WEEKLY SA Mirror 41st ED

FRANCE WANDA’S CREDIT BUREAU’S WELCOME EURO FASHION R200M SECURITY STINT WONDER BREACH HEADACHE 16BAFANA 7page 4page page Friday 18 March 2022 D E Q L www.weeklysamirror.news MIRRORWEEKLY SA Insight to connect the dots... RAMAPHOSA’S MILITARY VETERANS SWEETENER TURNS SOUR See p2

2 WEEKLY SA MIRROR NEWS Friday 18 March 2022 EX-COMBATANTS UP IN ARMS OVER BENEFITS’ VETTING PROCESS FLAWED: Deputy President David Mabuza given 24-hour ultimatum to address military veterans’ grievances… ALUTA: A military veteran in full song outside the department of defence offices in Pretoria By Isaac Moledi ans is critical in ensuring an effective, efficient and its members of holding hostage Defence and Mili- While the MKMVA supported the establish- President Ramaphosa’s measures to placate the seamless delivery of the benefits as outlined in the tary Veterans Minister Modise, her deputy Thabang ment of the database cleansing and verification increasingly restive military veterans have hit Section 5 of the Military Veterans Act 18 of 2011”. Makwetla and the Minister in the presidency Mon- committee, it however denounced the committee’s massive snags, heightening tensions between dli Gungubele. chairperson Major-General Mashoala, saying “they government and ex-combatants instead. “We wish to clarify that the Database and Veri- recently noted the inhuman treatment which mili- fication panel is independent of the Ministry of In a statement today, the LSWV expressed its tary veterans are subjected to by the chairperson of Raising the temperatures between the two par- Defence and Military Veterans. It forms part of the support for the march and demands raised by the the committee Major Gen. Mashoala during inter- ties are the unfolding database cleansing and verifi- Presidential Task Team, led by Deputy President Gauteng MKMVA, adding their complaints formed views with the verification committee. cation processes, which have sparked anger among Daid Mabuza,” the defence ministry said in a state- part of the organisation’s overall thorny issues they sections of the ex-combatants who have dismissed ment. have been raising with the government. The MK- “It is evident that Maj. Gen. Mashoala only it as “flawed and unfair”. MVA’s petition, which was addressed to Mabuza, recognises the military training and contributions According to the ministry, since March 2022, demands that representatives of recognised mili- of those MK veterans who were formally trained Today, members of Umkhonto we Sizwe Mili- 138 military veterans had been confirmed as bona tary veterans’ associations be coopted into the con- outside South Africa in the MK camps in exile, and tary Veteran (MKMVA) in Gauteng marched on fide members of either MK and or APLA respec- troversy-ridden committee. It also demanded the in countries such as the former USSR and German the offices of the Department of Defence and Mili- tively. “We wish to dispel any notion in the public immediate appointment of members of the Appeal Democratic Republic (GDR). This is an elitist, tary Veterans in Pretoria, giving Deputy President mind that government will change its verification Board to deal with the review of all administrative exclusionist, self-serving and extremely narrows David Mabuza 24 hours to address their demands. criteria in order to address individual cases,” said decisions by the department relating to the process. approach that does not reflect the realities of the Their demands include that the disputed database the ministry’s spokesperson Cornelius Monama. Other grievances concern the apparent exclusion of armed struggle and the true nature of MK.” cleansing and verification committee be recon- scores of ex-combatants, members of self-defence stituted and independent credible individuals ap- “Should anyone feel aggrieved by any conduct units (SDUs) as well as members of the internal The Military Veterans Act, Act 18 of 2011, de- pointed. Tensions between ex-combatants and the of its members or the outcome of the verification MK machinery and other operatives in the country. fines a military veteran as: “A South African citizen department have been growing recently, with the process, these should be brought to the attention of who rendered military service to any of the military MKMVA demanding the immediate removal of the authorities,” Monama said. “In line with the resolutions of the November organisations, which were involved on all sides of chairperson of the database cleansing and verifica- 2002 MK National General Council (NGC), which South Africa’s war”. This definition, according to tion committee, Major-General Enoch Mashoala, Meanwhile, Mabuza, who chairs the presiden- resolved on the position of Self Defence Units MKMVA, clearly includes all of those who ren- who they accused of not acting in the interest of tial task team (PTT), was appointed by President (SDU’s), and those who were part of the internal dered services, not only those who received specif- ex-combatants. Cyril Ramaphosa to look into long-standing is- machinery of MK, as well as other MK operators, ic training. Meanwhile, LSWV roped in ANC and sues affecting military veterans. He was to nego- it was resolved that a definition of military veteran MK veteran Mathews Phosa to interdict President But the defence ministry stuck to their guns, re- tiate with the Liberation Struggle War Veterans be formulated in order to resolve the unfortunate Cyril Ramaphosa if he failed to consult them in dis- iterating its confidence in the integrity and rigour of (LSWV), which represents non-statutory forces of conditions created during the CODESA negotia- cussions and proceeded with payouts of reparation the committee’s verification process, saying, “The MK, the PAC’s APLA and AZAPO’s AZANLA in tions and integration process,” MKMVA said in a and other benefits including pensions to military creation of a credible database for Military Veter- that regard. However, the negotiations hit rock- statement. veterans, on April 1, 2020. bottom earlier this year when the PTT withdrew from negotiating with the LSWV, accusing some of WAR-FUELLED By Isaac Moledi sequent sanctions imposed on Russia have left ENERGY The Institute for Risk Management (IRMSA) diesel reserves in a precarious state on a global CRISIS POSES has this week joined other high-profile South scale. Considering this, he says South Africa’s GRAVE African organisations and individual, warning heavy reliance on diesel reserves to maintain the RISKS TO SA that a stage eight load shedding and potential electrical grid could mean that Eskom will be ECONOMY fuel rationing pose a serious energy risk to the forced to announce Stage 8 load shedding in the country’s economy. near future. In addition, reports are also suggest- GHASTLY: To avert disaster, ing that South Africa could introduce a price cap government must fast-track unbundling In its 2022 Risk report released yesterday, and limit the amount of fuel sold to motorists to of incumbent utilities and bring in new IRMSA warned however that a stage 8 load shed- mitigate the impact of rising oil prices because of market players ding and fuel rationing poses a serious large- the war in Ukraine. scale disruption of the country’s economy. The risks associated with this energy-threat scenario Meanwhile the IRMSA report warns that have been outlined in IRMSA’s 2022 Risk Re- factors such as low productivity levels/plant port under the heading “Large scale disruption availability, slow progress on unbundling/ priva- of economic activity relying on stable supply of tisation, prohibitive cost of alternatives and poor utilities”. capacity/competencies could result in “a com- plete implosion of the infrastructure required to Earlier this week, researchers at the Coun- keep the economy going at a rate required to fund cil for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) the rebuilding of the country, resulting in further warned that South Africa faces a growing energy declines in economic growth, service delivery crisis, as ongoing loadshedding problems risk and social cohesion.” being exacerbated by rising international diesel costs. The report also emphasises that “the stable supply of utilities such as water and electricity In its presentation to parliament on Tuesday, are essential for all entities to contribute effec- the CSIR noted that 2021 was the worst year on tively to the economy. If these are disrupted on a record for load shedding, with 1,169 hours of out- large scale and consistently, then SA will fail to ages and 2,521 GWh of energy shed. It added that secure much-needed job-creation and economic 2022 is already off to a poor start with 261 hours growth-based investments.” The dwindling sup- of outages to date and 554 GWh of energy shed. ply of diesel needed to maintain Eskom’s opera- tions fits this worst-case scenario. Data from the CSIR shows that increased us- age of diesel-fired peakers cost the South Afri- In response to this scenario, the report pro- can power system an additional R10.8 billion in poses a series of risk treatment options and op- 2021 alone. Considering Eskom’s operating costs portunities. These include the fast-tracking of un- of R196 billion in 2021, these additional costs bundling incumbent utilities, thereby increasing equate to a 7.5% increase in operating expendi- transparency and bringing in new market players, ture. accelerating the 100MW self-generating initia- tive, and having country-level plans for modern Eskom’s Chief Operating Officer Jan Ober- technologies that have the potential to be local- holzer is reported as saying the utility is currently ised and spur economic growth through projects using nine million litres of diesel a day to keep such as green hydrogen and storage. its systems running, and the war as well as sub-

