Author: Staff Writer
Young drivers are most at risk on South African roads—Volvo encourages smarter, safer decisions this Youth Day. Young drivers face the highest risk on South African roads, with high fatality rates and low seatbelt use, especially close to home. Volvo continues to prioritise safety, from pioneering the three-point seatbelt to advanced driver-assist technologies. This Youth Day, Volvo reminds new drivers that their choices matter most, because no safety feature is more powerful than a responsible driver. Youth Day in South Africa is a time to reflect, but also to look forward—a day that honours the bravery of the past while…
To commemorate Youth Month under the 2025 theme, ‘Skills for the Changing World – Empowering Youth for Meaningful Economic Participation’, Vodacom has launched a new data bundle for customers on the NXT LVL (pronounced next level) programme. Dubbed ‘Super Content’ and targeted especially for content creators, the new 25GB Super Content Bundle gives customers 5GB TikTok data; 5GB All Access data; 5GB YouTube data as well as 10GB of Night Owl data – all at R69 with a seven-day validity period. “This year, we saw it fitting to design and launch a bundle that not only aligns with the 2025…
The Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA), in partnership with the Karoo Hoogland Municipality, officially launched the Fraserburg Smart Skills Centre on 6 June 2025. This marks a significant step in bringing accessible, future-focused skills development to rural and underprivileged communities. The launch follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in January 2025, laying the foundation for a high-impact initiative aimed at closing the digital divide and equipping residents for opportunities in the digital and green economies. A Future-Ready Facility in the Heart of the Karoo The Fraserburg Smart Skills Centre is now fully operational, offering accredited digital…
WeThinkCode_, a leading South African tech academy, has been awarded $2 million in funding from Google.org. This grant will enable WeThinkCode_ to dramatically expand its Artificial Intelligence (AI) training programs, empowering 12,000 learners in South Africa and Kenya with critical AI skills for the rapidly evolving job market. Africa faces a significant digital skills gap; a recent SAP report highlights that 90% of companies in Africa are negatively impacted by a lack of AI skills, experiencing project delays, failed innovation, and an inability to take on new work. WeThinkCode_ has long been dedicated to bridging this gap by training unemployed youth from…
Telkom Group today announced the appointment of Beauty Apleni as Chief Executive Officer of Openserve, South Africa’s leading provider of wholesale infrastructure connectivity, effective 1 July 2025. She will drive the continuing growth and adoption of Openserve’s fibre network in pursuit of Telkom’s data-led strategy. She has over 25 years of experience in the ICT industry with 15 years of that in executive leadership specializing in formulating strategy, driving execution and operational excellence. Apleni held various roles at Telkom Group such as Telkom Consumer: Chief of Sales and Technology; Telkom Consumer: Chief Technology & Information Officer; Cybernest: Executive Service Delivery…
The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) has issued an alert regarding individuals impersonating Brokstock SA (Pty) Ltd, an authorised Financial Services Provider (FSP No. 51404). Fraudulent Activity Details Scammers: Zibu Masotobe Sibiya (WhatsApp: +27717684632) and Mike Mabuyakhulu (WhatsApp: +27794293027) Platforms: Operating via Telegram and WhatsApp groups named “Brokstock Beginner/s” Fake Banking Details: Account Name: Brockstockshares Bank: FNB Account Number: 62871907790 Email: [email protected] These fraudsters are luring victims to deposit funds into their fraudulent account under false pretenses. “Brokstock SA has confirmed these individuals are NOT associated with them, and any claims otherwise are entirely false,” the FSCA stated. How to Protect Yourself The FSCA urges the public to: Verify FSP authorization before investing—check the FSCA database. Confirm the FSP…
Many businesses have operations in South Africa and the UK; however, communication costs can quickly get out of hand and even become prohibitive if multinational businesses do not have a solution to comply with local, in-country call rates, explains Telviva Chief Commercial Officer Rob Lith. South African businesses face significant challenges when communicating in the UK, he says, especially in light of recent telecommunications regulatory changes in South Africa, which caused international call termination rates to increase 27-fold overnight. “As one can imagine, this made international communication prohibitively expensive for many businesses with teams sitting in multiple countries,” he says.…
The impact of non-compliance of relevant regulations can have a detrimental effect on all credit providers in South Africa. “The penalties and fines for non-compliance can ultimately cripple a business,” says Vaughn Hechter, Head of Customer Services: NuPay and Delter at Altron FinTech. “There is also the reputational risk, because nobody wants to do business with reputation of being a loan shark or a predatory lender.” Keeping up with complex local and global regulations like GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation), PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard), PSD2 (Payment Services Directive 2) and FICA (Financial Intelligence Centre Act) is…
