into the CBD for a ghoulish takeover. It’s family-friendly and supports the Lucky Lucy Foundation’s animal rescue work.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| BANYANA BANYANA INTO NEXT ROUND OF OLYMPIC QUALIFICATION AFTER BEATING MADAGASCAR |
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| Banyana Banyana progressed into the third round of Olympic qualification after beating Madagascar 3-0 in the second-leg in Bloemfontein to complete a 7-0 aggregate victory. |
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Having taken a 4-0 lead into the clash on Tuesday, 13 October 2026. Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis shuffled her pack to give other players an opportunity in the starting line-up.
Despite the changes, the home side still dominated the opening exchanges but could not find the final pass or they were not clinical enough in the final third.
Antonia Maponya could have opened the scoring in the second minute but her header was an easy save by the Malagasy goalkeeper while Amogelang Motau came closest when she hit the cross-bar later on. Gabriela Salgado-Moodaly finally broke the dead in the first minute of the second half with Hilda Magaia providing the assist.
Ronnel Donnelly came off the bench to grab the second goal of the game, getting on the end of a pass from Thembi Kgatlana. Donnelly completed her brace and wrapped up the scoring for the contest when the forward provided the finish from a Magaia assist.
Banyana will now focus on opponents in the next round as they look to book their ticket to the 2028 Olympic Games that will take place in Los Angeles, United States.
– Source: www.sabcsport.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICA FIGHTS BACK TO SHARE INDOOR HOCKEY SERIES WITH NAMIBIA |
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| The SPAR South African Women’s Indoor Hockey team recovered from two early defeats to finish the series with two wins, a draw and valuable experience for four debutants. |
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Tegan Fourie completed a hat-trick with a late equaliser as the SPAR South African Women’s Indoor Hockey team fought back to secure a 4–4 draw against Namibia in the fifth and final Test in Windhoek on Sunday, 11 October 2026.
The result saw the five-match series end with both sides recording two victories each, along with one draw.
South Africa had a difficult start to the series, losing the opening two Tests before responding with back-to-back wins. The visitors showed similar determination in the final match, coming from behind repeatedly to deny Namibia a series victory.
The hosts regained the lead in the second quarter when Ottilie Hinda scored in the 15th minute, taking a 2–1 advantage into half-time. |
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South Africa came out fighting after the break. Fourie converted a penalty stroke in the 25th minute to make it 2–2, before Cerian Fourie scored from a penalty corner three minutes later to put the visitors ahead for the first time.
Jivanka Kruger then put the hosts back in front in the 33rd minute, leaving South Africa trailing 4–3 with the final minutes approaching.
But Tegan Fourie had the final say. Her penalty-corner goal in the 39th minute completed her hat-trick and secured the draw for South Africa. Cerian Fourie’s earlier goal meant the visitors finished with four goals, while Philander’s brace, Hinda and Kruger accounted for Namibia’s scoring.
Fourie ended the weekend with five goals across the series, having also found the net in the second and fourth Tests.
The final result capped a determined turnaround for Calvin Price’s side, who won two of the last three matches after their opening defeats. The series also provided valuable international experience for four South African debutants.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| PIETER COETZÉ SHATTERS 50 M BACKSTROKE WORLD RECORD TO LEAD SOUTH AFRICAN WORLD CUP SURGE |
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| Building on his four-medal sweep in Baku, 22-year-old South African swim star Pieter Coetzé out-touched a world-class field to take gold in the 50 m backstroke final in world record time in the second leg of the World Aquatics Swimming World Cup in Tashkent on Friday, 9 October 2026. |
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World and Commonwealth Games champion Pieter Coetzé reached the pinnacle of global short-course swimming on Friday, breaking the world record in the men's 50 m backstroke on Day 2 of the World Aquatics Swimming World Cup leg in Tashkent.
The 22-year-old South African touched the wall in a blistering 22.09 seconds, cutting 0.02 seconds off the previous world benchmark of 22.11 set by Kliment Kolesnikov in 2022. Turning equal seconds at the 25-metre mark, Coetzé unleashed a dominant closing split to surge past overall series leader Egor Kornev (22.29) in a thrilling touch finish. Pavel Samusenko rounded out the podium in a time of 22.35.
Out-touching a stacked field, Coetzé admitted after the race that the reality of the achievement took a moment to register on the scoreboard.