Friday 18 March 2022 NEWS 3WEEKLY SA MIRROR DJs Bandile, Mxolisi, Banele and Tanzania’s DJ Senorita, catch up . On the decks, the pretty DJ Thuli P BOOGIE TIME AT TABOO Pearl Thusi and David Tlale laugh at a secret Casper Nyovest and Pearl Thusi joke TKZee’s Zwai Bala and Kabelo Bouga Luv Mabalane’s kwaito performance evoked nostalgia. COMPILED: Gugu Sibiya. PICS: Sipho Maluka. Taboo’s glittering reopening in Sandton, Jozi, drew the who’s who of showbiz to come to mingle and play. Taboo flight 22’s bar tenders showed up as pilots with waitress- es dolled up as cabin attendants. As usual model Babalwa Mneno was dressed Mathew Menser and Tanzania’s DJ Senorita to kill

4 WEEKLY SA MIRROR NEWS Friday 18 March 2022 RUSSIA HAS BEEN OUR MIRROBRriefs RELIABLE FRIEND – EX-COMBATANTS STAND-OFF: Ukraine has been the weakest Nazi Azov Battalion in Ukraine. link in the global power politics between the According to the statement of the LSWV na- West and Russia, says military veterans’group… tional task team, Yanukovych’s sin was to refuse By WSAM Reporter MP. In a statement, LSWV-SA said they had been the US-led Ukraine-European Association, instead SENZO MEYIWA’S TRIAL MUST The Liberation Struggle War Veterans of South following the global politics, the fall of the Berlin chose a Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union. NOT BE DELAYED - JUDGE Africa (LSWVA-SA) has put its weight and sup- Wall and the subsequent crumbling of the Union port behind Russia, saying the country has been of the Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) which “The pro-European Union (EU) and pro NATO The delays in the trial of murdered Orlando a reliable friend during the time of need. led to the emergence of the United States (US) led civil disobedience took place and Yanukovych was Pirates goalkeeper, Senzo Meyiwa, must be avoid- unipolar world. humiliated out of office by the US-funded protests ed and the lawyer representing four of the accused “Some of the trademarks of our struggle for and exiled to Russia. A pro-Nato administration in the case must indicate his readiness for the trial liberation can be directly attributed to the evolu- “This has been the world where only the Unit- took over and Ukraine became a security threat to on or before March 28 in order to proceed with the tion of both Russia and the Union of the Soviet So- ed States dominated the world and created global Russia and NATO and the Minsk Agreement was trial on April 11 this year.. cialist Republic (USSR), in all this they became a anarchy because it had no competition. The fact undermined, the sovereignty of Russia was now shoulder to cry on and during the time of the liber- that the US and the NATO attempts to encircle compromised; and no country wants this.” This was said by the Judge during the brief ation struggle, we cannot say the same about some Russia by buying former USSR countries with appearance of the four accused in the Gauteng of the “friends” of our country and main players in “aid” and some forms of incentives does not go LSWV said the Russian-speaking Donbass High Court in Pretoria last week Thursday. The our economy and politics,” the organization said unnoticed.” region, where Yanukovych come from, faced re- four who also informed the court that they had in a statement. prisals and deaths for being the Russian speaking terminated the services of their previous lawyer The organisation condemned Ukraine, saying region, and the economic exclusion became too and were now being represented by Advocate Earlier this week, Social Development Min- the country had shown to be the weakest link in much to bear. “Citizens of Donetsk and Luhansk Malesela Teffo, are Muzikawukhulelwa Sthemba ister Lindiwe Zulu also showed her gratitude to- the global power politics between the West and in the Donbass Region were then forced to secede Sibiya, 34, Bongani Sandiso Ntanzi, 30, Mthobisi wards Russia, saying to Members of Parliament: Russia. “Today’s events can be traced back to the from Ukraine, or perish under the neo-Nazi admin- Prince Ncube,36, and Mthokoziseni Ziphozonke “Yes, I studied in Russia. events of 2013 to 2014 where US funded the pro- istrations. The world can see through these Cold Maphisa, 35. test against the democratically elected President of War tactics of the US-led NATO.” I wouldn’t have studied in Russia had I not Ukraine President Yanukovych. National Prosecuting Authority’s North Gaut- been prosecuted and thrown out of the borders of The statement says after the Cold War, the eng Regional Spokesperson, Lumka Mahanjana SA and found myself in the cold, not because I “The Euromaidan Protest and civil disobedi- Warsaw Treaty Organisation (Warsaw Pact), of- said in a statement that Teffo had told the court wanted to be there, simply because apartheid made ence, the Orange Revolution, saw the death of ficially disbanded. “Today in 2022 history shows that he had submitted representations to the State it difficult for us,” she said to the applause of some more than 108 citizens and the undermining of that this Warsaw Pact was a counterbalance to for the discontinuation of the criminal case against President Yanukovych and the rise of the Neo- NATO and it should not have disbanded, all be- the four accused. He also wanted the perjury case cause NATO, on the other side, did not disband, against six of the witnesses who were in the house instead it grew stronger and moved to gain more when Meyiwa was murdered, to be continued countries closer to Russia. with. “Ukraine became a pawn in all this. NATO is Meyiwa was mysteriously shot and killed provocatively expanding towards Russia, setting while visiting his girlfriend, Kelly Khumalo at military bases all over Asia. This is sheer under- her home in Vosloorus, Ekurhuleni on October 26, mining and provocati0on,” LSWV statement said. 2014. A number of high profile names have been linked to the crime ever since amid concerns from CREDIT BUREAU “No organisation is immune against cyber- family and friends of the victim who accused the MULLS OVER attacks and the Department of Justice recently police of dragging their feet in arresting the cul- announced that it was a victim of a cybercrime,” prits. – Monk Nkomo HACKERS’ R200M- RANSOM DEMAND H Van Schalkwyk says in a separate incident, SIU GEARS UP TO RECOVER STO- Debt-IN Consultants, professional debt recovery LEN R2 BILLION RISK: Looming spectre that every company solutions partner to many South African financial that holds personal information is a potential services institutions, announced on 22 Septem- The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is awaiting target of hackers…. ber that a ransomware attack by cyber criminals an adjudication by the Special Tribunal on cases resulted in a significant data breach of consumer that could recover at least R2 billion which has By WSAM Reporter and employee personal information. been looted from public coffers. This after the Special Tribunal ordered software company SAP Yesterday ITWeb reported that the credit bu- Manie van Schalkwyk, CEO of the Southern “It is suspected that consumer and personal to pay back at least R413 million to the Depart- reau, TransUnion South Africa, is in an ongo- African Fraud Prevention Service Banking information of more than 1.4 million South Af- ment of Water and Sanitation (DWS) after a li- ing battle with a hacker group that is demand- ricans was compromised through the Debt-IN at- censing and support agreement between the two ing a $15 million (R223 million) ransom over “How significant is the risk? It is estimated tack in April last year. The breach only came to parties was declared unconstitutional and invalid. four terabytes of compromised data, reports that there are 17 billion cyber-attacks that take light last week, he says. According to SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kgany- IT Web. place around the world every day, not all being ago, the judgment serves as a warning to errant successful,” he says. Van Schalkwyk points out that the TransUn- public servants and private companies. The hacker group, going by the name ion breach is concerning as the records of 54 N4aughtysecTU, which claims to hail from Bra- Over the past two years, South African com- million South Africans may have been compro- “The SIU and DWS welcome the order by the zil, is alleging it breached TransUnion South panies have been reporting that they have been mised. “In a country where identity fraud is com- Special Tribunal as it sends a strong message to Africa and accessed 54 million personal records victims of cyber-attacks and data breaches. He mon practice, this is extremely concerning. It is officials and companies doing business with the of South Africans. Speaking to ITWeb via Tel- says some of these breaches included the com- critical that consumers act now before significant state that collusion and unethical business practice egram, the hacker group claims the information it promise of personal information of consumers. fraud is unknowingly