Durban entrepreneur Shaun Naidu is suing Nedbank for R40 billion after being listed as a suspected fraudster for eight years, severely damaging his business and personal life, according to the Sunday Times report. Fraud Listing Discovery Naidu told the Sunday Times he first discovered the listing in 2015 when he tried to open a bank account and was flagged on the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS) database. “I was told I was flagged by Nedbank on the Shamwari database… Due to this listing, I couldn’t open a bank account at any banking institution,” Naidu said. Despite obtaining a police clearance certificate confirming no criminal record, Nedbank initially denied submitting the fraud indicator. Failed Resolutions & Legal…
Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane is under intense scrutiny amid suspicions that her Sector Education and Training Authorities (Seta) “panel” may be imaginary, plunging her deeper into controversy. According to a Sunday Times report, Nkabane—once hailed as one of the ANC’s rising stars—now faces a political firestorm over her aborted plan to appoint politically connected chairs to Setas. ANC Cronyism Allegations The scandal erupted when it was revealed that Nkabane’s proposed list was packed with ANC loyalists, including the son of Gwede Mantashe, Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy. The move sparked outrage, raising concerns about nepotism and lack of transparency in key government appointments. Defiant Stance in Parliament During a…
National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) Shamila Batohi has backtracked on her claim that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) had been “infiltrated,” following an urgent meeting with Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi. According to the Sunday Times, Kubayi summoned Batohi after her infiltration remarks raised serious concerns. The minister revealed that Batohi admitted to using “the wrong word” and clarified that her concerns were about individual prosecutors allegedly sabotaging cases: not systemic infiltration. Minister Kubayi’s Intervention Kubayi told the Sunday Times: “After the interviews of the NDPP, I met her yesterday [Friday] urgently, because if somebody says the NPA is held from doing its work I need to understand. It’s my…
A senior SAPS Crime Intelligence official, sought by the NPA over a multi-million Rand property scandal, has reportedly gone missing. The unit allegedly spent R45 million on irregular property purchases without proper approvals, triggering an investigation by the Inspector-General of Intelligence (IGI) – initiated after DA pressure. Major-General Philani Lushaba, Crime Intelligence’s CFO, failed to report for duty and is unreachable, just as the NPA’s Investigating Directorate sought to question him. The IGI’s probe focuses on two suspicious transactions: a R22.7m Pretoria boutique hotel and a R22.8m Durban commercial property, allegedly approved by Lushaba and Crime Intelligence head Maj-Gen Dumisani…
As the world faces a growing cancer burden, Life Healthcare continues to advance its treatment offering, with new technology constantly being introduced to diagnose, treat and manage cancer. The latest innovations offer patients renewed hope in treating brain tumours, enabling more precise removal, reducing the need for repeat surgeries, and increasing the chances of long-term survival and improved quality of life. “Life Healthcare is dedicated to providing cancer patients with the most advanced and compassionate care possible, placing patients at the centre of care,” said Life Healthcare Chief Medical Officer, Dr Karisha Quarrie. “Our investment in innovative oncology technology such…
OPPO has officially launched its most advanced smartwatch yet, the OPPO Watch X2, in South Africa. Combining precision health tracking, all-day battery life, and a sleek yet durable design, this premium wearable is built for those who balance work, fitness, and everyday life. Whether navigating boardrooms, gym sessions, or outdoor adventures, the Watch X2 keeps users connected, active, and in control. Elevated Design for Everyday Wear Encased in polished stainless steel with a premium titanium alloy bezel, the OPPO Watch X2 blends sophistication with rugged durability. Its 1.5-inch AMOLED display delivers crisp visuals with a 2200-nit peak brightness, ensuring clarity even in direct…
The Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA) has noted with concern the proliferation of fake news and misinformation surrounding the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act rollout. The Agency urges members of the public to exercise caution and verify information before sharing it, emphasising that official statements regarding the next phases of AARTO implementation will only be issued by the Department of Transport and or RTIA. The RTIA confirms that AARTO is currently operational only in the municipalities of Johannesburg and Tshwane. Any claims suggesting a wider national rollout at this stage are incorrect. Strengthening laws for road traffic compliance is paramount,…
Pineapple, the digital insurance provider known for its low-cost online car insurance and bold, unconventional campaigns, has welcomed the decision by the Advertising Appeals Committee (AAC) to overturn the Advertising Regulatory Board’s (ARB) initial ruling that one of its billboards was offensive and discriminatory. The ad at the centre of the ruling, which read “Battery go flat? Battery get jumped. Not a tsotsi. Pineapple!”, was part of a broader series using playful, minimalist messaging and pop culture references to show that car insurance doesn’t need to be complicated. A single consumer complaint triggered the ARB’s initial decision, which was later…
Vodacom Group now procures 100% of its purchased electricity from renewable sources, making it the first multi-national telecoms operator on the continent to reach this goal. This major milestone reflects Vodacom’s efforts to decarbonise, as part of its purpose-led commitment to protect the planet. To meet this target, Vodacom has several on-site renewable power installations, procures electricity through renewable power purchase agreements (PPAs), and purchases *renewable energy certificates (RECs). Vodacom’s total energy consumption reached 2 076 GWh in the past financial year, of which 1 275 GWh was purchased electricity. Of this, 906 GWh came from grid electricity, not own…