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"That race was stacked," Coetzé said in his post-race interview. "We had Isaac Cooper, the world-record holder who’s on fire, and then myself, so I really don’t think I was the favourite going into that one. Seeing that time on the board, it didn’t even click that it was a world record. And then, like, a second later, I was like: ‘Oh! — the world record was 22.1.’ So … not many words to describe that. It’s crazy."
When asked if taking down the world mark changes his outlook for the rest of the circuit, Coetzé insisted his mindset remains grounded:
"I don’t think it changes much. My mindset normally stays the same, no matter what the race is, because, you know, at this level everyone is always close. I mean, the world-record holder was there, and look how close it was. So, no, you can never get too comfortable. I’ll just keep doing the same."
The historic swim marks an incredible half-second drop from Coetzé’s previous continental record of 22.51 set just six days earlier during the opening leg in Baku, Azerbaijan.
There, he spearheaded Team South Africa's campaign with a four-medal haul — taking gold in both the 100 m backstroke in an African record time of 49.11 and 200 m backstroke (1:49.64), silver in the 50 m backstroke, and bronze in the 100 m individual medley (51.60).
Coetzé’s momentum leads a strong South African short-course contingent using the circuit as preparation for the upcoming World Short Course Championships.
Fellow Baku medallists Michael Houlie (50m breaststroke silver) and Aimee Canny (100 m breaststroke bronze) — alongside finalists like Matthew Caldwell and Guy Brooks — are leveraging the high-density meets to hone themselves against world-class fields.
Coetzé is not done in Uzbekistan yet. He closes out his Tashkent programme on Saturday in the men's 100 m backstroke heats and final, where he will target his recent 49.11 African record and eye the 48.16 world record mark.
With his historic victory in the 50m backstroke, Coetzé firmly establishes himself as a top contender for the overall World Cup series title as the three-week Asian tour heads to its final stop in Astana, Kazakhstan next week.
– Source: www.iol.co.za |
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| KEAGAN MASTERS MAKES SOUTH AFRICAN MOTORSPORT HISTORY IN GERMANY |
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| South African racing driver Keagan Masters has reached the top of the podium in Germany, claiming the 2026 Porsche Sixt Carrera Cup Deutschland championship after a dramatic season finale at the Hockenheimring on Sunday, 11 October 2026. |
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The 26-year-old secured the title with a ninth-place finish in the final race, enough to keep him ahead of Dutch rival Flynt Schuring in the overall standings. The result sparked celebrations with his Proton Competition team, which has now secured its third consecutive drivers’ championship.
Masters’ first season in the fiercely competitive series has been a memorable one. He recorded eight podium finishes, including two race victories, as he established himself among the championship’s leading drivers.
“This title means an incredible amount to me. Winning in my first season in such a fiercely competitive series is unbelievable. I dedicate this success to my family, who have always supported me and were in Hockenheim,” said an overjoyed Masters.
His family travelled from South Africa to be there for the big moment, with his mother, Keryn, father, Wayne, and sister, Danielle, joining the celebrations.
The final race was anything but straightforward. Rain shortly before the start left teams facing a tyre gamble, with most initially preparing for wet conditions before the track began drying rapidly. Masters and Schuring were among those called into the pits for a last-minute switch to slick tyres, forcing both title contenders to start from the pit lane.| |
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The pair then had to fight their way through the field. Masters suffered an off-track excursion, while Schuring spun, leaving them near the back after the opening laps. Both recovered strongly, with Masters finishing ninth and Schuring twelfth.
The race itself belonged to Laptime-Performance, whose gamble on slick tyres paid off. Niels Langeveld took the win ahead of teammate Sebastian Freymuth, while Wouter Boerekamps completed the podium.
Established in 1990, the Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland is one of the longest-running one-make racing championships in the world. Drivers compete in identical Porsche 911 Cup cars, putting the focus on skill, consistency and racecraft.
Masters moved to Bavaria to pursue his motorsport career, and his title is a major reward for years of dedication and hard work. Asked about the secret to his success, the South African offered a light-hearted answer: “I love German currywurst.”
The championship is secured, and Proton Competition is celebrating another successful season, and Masters has given South African motorsport fans plenty to cheer about.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICA TOPS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP MEDAL TABLE IN SPAIN |
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| Team SA claimed six gold medals and the Nations Cup, with the junior boys sweeping the top four places despite Kira Bester missing out on a third straight world title. |
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South Africa’s paddlers had plenty to celebrate at the Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships in La Vila Joiosa, Spain, with Team SA finishing top of the medal table after an impressive weekend on the water.