committed on their behalf. will not be rewarded,” said Kganyago. is in possession of includes anything from credit scores, banking details and ID numbers. The last significant data compromise in 2020 He said the outcome of the Special Tribunal where more than 20 million records were com- order was a continuation of implementation of TransUnion South Africa has issued a state- promised with another credit bureau, the SAFPS the SIU investigation outcomes and consequence ment confirming that a criminal third-party ob- saw a rise of impersonation of more than 300%, management to recover financial losses suffered tained access to an isolated South African server, says Van Schalkwyk. “As a society, it is im- by state institutions. through misuse of an authorised client’s creden- portant that we move towards creating a world tials. where the fight against fraud becomes protective “There are other matters enrolled in the Spe- and proactive. cial Tribunal which are still awaiting adjudication Manie van Schalkwyk, CEO of the Southern to the combined value of R2.1 billion and will re- African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS says We need to protect consumers and this needs sult in further recoveries for the state,” he said. this alarming news is further indication that every to be done in a proactive manner. We cannot al- company that holds personal information is a po- ways be reactive when it comes to fraud,” says Kganyago further said that department offi- tential target. He says the consumer desperately Van Schalkwyk. cials who were involved in the dodgy SAP con- needs an extra layer of protection on their identity tracts would not escape scrutiny, but face possible against criminals who will turn their lives upside Dalene Deale, executive head of Secure disciplinary action. – Frank Maponya down without a second thought. Citizen, says data breaches have been on the rise globally and South Africa has seen unprecedent- ed increases in the number of cyber victims. Deale says Secure Citizen was creat- ed through a collaboration with SAFPS and OneVault in response to a rapid growth in identity theft following online fraud. “Fraudsters do not discriminate. As we con- tinuously move towards the adoption of a digital and more importantly ‘touchless’ era, the plat- form for fraud increases,” Deale says. “Consumers can register for a Digital Protec- tive Registration and take action today to prevent fraudsters from having their way with your birth right. Your identity shouldn’t be used by anyone but you. And the service is at no cost to you,” says Deale. The SAFPS’ Protective Registration is for free. If a member of the public wants to become proactive in the fight against fraud, visit the web- site

Friday 18 March 2022 CONSUMER & LEGAL MATTERS 5WEEKLY SA MIRROR Consumer Eye AWARD-WINNING CONSUMER EDITOR LOOKS 060 936 2673 INTO YOUR COMPLAINTS TRUSTEES ACCUSED OF FAILURE TO ADHERE TO Builders cleaning the bricks they reused instead of the new ones POLICIES IGNORE: The trustees ignored a cheaper quotation in preference to an expensive one By Thuli Zungu The lowest quotation The trustees of Casa Mia Body Corporate are for the L-shape wall was accused of unprofessional behaviour by alleg- R19 412 but the chairper- edly misusing the owners’ money, not properly son allegedly opted for maintaining the property and appointing a the one of R23 869, says caretaker who does not qualify for the position. Makam. “Their judgment has caused the owners Questioning these discrepancies has allegedly about R5 000 more and caused Envoy Makam, 54, of Centurion his job as they fired me as a caretak- a caretaker at Casa Mia Body Corporate, he says. er for questioning this,” he says. Makam says The current caretaker has allegedly been il- the body corporate is not legally appointed as he does not reside or own only the business of hous- This wall cost the body corporate members R24 000 property at Casa Mia. He is presently employed permanently by a security company that is render- ing owners who live in the and clearing of storages became an issue at Casa Makam says the trustees chose not to answer ing security services for the complex. scheme, but an ongoing business of the invest- Mia Body Corporate. and address his concerns involving the gardener ment of the body corporate members. He says section 3 of the Sectional Title who did not want to cooperate with him. The gar- “It is impossible for the security personnel to He says the trustees must always keep their Schemes Management Act (STSMA} sets out dener used to change the daily schedule which render both services optimally and to the best in- fingers on the pulse of the financial and adminis- what body corporate costs the trustees must take he presented to him on a daily basis making his terest of the company,” according to Makam. trative affairs of the scheme. into account when budgeting for the levy fund. work unbearable. Makam alleged that the chair- “You don’t have to be a banker or an account- This includes repairs and maintenance to the person blamed him for the poor communication. He says his misery started when the compa- ant to realise the importance of prudent financial common property, but their property barely re- ny’s swimming pool wall was falling apart. The management, while the managing agent attends ceives proper maintenance. “The grass condition The trustees has allegedly appointed a securi- main reason for the wall falling is that it was not to the nitty gritty affairs of the daily affairs of has deteriorated to a state that it became a bush. ty guard who allegedly does not even meet the re- built to standard as the mortar was badly mixed the scheme. It is the trustees who ultimately au- It took two months to organize petrol for a grass quirements as he does not reside in the complex. and did not have enough cement, Makam says. thorise body corporate expenditure provided it cutter machine “ says Makam. says. falls within their authority in terms of the Act,” Rotten poles were reported last year before he The chairperson has also been accused of can- The wall posed a danger to the residents and Makam says. was a caretaker but nothing has been done to date celling meetings at the eleventh hour when called the trustees were required to fix it to avert inju- The chairperson allegedly reinvented the and the property gets damaged because of negli- to answer the state of dilapidation of the prop- ries in December last year. “As a caretaker, the wheel by requesting the newly appointed manag- gence. erty despite the owners paying their levies every trustees instructed me to procure three quotations ing agent - Trafalgar, to procure three other quo- Inconsistencies in terms of approval process- month without fail. for a company that could construct an L-shaped tations and then presented the fourth one, their es they employed and bringing exorbitant quota- wall, which I did,” Makam says. The trustees al- favoured contractor, which is not even on the Tra- tions behind the back door and later blame me for Makam says Management rule 26 of the ST- legedly ignored his quotations and soon thereafter falgar database. He submitted that their quote was costing the company, is an insult, said Makam. SMA specifically says that a body corporate must the chairperson, Calvin Matlou, brought his own most affordable. ‘’Subsequently I was served with the letter of ter- keep proper books of accountability by recording quotation of R23 869 which was not comparable “From November until January the trustees mination of my service after I questioned the trus- all its income expenditure, asserts and liability. to the quotations he brought. could not decide to appoint a builder, leaving resi- tees of value for money regarding the built pool dents with no access to the pool,” says Makam. wall. ‘’At one stage it took two months to pay a When all three quotations were sent on De- Although the managing agent instructed the “As an owner I was basically fired for ques- service provider I have procured to do repairs cember 2, 2021 to the trustees to decide on the trustees and the chairperson to use the contractors tioning their wrongs, and the chairperson in his and when I asked the trustees about the Service best offer to build an L shaped wall, they changed that are on their database, they instead opted for termination letter claims that I submitted unrelia- Level Agreement with regards to the payment the specification and only one side of the wall was the one that was not on the database. ble quotations for approval versus invoice amount of invoices, I was ignored.” Koketso Matimbe, built. “I guess this is a question of Animal Farm after the work is done,” says Makam. Portfolio Manager of Trafalgar Property Manage- situation here where others are untouchable for The chairperson is actually the one who is al- ment who responded on behalf of the Casa Mia “It shouldn’t have cost the company R23 000 the wrongs they do,” Makam says. Maintenance, legedly costing the company with his intentions. Body Corporate , said the trustees reserved their to build one side of the wall and the contractor right to comment. did not supply new bricks but recycled old bricks and by implication the quotation should have “This matter was discussed accordingly and been revised further to save the company more concluded that the Trustees reserve their right not money,” Makam says. to comment herein,” says Matimbe.

