Author: Tshegofatso Letsie
Four-time Japanese Grand Slam Champion, Naomi Osaka kicked off the Aukland Open in New Zealand, to an impressive start. She beat her Israeli opponent, Lina Glushko 6-4 6-4 in what was her first match since October this year. She suffered a back injury at the China Open and was forced to end her 2024 season prematurely. Although she felt like she had to “scrap a little for the first round” against Glushko, Osaka was pleased with the outcome. “I just kept trying to tell myself ‘one point at a time’ and try not to get discouraged. Thankfully, it came out…
The African Transformation Movement (ATM) has proposed for racism to be criminalized in South Africa. The party’s stance is in response to an incident which is reported to have taken place at Food Lover’s Market, in Sandton, where a white couple allegedly referred to another black couple as baboons. The video of the incident which has since gone viral sparked outrage on X. ATM spokesperson, Zama Ntshona said decisive action must be taken to address racists. “Racism in this country is a persistent issue, with incidents occurring in schools, universities and communities. The entitlement displayed by individuals who believe they…
The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NatJoints) has ramped up security at the border between South Africa and Mozambique, as post-election riots continue. Mozambique has been experiencing unrest after Frelimo, which is the governing party, was declared the winner of the disputed October elections. The protests have since intensified after the country’s apex court upheld the party’s victory. There have been growing calls for calm, including from SADC and the United Nations, as hundreds of people have already lost their lives while others were injured. As a response to concerns of an influx of refugees, particularly the nearly 6…
As the county approaches New Year’s Eve, the Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) has appealed to the public to use fireworks responsibly. The heightened use of fireworks this festive season is anticipated between 19:00 and 22:00 on regular days and from 23:00 to 01:00 on New Year’s Eve. EMS spokesperson Xolile Khumalo advised that caregivers must be present when children under the age of 16 light the fireworks. “Please ensure that parents supervise the use of fireworks. We also encourage you to lock pets away during this time,” said Khumalo. Fireworks are prohibited in public spaces like hospitals, old-age homes…
Police in the North West are seeking the assistance of the public, following the burning of the equipment estimated to the amount of R3 million, at the Makwassie Stadium, near Wolmaranstad. It is alleged that disgruntled attendees lit the stage, after Limpopo born singer, Makhadzi, did not pitch up. “Reports suggest that attendees of the Annual Fun Games and Music Festival were unhappy when the lead singer did not pitch up and went on a rampage. The stage and other equipment were burnt down to an estimated value of close to R3 million,” said police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh. She…
The King of Amapiano, Kabza de Small gave fans a soundtrack for Christmas Day, when he released a surprise drop. The single, Nasempini, features DJ Maphorisa, Spirit of Praise Gospel Choir, Ayanda Ntanzi, and music producer, Stakev. The Gospel-Amapiano fused song has been met with mixed reactions but is anticipated to grow bigger in its first week. Kabza’s ability to capture the hearts of Mzansi through his spiritually lifting music is undeniable. He achieved immense success with the track Imithandazo where he collaborated with Mthunzi, Sizwe Alakine, Young Stunna, Umthakathi Kush and DJ Maphorisa. The song didn’t just have people…
The South Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), has expressed concern on the numerous complaints it received, relating to cannabis related arrests. According to the Commission, the complaints are mostly from the Rastafari and cannabis-using community, despite the decriminalisation of the private use, cultivation and possession of cannabis in the country. “The SAPS directive recognises that neither legislation nor regulations prescribe the quantity of cannabis in the possession of/or cultivated by an adult that may be presumed to be dealing in cannabis, which is still unlawful. Therefore, as things stand, this directive directs that adults may not be arrested on the presumption…
US incoming-President, Donald Trump said he has a “warm spot” for social media platform, TikTok especially after it helped him gain young voters by 34% during this year’s Presidential elections. He made the assertion when asked about the looming ban against the Chinese video app owned by ByteDance. “We’ll take a look at TikTok. I used TikTok very successfully in my campaign. I won youth by 30%. All republicans lose youth, and I don’t know why. Maybe it’s changing. Last time we were down 30% with youth, this time we are up 35% and I use TikTok, so I can’t…
In a revealing glimpse into the interests of South Africans, Google has unveiled its annual analysis of top searches for 2024, showcasing the nation’s engagement with current affairs, entertainment, sports, and significant global events. With increases in both curiosity and search queries, the insights reflect a society thriving on the latest happenings, cultural shifts, and the legacies of notable figures. Notably, the report highlighted pivotal events that captured the attention of South Africans. The country’s National Elections, held on 29th May, emerged as a key focal point, reflecting the citizens’ appetite for political engagement. The tragic collapse of a building…
British singer Adele finds herself between a rock and a hard place with her hit single ‘Million Years Ago’, after Brazilian Judge Victor Torres at the Rio de Janeiro’s sixth commercial court, ordered its withdrawal globally, including on streaming platforms. This emanates from plagiarism allegations lodged by Brazilian composer, Toninho Geraes, who claims that the song was copied from his samba track called ‘Mulheres’ (Women), which was recorded by singer Martinho da Vila back in 1995. Geraes is reportedly suing for royalties to the tune of $160,000 and a songwriting credit on Adele’s 2015 track. The ruling also states that…