The team collected six gold medals to finish ahead of hosts Spain and also secured the Nations Cup, which is decided on points, ahead of Australia.
One of the standout performances came from the junior boys, who claimed the top four places in their category. Sam Mocke led the charge, securing his third consecutive junior world title after finishing 13th overall. Keegan Vogt took silver, Ryley Smith claimed bronze, and Jarryd Cole finished fourth. |
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South Africa also enjoyed a strong showing in the senior races, even though Kira Bester missed out on a third consecutive world title. The 2024 and 2025 champion finished second in Friday’s 20 km women’s race behind Australia’s Jemma Smith, a former back-to-back world champion.
Smith opted for a shallower route closer to shore and came away with the victory, while Bester led a group of South Africans who took a deeper line. The South African contingent still made its mark, with five more paddlers finishing in the top ten: Jade Wilson was fourth, Michelle Burn fifth, Melanie Van Niekerk eighth, Saskia Hockly ninth and Georgia Singe tenth. Hockly and Singe also secured second and third places respectively, in the under-23 category.
The men’s race followed a similar pattern, with Germany’s Gordan Harbrecht and France’s Pierre Vilella benefiting from their decision to paddle closer to shore. Australia’s defending champion Cory Hill finished third, with South African Hank McGregor just behind him in fourth. Eight South Africans placed in the top 15.
There was further success in Saturday’s mixed doubles events. Australian pair Jemma Smith and Hill claimed the senior title, with South African crews taking the next two places. Wilson and McGregor finished second, while Uli Hart and Singe came third. Bester and Kenny Rice narrowly missed the podium.
South Africa’s younger paddlers added more silverware. Holly Smith teamed up with Mocke to win the under-23 mixed doubles title, while Hanna Solomon and Vogt took gold in the junior mixed event. Isabella Strydom and Ryley Smith finished third in the junior category.
Other South African victories included Josh and Matt Fenn in the overall doubles race. McGregor won the men’s 45–49 age group, finishing fourth overall in the singles, while Burn claimed the women’s 40–44 age group title after placing fifth overall. Daniel Malan and Simon Willmott also won the 130–139 age group in the doubles.
Although Bester’s bid for a third straight world title fell short, the depth of South African talent was clear across the different races and age groups. With six gold medals and the Nations Cup secured, Team SA left Spain with a major statement of its strength in canoe ocean racing.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| POTCH GIRLS HIGH CELEBRATES KYLA MTHETHWA’S INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS |
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| Kyla Mthethwa has made South Africa proud after an impressive showing at the Majorette World Championships in Poland, where she competed against participants from 39 countries and earned her Senior Protea colours for majorettes. |
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The High School for Girls, Potchefstroom, celebrated Kyla’s achievements, highlighting the dedication and hard work that have helped her reach the international stage.
Kyla competed in four categories, finishing 12th in the world and third in South Africa in Mace Solo. She also placed sixth in Baton Flag and fifth in Mini Mace while competing in Classic Baton.
One of the highlights was a silver-medal finish in Mace, with the senior South African national team claiming second place overall to reach the podium for the first time this year.
Her school praised her positive attitude and commitment, saying her hard work had paid off and that she had given both the school and the country plenty of reasons to be proud.
The international achievement comes after another significant milestone for Kyla. About two weeks earlier, she received her Senior Protea colours, adding to her growing list of sporting accomplishments.
With her performances in Poland and recognition across her sporting pursuits, Kyla continues to show what dedication and a passion for sport can achieve.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| MEGAN KLEYNHANS ADDS AFRICAN TITLE TO GROWING LASER RUN SUCCESS |
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| The Grade 10 learner is the South African and African Girls U17 Laser Run champion and will now compete at the World Championships in Madeira. |
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Megan Kleynhans is having quite the year, and she’s not finished yet.
The Grade 10 learner from Hoërskool Randburg has added an African title to her growing collection of achievements after winning the Girls U17 division at the UIPM African Continental Laser Run Championships in Cape Town.
Kleynhans took gold on 3 October 2026, putting another major title next to her name as she continues to make her mark in the sport. |
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She is the 2026 South African Laser Run champion, the African Girls U17 Laser Run champion and the South African Girls U17 Triathle champion.
She is set to represent South Africa at the UIPM Biathle, Triathle and Laser Run World Championships in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal, later this month.
That means the Cape Town victory was less of a finish line and more of a very good warm-up for what comes next.