6 WEEKLY SA MIRROR SKILLS DEVELOPMENT Friday 18 March 2022 IKUSASA SKILLS DEVELOPMENT CAREER GUIDE PRESIDENTIAL the number of youth assistants that schools can the COVID 19 pandemic in volatile, complex and YOUTH accommodate and the budgetary requirements as ambiguous circumstances by swiftly adopting well as the value added by assistants in schools. It and implementing a business unusual approach to EMPOWERMENT was decided that some candidates no longer meet achieve the twin goals of rescuing the education INITIATIVE CREATES the requirements to remain in the programme, sector and providing much needed employment therefore, not everyone will continue into Phase to youths. 580 000 JOBS III,” according to the DBE. The initiative was implemented under strin- Laud: The department of education lauds Upon the youth’s exit of the programme, the gent timelines with great efficiency. “The Depart- partners involved in training youth assistants department, through eCubed Technologies will ment wishes to acknowledge the contribution of provide exit packages which may include: how to the partner SA Youth in the efficient processes By Isaac Moledi in the Presidency, Rudi Dicks, the first phase of build a CV, service letter and information on other implemented for recruitment of the youth both in The Department of Basic Education (DBE) the Basic Education Employment Initiative is one opportunities that the youth may access. Phase I and II. The initiative has positioned the says the Phase III of the Presidential Youth of the biggest public employment programmes Basic Education Sector as a vehicle for address- Empowerment Initiative (PYEI) in the Basic South Africa has experienced. “It is worth noting that some of the youth who ing systemic sectorial challenges and assisted Education sector is set to begin on April 1, were initially part of the cohort in Phase I and II government in making strides towards a post- 2022. At least 300 000 young people were em- have since found employment elsewhere; regis- COVID-19 future.” ployed through the programme from December tered for further studies or left the programme to This follows the successful implementation of 2020 to the end of April 2021 when the COV- pursue other opportunities. The PYEI has, in this The department believes that the initiative Phase II of the initiative which has been imple- ID-19 pandemic wreaked havoc on the economy, regard, fulfilled one of its mandates, that of being has assisted the sector by providing capacity to mented since November 1, 2021. The programme Dicks said. “This included 22 000 schools across the creation of pathways to further opportunities schools to manage the impact of COVID-19 on comes to an end at the end of this month with South Africa and every single community was af- and success for the youth,” the department said. schooling, supported teachers and learners in more than 280 000 youth assistants being on the fected, 320 000 young people were brought into classrooms, whilst supporting the Basic Educa- programme, according to the department. the system. The DBE programme is the flagship, All schools are required to complete and sub- tion Sector as it repositions, re-imagines and re- it is one of the most important programmes and mit the details of all the youths, meeting the re- boots the future beyond COVID-19. The initiative forms part of government’s one of the largest.” quirements to be transitioned from Phase II into employment stimulus package which contributed Phase III. A type-form is provided for this purpose The department says it wants to acknowledge to the creation of at least 580 000 employment To ensure continuity, maintain stability and through the Provincial Education Department the partners that are working tirelessly in training opportunities, which include sustained jobs and sustained impact in schools, the department says (PEDs). The completion of the type-form is thus the youth assistants in the identified sector priority livelihoods. Paddy Padayachee, DBE Deputy Di- the youth appointed in schools as at February 28, mandatory. areas such as Mathematics, Science and Technol- rector General, says the first phase of the initiative 2022 will be offered new fixed-term contracts be- ogy (MST) and other subjects of the programme. was deliberately youth - driven. ginning April 2022 until August 30, 2022. According to the department, all schools are required to have their youth assistants captured on “The Department urges all the successful According to the Head of project management “Since the education sector has now returned the National Data Management System (DMS) as young people to adhere to all the conditions of to full capacity, the department had to consider this is the official management and reporting sys- their hiring and to cooperate with school princi- tem for the initiative. It says the systems depart- pals to whom they report. The Department wishes ment wants to acknowledge Bhelela Technologies to express its sincere appreciation for the success- for providing this data management system at no ful implementation of the Presidential programme cost to the sector. The youths remaining in the both in Phase I and II: to the Provincial Education programme will be given an opportunity to use Departments, districts, circuits, school manage- the skills they have acquired through the training ment teams, school governing bodies, teachers, already provided to them in Phase II to support learners, the entire schooling communities and teaching and learning in our schools. social and civil society partners and internal de- partmental officials.” “With Term 1 of the 2022 academic year end- ing on 17 March 2022 for inland schools and 24 A beneficiary of the programme, Joudon March 2022 for coastal schools, PEDs should ur- Rooi, said the programme came to his aid when gently communicate to schools on the termination he had lost his job in Saudi Arabia and was forced of Phase II contracts and the commencement of to come back home with no plan on how he would Phase III contracts for Assistants. PEDs should is- earn money. sue circulars and all relevant documents for Phase III to schools in that regard. This will assist in “I was at home; it was strict lockdown, with providing certainty to the youth,” according to the no job. The programme was a blessing in disguise. department. I got the opportunity…and it was amazing. It has changed my life immensely. I became financially The department said it accepted the chal- independent and I finally got the opportunity to lenge to help mitigate the devastating impact of study.” PERSISTENCE, li’s belief in me that I was given the opportunity to RESILIENCE, prove that I am a worthy leader. But I am a servant SELF-BELIEF leader which is somewhat different to the more tra- PROPELLED ditional leader.” PILLAY TO SUCCESS Ingredient 4: A mentor who believes in you. HUNGRY: Pillay is always hungry for more and Pillay has been able to remain true to her unique has an appetite for excellence style of servant leadership because of the inspira- tional mentor who first believed in her. “Some days Sam Pillay, Sales Operations Director of Ingredient 1: An appetite for excellence. then through Administration and then Creditors can be hard and I am sure it’s natural to sometimes First Group Hotels and Resorts About 20 years ago, she worked for a spa and ended up in a managerial role in the Finance wonder if you’re investing yourself in the right By Isaac Moledi Department. Whenever an opportunity presented place, but I’ve never had to wonder. Rioma has al- owned by Rioma Cominelli (who is also a direc- itself, Pillay says she grabbed it with both hands. ways believed in me and I am hopeful that I can Sam Pillay, sales operations director of First tor at First Group). Between Pillay proving herself continue that legacy and be the reason other people Group Hotels and Resorts, was born into a hum- and Cominelli recognizing her potential, the magic She soon found herself fully immersed in spe- discover the best version of themselves, through ble and broken home, and started off on what started to happen. Pillay says she performed every cial projects that had a profound impact on the my belief in them.” many would say is ‘the back foot’. task to the highest standard and continues that way business’ success and suddenly the question was Ingredient 5: A great reason WHY. even today. “It didn’t matter how menial the job, being asked : Did this little woman have what it As she recalls, she could have allowed this to I would strive to do it better than it had ever been takes to cross the chasm into executive leadership? At the end of every 16-hour work day, there has limit her success but instead this drove her to bet- done before.” And, for Pillay, it was also pleasur- Ingredient 3: Resilience and commitment. to be a ‘why’ in every committed leader’s heart. In ter heights. “In fact, my journey has been all the able - being able to excel and given the space to true ‘Pillay -style’ there’s more than one in hers. sweeter because of my bitter beginnings.” shine - inspired her to discover who she was and According to Pillay, some people stand out in • Her family – Pillay is married to an amazingly how much she was capable of doing. a room, like the larger-than-life sales director who So, what did Pillay do differently from her col- Ingredient 2: Always hungry for more. commands attention the minute he enters the build- supportive husband, Keshan and they have two leagues and friends? How did this young, ordinary ing; the aura and power are innate (the 1,8m height, gorgeous daughters, Tamia, 16, and Emma, woman, with nothing more than a matric, work her Rioma then guided Pillay through a series of barrel belly and bald head helps too). How can a who is two- years old. They are the number one way up from being an ordinary clerk up the corpo- roles as opportunities arose and before she knew it, petite woman of colour possibly compete? “It is motivation for this committed wife and mother rate ladder and become the success she is today? she found her way into First Group as a clerk and only through persistence, resilience and Cominel- to keep growing. • Her team – Pillay wants to leave a legacy through leadership excellence. She wants to inspire other young people to rise above their circumstances; be it privilege or poverty. • Her God – Pillay is a committed Christian who shines her light brightly for the Kingdom. “Mix an appetite for excellence and a hunger for more, together with resilience, commitment and someone who believes in you and you are almost there. Add your ‘why’ - your reason to get up in the morning - and you are set for suc- cess,” she says. According to her, First Group has been an exceptional incubator for her ca- reer. “I have been set up for success from Day One and I am excited and ready to navigate the company through any challenge we might face in the 2020’s,” Pillay says.