Whether from the comfort of their living room or an enchanted forest, audiences of all ages can experience the magic and music of Disney’s Snow White when the film streams exclusively on Disney+ from 11 June. The live-action retelling of Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs invites families and friends on a thrilling new cinematic adventure, one that also offers a charming stroll down memory lane. Just as audiences in 1937 were captivated by the magic of animation, today’s viewers can marvel at stunning visual effects that bring nature and fantasy vividly to life. Set to a soundtrack that blends original songs with fresh takes…
The Investing in African Mining Indaba (MI26), Africa’s most influential and transformative platform for mining leadership, investment, and innovation, has announced its 2026 theme, “Stronger together: Progress through partnerships.” This bold direction reflects the urgent need for collaboration across the continent to fast-track untapped growth opportunities across the entire mining value chain and unlock downstream industrialisation industries. With the world’s transition to clean energy accelerating, Africa stands at a crossroads. The continent holds approximately 55% of global cobalt reserves, with the DRC producing 70% of the world’s supply, nearly half of global manganese reserves, and an estimated 90% of platinum group metals,…
McDonald’s South Africa today announced the appointment of Max Oliva as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 July 2025. Oliva brings more than three decades of executive experience in retail and supply chain management, with a strong track record of delivering operational excellence, building high-performing teams, and driving sustainable growth. He was selected following a rigorous executive search process aimed at identifying a leader with the vision, discipline, and commercial acumen to guide the business into its next phase of transformation. His appointment comes at a pivotal time for McDonald’s South Africa, as the brand continues to evolve in…
The Drinks Federation of South Africa (DF-SA) has released new research revealing a sharp increase in the illicit alcohol market, which has grown by 55% in volume since 2017. The study, conducted by independent research firm Euromonitor International, highlights the escalating impact of illegal alcohol on public health, consumer safety, and national tax revenue. “This study is a wake-up call,” said Dr. Shamal Ramesar, Head of Research at DF-SA. “Communities are being exposed to harmful, unregulated alcohol, and the country is losing billions in revenue. It is urgent that government, industry, and civil society work together to tackle this issue…
Salesforce, the #1 AI CRM, has announced the return of its Agentforce World Tour to Johannesburg. Today, the Kyalami International Convention Centre will host this premier event, featuring Agentforce, Data Cloud and Customer 360. Attendees will explore how businesses can deploy autonomous AI agents to enhance customer success and operational efficiency. Unlocking the Future with Agentic AI The event’s central theme, “Agentic AI: Unlock Your Digital Workforce with Agentforce,” highlights the transformative potential of AI in business. With $6 trillion in global tasks potentially automatable, Agentforce represents a new era of enterprise productivity. Built on the Salesforce Platform, Agentforce enables businesses to: Deploy AI agents across departments Automate repetitive tasks Drive cost savings…
By 2050, the global market for non-military drones is expected to grow significantly, transforming how goods and people move across cities and rural landscapes. In South Africa, where road access remains limited in many regions and urban congestion chokes daily logistics, drones present an opportunity to leapfrog legacy infrastructure and reimagine mobility from the sky down in both scenarios. That’s the vision of Professor Filippo Tomasello, a leading global expert on drone regulation and safety, who will deliver a plenary address titled “Unleashing the Growth Potential of Drones” at the 43rd Annual Southern African Transport Conference (SATC). With decades of…
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) is facing challenges in stopping unauthorised Starlink services in the country, despite declaring the satellite internet provider illegal. Starlink Operating Without Approval ICASA Chairperson Mothibi Ramusi confirmed that Starlink, owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has been operating unlawfully in South Africa. Authorities recently confiscated equipment from ICASAsePush, a company in the Eastern Cape that was distributing Starlink technology. Ramusi stated: “Starlink has been operating illegally in SA. We have recently confiscated equipment belonging to SpaceX from a company called ICASAsePush.” Thousands of Illegal Starlink Kits in Circulation Although ICASA has not released 2025 data, estimates from November 2023 suggest: Over 14,000 Starlink kits are…
The Road Accident Fund (RAF) faces mounting uncertainty following the suspension of its CEO, Collins Letsoalo, amid a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) probe into a controversial R79 million office lease deal in Johannesburg. Letsoalo was placed on special leave with immediate effect, raising questions about governance and financial management at the embattled state entity. Letsoalo Breaks Silence In an exclusive interview with #Newzroom405’s Xoli Mngambi, Letsoalo addressed his suspension and the allegations against him. He maintains his innocence, claiming that certain parties are attempting to portray him as “corrupt and incompetent.” Why Was the RAF CEO Suspended? The RAF Board suspended Letsoalo on 27 May 2025 following a preliminary SIU report implicating…