Her latest achievement has also had people in the Randburg community celebrating, with messages of support and plenty of good-luck wishes coming in as she prepares to take on the world stage.
It’s a pretty impressive run and one that shows just how far she has come in a sport that combines running and shooting, with Triathle adding swimming to the mix.
The African title is safely in the bag and the next stop is Madeira.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| ADAM LIPSCHITZ WINS INTERNATIONAL PEACE MARATHON IN SLOVAKIA |
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| The South African clocked 2:07:21 to win the International Peace Marathon and significantly improve his personal best. |
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Adam Lipschitz has gone from saying he could do something big in Košice to actually doing it.
The South African marathoner delivered a huge performance at the 103rd International Peace Marathon in Slovakia, crossing the finish line in 2:07:21 to claim the title and, in the process, significantly lower his personal best.
Lipschitz finished 32 seconds ahead of Kenya’s Abednego Cheruiyot, while last year’s champion, Moses Kipngetich Kemei, had to settle for third.
And the result did not exactly come out of nowhere.
“I said I would come back and that I could achieve something big here six months ago. I’ve had good preparation, and I’ve also performed well in races this season.” – Lipschitz told Slovak public broadcaster STVR. |
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Well, talk about backing yourself.
The race got off to a seriously quick start, with three pacemakers dragging the elite field through the early kilometres at around three minutes per kilometre. Despite warm conditions, the leading runners showed little interest in slowing down.
In fact, they reached the halfway turnaround around 45 seconds ahead of the pace set during last year’s record-breaking race.
That made the possibility of another course record look very real. But while Kemei’s record survived, Lipschitz certainly left his mark on the 2026 edition. The victory is another big milestone for a man who has been building quite a name for himself on and off the road.
There are only a handful of South African men who have run a marathon in under 2:10 this decade, and Lipschitz is part of that rather exclusive group.
Lipschitz founded the Social Runners Club, which has grown to more than 600 active members, and he is involved in organising three road-running events every year. That has made him a familiar figure in KwaZulu-Natal’s running community, both as an athlete and as someone helping create opportunities for other runners.
His outspoken personality has also made him a notable voice in the sport. As chair of the Social Runners Club, Lipschitz has attended KZN Athletics council meetings and has not been shy about sharing his views.
But if there was any doubt about what Lipschitz thought he was capable of, his latest result is a pretty convincing answer.
He arrived in Košice six months after predicting he could achieve something special. He leaves Slovakia as the International Peace Marathon champion.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| LAILAA EDWARDS HEADS TO MOROCCO WITH SOUTH AFRICA’S TABLE TENNIS FLAG |
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| The South African heads to Tangier for the ITTF Senior Africa Championships as she continues her international journey. |
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Johannesburg, South Africa (8 October 2026) – Lailaa Edwards is heading to Morocco with more than just a table tennis paddle in her bag.
The South African is set to represent the country at the ITTF Senior Africa Championships in Tangier, where she will take on some of the continent’s best players with another major opportunity waiting further down the road.
The championships form part of the qualification journey towards the 2027 World Table Tennis Championships Finals in Astana, Kazakhstan. |
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It is another step in a journey that started much closer to home.
Her love for table tennis began when she was 11, playing with her siblings and cousins in her aunt’s garage. What started as family fun eventually turned into something much more serious, with her first major breakthrough coming when she won a tournament at the Totomeng Table Tennis Club in Soweto.
More than a decade later, Edwards has become a familiar name in South African table tennis.
She has represented the country on the international stage and has shared the court with some of Africa and the world’s leading players. She was also part of the South African women’s team at the 2024 World Team Table Tennis Championships.
Her latest opportunity comes with the backing of the people and clubs who have been part of that journey, including Raiders Table Tennis Club, the Johannesburg Table Tennis Association and the South African Table Tennis Board.
And if there is one thing Edwards appears to have in abundance, it is patience.
Her calm and composed approach is one of her strengths, particularly when matches get tight and opponents start turning up the pressure. Rather than rushing the game, she has spoken about adapting her tactics and staying analytical when facing unfamiliar opponents.
That mindset will come in handy in Tangier. The trip is another reminder of the growing opportunities for South African players in a sport that does not always get the same spotlight as rugby, cricket or football.
But the local table tennis scene continues to produce athletes competing at continental and international level, while clubs and associations play an important role in developing the next generation.
Now it’s time to fight for every point and enjoy the opportunity to wear the green and gold.
There will be plenty of points to win and plenty of pressure to handle, but Edwards knows the drill. One point at a time.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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