Friday 18 March 2022 FOOD AND WINE 7WEEKLY SA MIRROR JOBURG’S POPULAR BUBBLY FEST fications but who have hospitality experience and MAKES COMEBACK want to increase their knowledge about wine, while driving a culture of service excellence. Gauteng wine calendar event, Johannesburg Cap Classique & Champagne Festival 2022, will With this qualification, SASA aims to certify be held at the Inanda Polo Club in Sandton on the thousands of professionals working in the ser- April 9 and 10. vice industry. Those who might not have any pro- fessional qualifications but who have hospitality Hosted by the Cap Classique Association, the experience and want to increase their knowledge event is sponsored by Sanlam Private Wealth and about wine, while driving a culture of service ex- will feature some of South Africa’s finest Méth- cellence. ode Cap Classiques (MCC) as well as a selection of France’s best Champagnes and leading Italian Guests are promising a soul-lifting food expe- Proseccos. rienced complemented by some impressive wines during dinner, courtesy of one of SASA’s dedicated Brands include L’Ormarins, Siwela Wines, partners, the Premium Independent Wineries of Bon Courage, La Bri, Graham Beck, Taittinger, South Africa (PIWOSA). Bollinger, Nicolas Feuillatte. Tickets cost R395 per person and will include a bubbly tasting glass as Tickets cost R795 a person. The dinner starts well as 10 tasting coupons. Dress theme is blue and at 18h30. Seats are limited and therefore booking white. The event starts 11am and ends at 4pm. is essential. Tickets confirmed once deposit is paid. BRAND: Siya Wotshela, who owns her own sparkling wine label, and part of the #WineofColorSA network. Photo: Robert Magwaza WINE AND FOOD EVENTS SWARTLAND GOES SOCIAL reesburg is not only at the heart of the Swartland Sommelier Eric Botha #WINEOFCOLOURSA HEADS WEST wine region, but also a vestige of authentic farm A new wine festival is scheduled to take place and family-friendly hospitality. It’s this essence re- SOMMELIERS DECK TABLE FOR A Next weekend, the roads lead to West Rand, in one of South Africa’s most dynamic wine re- flected in the name Swartland Sosiaal.” CAUSE where the annual food-and-wine event, #WINE- gions – Swartland – on April 30. OFCOLOURSA Food & Wine Show 2022, will Moorreesburg can be reached via a 60-min- Cape Town’s Wine Library at Culture Wine bar be the main attraction – March 26 and 27. The event – dubbed Swartland Sosiaal – will ute drive on the N7 highway from Cape Town, will be hosting a gala dinner and auction in the be held at The Moorrees, which is regarded as after which a first-time visitor is most likely to be mother city on March 24. The event will be held at Ramkiki Restaurant, the home of good food and great wines in Moor- charmed by the town’s historic buildings and many 35 Peter Road in Ruimsig, Roodepoort. It starts at reesburg. It will a showcase the region’s vinous other attractions. Each stall of participating winer- The dinner will launch a new partnership be- 12pm. The show introduces new and exciting food treasure. The show’s line-up includes Swartland’s ies will serve six wines amid a carnival setting fea- tween South African Sommeliers Association and wine businesses to South African consumers, signature labels such as Mullineux & Leeu Fam- turing food and all-day live entertainment. (SASA) and Culture Wine Bar. The highlight will with a mixture of culture, creativity, diversity & ily Wines, Leeuwenkuil Family Vineyards, Org de be a three-course menu presented by Chef Matt gourmet extraordinaire. Emerging wineries and Rac Organic Wine Estate, Riebeek Wine Co, Pul- Food delights on offer include homemade Manning paired with wines selected by somme- chefs will be collaborating by pairing the best food pit Rock Wine and Marras Wines, as well as non- smoked and pulled brisket rolls with chunky fries liers. All profits from the dinner and auction will and wine. Swartland wineries like Zevenwacht Wine Estate, as well as cheese-and-charcuterie platters. The be donated to SASA to help fund its a one-of-a- MAN Wines, Lievland Vineyards, Journey’s End organisers are lining up two boules courts, where kind Introductory Sommelier Certificate. With this COMPILED BY LEN MASEKO – YOURS Vineyards, Mount Rozier Estate, Nico van Merwe mates can do battle in a traditional game native to qualification, SASA aims to certify the thousands WINELY Wines and Anthonij Rupert Wyne. almost every village across France. of professionals working in the service industry. Those who might not have any professional quali- “We’re overjoyed at how this dream has come Tickets cost R350 per person available via together with the support of the wineries,” says Quicket, and Includes 10 tasting vouchers, a glass, Swartland Sosiaal founder Carien Hugo Waring, R50 towards a bottle of wine as well as the live who is well-known in wine circles for her involve- music and games. ment with many of the country’s top estates. “Moor-

8 WEEKLY SA MIRROR OPINION/ANALYSIS Friday 18 March 2022 Comment JUSTICE TOO LONG DELAYED, AN INDUSTRY AT IS JUSTICE DENIED CROSSROADS - THE FUTURE OF SA AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR The delay in the arrest and trial for the murder of Orlando Pirates star goalkeeper Senzo Robert CRITICAL: By 2030, nearly 90 percent of global automotive production Meyiwa has been too long time coming. For this and sales will be attributed to electric-powered vehicles, predicts top SA development to be happening only now, eight automotive sales and marketing executive Des Rikhotso... years after the incident, is not only a travesty of justice, but a blatant disregard for his family’s By Des H Rikhotso has no option but to choose between 2 Strategic tive domestic markets which will eventually supply long-time plea to the authorities to help them find There is no doubt that various global and local Choices: vehicles throughout the region. Automotive OEM’s closure. micro as well as macro environmental factors, * Continue to manufacture internal combustion leading this manufacturing expedition in West Afri- business conditions and circumstances are cur- ca are Nissan and Peugeot (in Nigeria), Volkswagen Meyiwa was gunned down under mysterious rently at play, forcing the South African automo- engines (ICE) and become obsolete in the long and Nissan (in Ghana). circumstances while visiting his songstress girl- tive Industry to start to explore and re-examine term; friend, Kelly Khumalo, at her home in Vosloorus its future within the global automotive industry. * Change and transform their manufacturing It cannot be ruled out that these West African in Ekurhuleni on October 26 2014. Following the plants to produce Electric Vehicles/Trucks and automotive manufacturing facilities may in the fu- incident, many stories emerged about how and Leading automotive original equipment manu- Buses for the domestic and export markets ture (medium to long-term) transform themselves who might have allegedly killed him. In that re- facturers (OEM’s) in South Africa (Nissan Group (USA, Europe, Japan etc) and become globally into being sourcing facilities for electric vehicles, gard, public conjecture linked several high-profile of Africa, BMW SA, Toyota SA, Volkswagen SA, competitive in the medium to long term. electric trucks and electric buses for certain export figures the dastardly crime, yet without evidence, Mercedes Benz SA etc) have no option but to start to What the South African government should markets such as USA, Japan Europe etc. only to fuel rumours about the motive behind the carefully re-examine their strategic options amidst a be doing is to be providing industry-support to all unsolved crime. Worse, the wrongful arrest of a rising domestic fuel price as well as the inevitable automotive OEM’s within the Industry to get them The message is this, given the increasing auto- Vosloorus man shortly after the killing served global reality of electric vehicles, electric buses and to manufacture electric vehicles, electric buses and motive manufacturing activities elsewhere in Africa only add fat to the flaming rumours. electric trucks. These have become incredible driv- trucks in the medium to short term (by 2025 at least). (Egypt, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and Uganda), South ing forces of change which the industry will have no The leading global nations (USA, Japan , Europe Africa can no longer afford to see itself as the only Just as it seemed nothing would ever happen option, but to confront and respond to in the medium etc) have all offered attractive subsidies and invest- ideal automotive investment destination of the fu- around the cold case, four men suspected of the to long term. ment incentives to get their domestic automotive ture within the African continent. killing, appeared in the Gauteng High Court in OEM’s. And, in so doing, they converted their auto- Pretoria this week. These are the same suspects By 2030 nearly 90% of global automotive pro- motive manufacturing facilities towards producing Therefore, the immediate solution for South Af- who paraded to the public, following an apparent duction and sales will be attributed to electric-pow- and assembling electric vehicles, electric trucks and rica is to work on a long-term plan, to initiate an breakthrough by police two years ago. Since then, ered vehicles, buses and trucks. buses. The leading global automotive OEM’s (Ford, automotive industrial policy which provides attrac- the case seemed to be going nowhere as the blan- GM, Toyota, Daimler Benz, BMW, Volkswagen etc) tive subsidies and incentives to the local automotive ket of silence fell over it. Similarly global multinational energy businesses will all be 100% producing and distributing electric Industry to be stimulated, to resume manufacturing like Shell, BP, Chevron etc are slowly exiting their vehicles and electric buses and trucks by 2025 to of electric vehicles, electric trucks and buses. Yet, through all the delays and official silence, fossil fuel businesses by transforming their business 2030, and will start to phase out the internal com- things appear to be looking up for the Meyiwa models to become fully fledged electrification and bustion engine (ICE) as early as 2024. Collaborative efforts are also required between family this time around. Thankfully, for now, the vehicle-charging businesses within the electric ve- Leading South African energy companies are government and the energy companies to invest in judge has set the date for the trial. And, finally, hicles/trucks/buses supply value chain in the future. now fully importing diesel and petrol for our do- electric vehicles, electric trucks and electric buses the wheels of justice appear to be rolling. On the mestic market. They must have realised that incur- mass charging infrastructure across all major centres other hand, the suspects’ legal representative has If the much-talked about and feared high fuel ring massive capital expenditure to upgrade fossil and hubs throughout all provinces in South Africa. announced that he has submitted representations price situation (for example R40/litre for petrol) in fuel refinery business operations under turbulent to the State, seeking the discontinuation of the South Africa is anything to go by, it is should serve and adverse prevailing macro and micro environ- Given South Africa’s electricity challenges, this trial against the four accused. The merits of this as an early precursor and an omen that Fossil fuel mental conditions, where there are negative industry will require synergic and innovative Private Public special plea are still to be argued in court, where will no longer be the energy of the future globally. growth prospects (in the medium to long-term), is Partnerships (PPP) initiatives between various auto- the National Prosecuting Authority is expected to not a wise business decision. This is probably what motive OEM’s and the South African government’s challenge the request. To the soccer-loving fans, The fact that two major refineries in South Afri- went through the minds of the decision makers at Department of Trade and Industry. While these enti- Meyiwa remains a hero. News of his death spread ca (Engen and Sapref) have all stopped local fuel re- Sapref and Engen refineries in South Africa when ties may have worked together in the past in design- like wild fire in 2014, with all and sundry expect- fining operations in favour of importing, is a strong they recently closed local refining of fuel. ing past automotive related trade policies, they may ing a swift arrest, prosecution and jailing of those sign that diesel and petrol in South Africa are not After all global multinational companies like now be required to work closely more than before to who perpetrated the deed. Instead, his family, going to get any cheaper going forward. Chevron, Shell and BP are all transforming their prepare South Africa Automotive Industry to take a friends and the football fraternity have been mad business models by exiting fossil fuel businesses giant leap of faith into the future. It is now clear that to wait for justice – for eight long years – to be The South African automotive OEM industry and to move towards being fully fledged electrifica- Fossil Fuel will not be the energy of the future. done. tion energy businesses in the medium to long term. The South African automotive companies are For global and South African based fleet own- Meanwhile, waiting for so long to get to the also at crossroads because, by 2025 to 2030, they ers, electric trucks and buses make sense from an truth behind their son’s callous murder has been will become obsolete if they do not immediately operating cost and Capex point of view – it is cheap- immeasurable torture to their souls. A trauma start to produce electric vehicles (EV’s) for their er to operate electric trucks and buses compared to worsened by the family’s loss of their loved father, export markets (USA, Japan, Europe etc) - their in- their diesel counterparts. Sam Meyiwa, whose son’s unsolved case eventu- ternal combustion engine powered vehicles will no ally took a fatal toll on his health. Before the eyes longer be accepted (from 2025 onwards) in these Similarly for retail consumers, electric vehicles of the nation, Meyiwa, suffered immensely before markets. (EV’s) will offer long-term cost of ownership sav- dying a broken man in July 2019, while denied It is worth noting that Uganda and Kenya in ings amidst the current high diesel and petrol costs the opportunity to not know who his son’s killers East Africa have already resumed with the assem- associated with the internal combustion engine were and why he was shot dead. No doubt the bling and manufacturing of electric buses for their (ICE) vehicles. latest news about the case being finally set go to respective domestic markets. In West Africa, Ni- *Rikhotso is an automotive sales and marketing trial on April 11 offers the Meyiwa family a fresh geria and Ghana have been successful in setting up executive with more than 20 Years’ Experience glimmer of hope. It hopefully brings the family automotive manufacturing facilities for their respec- within the Southern and Sub Saharan African Au- closer to the long-sought closure denied them for tomotive Business and Industry Landscapes gained so long. We remain optimistic that the trial will at leading Automotive Original Equipment Manu- finally proceed without further delays following facturers (OEM’s) – BMW Group SA, Peugeot reports that some of the accused had already made Motors SA, Volkswagen Group SA, Lexus/Toyota confessions. It bodes well too that the Judge has SA, Nissan Group of Africa and G.U.D Holdings. raised his concerns about needless delays, urging He writes this article in his personal capacity. that such must be avoided at all cost. Better still that he has made an order imploring the defence counsel to indicate their readiness on or before March 28, so that they can proceed with the trial. That said, we hope the trial will go ahead as scheduled so that those guilty of the crime are jailed, and so the Meyiwa family can begin their arduous journey to healing. v 060 936 2673 [email protected] Weekly SA Mirror is published by Weekly SA Mirror Pty Ltd. Correspondence to be directed to: PostNet Suite 230, Private Bag X 9, Melville 2109. Website: www.weeklysamirror.news Contact: 060 936 2673 Letters to be sent to: [email protected] MIRRORWEEKLY SA Insight to connect the dots... Weekly SA Mirror subscribes to the Press Code of Ethics and Conduct for South African Print and Online Media. As a subscriber publication and member of the Press Council of SA, the publication is thus subject to the Press Code and to the jurisdiction of the PCSA’s com- plaints procedures.

Friday 18 March 2022 OPINION/ANALYSIS 9WEEKLY SA MIRROR DISTANT By Russel Morena months prior to the outbreak of the war. If the re- WAR’S COLD Russia and Ukraine may be tens of thousands cent increases persist, the World Bank estimates of kilometers away from South Africa, but that a full percentage point will be shaved off the WINDS the former’s invasion of the latter will have gross domestic product growth of South Africa EDGING serious ramifications for the citizens of this and other oil importers. Prior to the conflict, this CLOSER HOME country. country’s economy was expected to grow by 2% annually in 2022 and 2023. DIRE: The BEWARE: Russel Morena, SAIGA Chief Executive When Russia unleashed its military might Russia-Ukraine Officer on Ukraine on February 24, its leader, Vladimir Russia and Ukraine, which happen to be conflict may be Putin, said the assault was aimed at protecting former members of the now defunct Union of faraway, but holds Ukrainians who, he claimed, had faced humili- Soviet Socialist Republics, are major producers close-to-home dire ation and genocide at the hands of their gov- of wheat and other grains. Combined, the two consequences ernment. This, he added, would be achieved countries account for 30% of the world’s traded through the demilitarisation and de-Nazification wheat. With Ukraine’s ports closed and much of of Ukraine. While it is difficult or nearly impos- Russian grain supply frozen by Western sanc- sible to predict the future, one scenario being put tions, there are fears that tightening supplies will forward is that the conflict will develop into a lead to shortages in importing countries. This protracted war. This will likely happen if it takes country imports 40% of its wheat requirements longer than anticipated for Russian forces to and in the past almost a third came from one- secure Ukrainian cities, whose defenders fight third came from Russia and Ukraine. from street to street. This implies that the impact on both the protagonists and countries that have While the Agricultural Business Council of absolutely nothing to do with the conflict, such South Africa has stated that it does not believe as South Africa, will be felt for a long time to this country will experience shortages of wheat, come. which is milled into flour, a key ingredient for making bread, one this country’s staple foods, As stated, South Africa is not insulated from the international wheat price has soared because the ramifications of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. of limited supplies. In early March, wheat traded We have already seen the price of crude oil in- in Chicago, the international benchmark, had crease to levels about $100/bl, owing to fears risen by more than 50% since the Russian inva- that Western trade and other sanctions on Russia sion. This will ultimately reflect in South Afri- would curb supplies from that country, which is can wheat prices and prices South Africans will the world’s largest oil exporter, according to the pay when buying bread. International Energy Agency. Elevated crude oil prices on the world market will translate to high- It is likely that, because of the raging war, er fuel prices for South Africans motorists, taxi the planting of this year’s spring wheat, barley, operators and those in the business of moving and maize crops in the two countries will be dis- goods. The taxi operators will simply pass the rupted. This implies that the global shortage of additional cost of fuel on to commuters, and so these grains will linger for some time. too will retailers, who themselves will be asked to part with more money to have their wares de- The guns may not be ringing out on our livered to their outlets. shores, but South Africans from all walks of life will feel the impact of the war between Russia Oil prices had been rising for about six and Ukraine. • Morena is the chief executive officer of the SA Institute of Government Auditors (SAIGA) PARTNERSHIP: Gene Likhanya CEO of the Madimbo Farms and Sizwe Shezi of Livestock Wealth. Photo: Nonhlanhla Makhajane GROWING NUTS OVER THE MACADAMIA NUTS CROPFARMING: Using agriculture as a tool to create wealth in the garden of South Africa for the benefit of both farmer and investor By Ali Mphaki While unemployment is soaring, it is profound Likhanya, says that 30 hectares of the 88-hectare “So, as Livestock Wealth, our job is to fund farm- Over four-hundred kilometres north of Johan- that over the years, research will show, the number farm was initially set aside for planting macadamia ers through our crowdfunding platforms,” he said. nesburg, its lips within kissing shot of the tropic of full-time farmers has been declining, as is the land trees and they wanted to expand on this, but one of the of Capricorn, is the village of Ha-Mashau , in what being cultivated. Government support is intermittent, challenges was to find the capital to do this expansion. Shezi explained that macadamia farmers espe- was Venda, in the province of Limpopo. with policies and interventions that promote the value cially face a big challenge, because these trees take and image for agriculture for all limited, This is where Livestock Wealth entered the pic- about six years before they are fully productive. This Ensconced in a province blessed with a warm ture. This South African company runs a “crowd- means that the farmer has to carry all the costs, such as temperate, Ha-Mashau enjoys a summer rainfall More frustrating and contradictory is the reality farming” platform, which enables ordinary citizens to paying for labour, fertiliser and irrigation. Livestock characterized by cool, frost-free winters and hot sum- that the province is resource-rich, but the majority of invest in a farming enterprise Launched by Livestock Wealth makes it possible for investors to buy the trees, mers. Like most African communities in South Africa, its people poor. The untenable reality, no doubt, needs Wealth back in 2015, crowdfarming is an initiative own them for six years and then sell them back to the the people of Ha-Mashau lost large portions of their to change soon. Rather than throw hands in despair, a that exposes investors to the benefits of the macada- farmer. Other challenges, however, as Shezi explains, land after the promulgation of the racist and land grab- silent revolution has been taking place in one of the mia crop, considered the highest earning agricultural is that there is a huge shortage of seedlings available bing 1913 Land Act. farms around Ha-Mashau, the Madimbo Farms (place crop per hectare, for the benefit of both the farmer and to plant the macadamia trees and the amount of time it of the ancestors), where the concept of crowdfarming the investor. takes to full maturation. This is the land where mangoes, papaya, litchis, has been gathering some fruit. Crowdfarming is an bananas, avocados, potatoes grow in gay abandon. innovative funding concept, combined with modern Potential investors can rest assured that in terms He says you would need six years to grow the tree Coffee, nuts, guavas, sisal, cotton, tobacco, timber, farming techniques, is making a huge impact in the of supply and demand, the macadamia crop is highly to full maturation and before it brings even one cent. and tomato farms dot the lush landscape. Also found agricultural industry and has not only created much- sought after, while there isn’t enough quantity. are some of the finest cattle ranches in South Africa, needed jobs, but also enabled everyday citizens to This is where Livestock Wealth comes in. “If you and given its rich fruit and vegetable production, no “own” a part of a farm and share in the wealth. As CEO of Livestock Wealth Nthuthuko Shezi already a macadamia farmer and have already planted wonder the province is the garden of South Africa. explains: ”When we were first exposed to macadamia the tree, we can bring in investors. Who have patient CEO Gene Likhanya explains: “Originally we fo- a while back, we got to understand that it is one of the capital who will buy the tree and own it. Then, as the Like in Ha-Mashau, most local communities in cused on growing spinach when the Madimbo Farm highest-grossing crops in the world that you can ever farmer you buy back the tree and continue farming it the province, especially in the former homelands, de- started in 2005, with only a small portion set aside for plant.’ Outlining their funding model, Shezi added for the rest of its lifespan,” he said. pend on their communal land for collection of wood macadamia trees, before we realised the potential of that.there are a lot of farmers in the rural areas who for making fire, fencing, building, livestock grazing, macadamia farming and focused their attention on this have ample land, but there is no funding available to With a minimum investment of R2 000 for one and collection of wild fruit etc. aspect of the business. enable them to plant, grow and create an income from tree, macadamia investment is designed to bring dou- those lands. ble digit returns as a reward for long-term investment. The average return is 17 percent, said Shezi.

10 WEEKLY SA MIRROR FASHION/LIFESTYLE Friday 18 March 2022 WANDA TAKING THE WORLDWanda Lephoto at the close of his runway show at Milan Fashion Week BY STORM The Press Council of SA invites applications for the position of DRIVE: Partnership about sharing experiences of following inner drive to break away from the routines PRESS OMBUD and begin passionate and defining journey... The Press Ombud’s tasks are to: By Mpumi Brown “This means the world to me. I think it’s amaz- • Adjudicate complaints lodged against newspapers, magazines and online Continuing as a trailblazer for embarking on ing that I was able to do my first international fash- bold beginnings, BULLDOG Gin partnered with ion week at the height of world fashion, in Italy, publications that subscribe to the Press Code; local fashion designer Wanda Lephoto in the where craftsmanship and quality is appreciated. • Work closely with the Executive Director to ensure the smooth functioning showcase of his latest collection at Milan Fashion So, to be able to come here and do a runway show Week.On February 28, Lephoto debuted his Fall/ that was received in the way it was received shows and efficiency of the adjudication process; Winter ’22 collection titled GAZE in the pictur- that in my steps of beginning bold I made the right • Co-ordinate the adjudication process and liaise regularly with the Deputy esque halls of Salone degli Affreschi of the Soci- choice; I made the right call; I did the right thing età Umanitaria. by following my dreams, following my passion, fol- Ombuds to ensure consistency of rulings; lowing my gut and following my truth and purpose • Contribute to monthly, quarterly and annual reports to the Press Council; The show was followed by a cocktail party for into achieving what I think I just achieved.” Khanya • Participate in information programmes and workshops with the media guests and press in attendance, courtesy of BULL- Mashalaba, Marketing Manager at Campari Group DOG Gin. BULLDOG provided support to Lephoto South Africa, says about the partnership, “We are so and the public when required. in every facet of the endeavour – from execution of proud to have supported Wanda on this journey and the runway show to the production of the collection we commend him for the astounding achievement. The applicant should possess an in-depth knowledge of the role of the media and sponsorship of the trip to Milan. He truly embodies all that it means to begin bold, in a democratic society in general, and the Press Code in particular, in order to and we believe he is an inspiring role model for lo- maintain the confidence of both the industry and the public in the credibility and Wanda Lephoto and BULLDOG Gin’s partner- cal creators and those who are pushing the bounda- authority of the office. She/he should be independent, impartial and fair and must ship began with the gin label’s Begin Bold digital ries with their craft. We’re excited for what’s to have strong writing, communication, facilitation, decision-making and mediation storytelling series, which launched in 2021. The come for him and look forward to working with him skills. Previous experience in dealing with media complaints will be an advantage. campaign includes compelling short films that fol- on more collaborative projects in the near future.” low the impactful bold beginnings of different Details: How to apply: protagonists, including Wanda Lephoto, as they In the upcoming weeks, Wanda will be releas- Applicants must have extensive media Please submit a written embrace the chance to express themselves in a way ing a Milan tour t-shirt in collaboration with BULL- experience, a fair understanding of the application to one of the that stays true to their authentic self. Each protago- DOG Gin. “Just to put that out into the world that workings of the South African legal system, following channels: nist shares their experiences of following their inner Wanda Lephoto as a brand is stepping into an in- and a sense of public service. drive to break away from the routines they were in ternational space, pursuing this as best as we can Building 12 and begin a new and passionate venture that would pursuing it with love, pursuing it with purpose, pur- Applicants must be citizens of the Republic Burnside Island Office Park, go on to define them. In Lephoto’s film, he describes suing it with truth, and also pursuing it in a way that of South Africa and reside permanently in 401 Jan Smuts Avenue, how he began thrifting and selling second-hand provides people with some sort of healing for their the country. They must be committed to Craighall Park, suits to people starting their first jobs. This is where dreams,” says Lephoto. the values underpinning the South African Johannesburg he found his affinity for fashion design. Constitution, as well as the Code of Ethics Lephoto and BULLDOG Gin also plan to host and Conduct for South African Print and Email: Lephoto comments on his beginnings, explain- an exhibition and fashion installation to celebrate Online media. [email protected] ing: “You just have to start, regardless of where the new collection, present Lephoto’s Milan Fash- it takes you. Not everything happened as I had ion Week experience and showcase his journey as This is a part-time position. Fax: 011 484 3619 dreamed, but it started to shape itself and I started to a designer. Telephone: 011 484 3612 create my visual identity.” Now, Lephoto’s distinct aesthetic is well-established within the fashion in- When asked about what’s next for Lephoto, he CLOSING DATE : 8 APRIL 2022 dustry and has even led him to a global stage. says, “I’m excited to give back, to teach in my own way. I’ve learned so much on this trip and I continue www.presscouncil.org.za In talking about his involvement in Milan Fash- to learn. I continue to have fashion designers that ion Week, Lephoto says, “Now that I’ve done it, I inspire me, that also teach me. So, I’m grateful. I’m know that I can do more.” grateful for that.”

Friday 18 March 2022 FASHION/LIFESTYLE 11WEEKLY SA MIRROR Tsholo Tsotetsi from JD Funerals MBEKENI CARVES NEW PATH IN FINANCIAL SERVICES SECTOR A journey of a thousand miles begins with just one step - as Criselda Kananda things stand for socialite and businesswoman Nomonde Mbekeni (yellow costume), who recently launched her own consultancy Elegant Class at a ritzy function held at the Houghton Hotel in Johannesburg. The occasion was attend- ed by corporate executives in the financial services sector and funeral undertaking industry. Already Mbekeni boasts a portfolio of esteemed clients in the financial services - to whom she is providing key support through marketing, hu- man resources and training solutions provided by her con- sulting agency. Makhotso Mokhema CEO and Founder Usizo Thuso Livestock Rev Cookie Makaba

12 WEEKLY SA MIRROR MOTORING Friday 18 March 2022 A READY, WILLING, AND MOTORING:Briefs AFFORDABLE WORKHORSE RENAULT PUTS BRAKES ON LOCALLY MANUFACTURED: Mahindra Pik Up Single Cab 2.2 diesel RUSSIAN EXIT REFRESHED; The new Mahindra Pik Up is an all-round- Renault has kept long-standing ties with er doing its job well Russia intact despite the special military ex- ercise in Ukraine because it’s worried about the high cost of pulling out from a venture with a local partner, according to people fa- miliar with situation. The French manufacturer wants to avoid the nationalization of its majority-owned au- tomaker, AvtoVAZ, which plays a key role in the company’s turnaround, said the people, who declined to be named because the in- formation is not public. Renault’s position is backed by the French government, its larger shareholder, they said. In past days, Renault has become the only major global automaker that has not pulled back either on trade with Russia or from pro- duction at local factories. Renault, with its 68 percent stake in Av- toVAZ, the maker of the Lada brand dating back to the Soviet era, and its reliance on Rus- sia for about 10 percent of its revenue have made the automaker the most exposed among peers. Renault has about 30 percent of the Rus- sian car market and a staff of roughly 40,000 in the country.-Automotive News Europe GERMANY RULES THE MOTORISATION RATE IN AFRICA Africa has in some countries fast-growing economies with a young, growing popula- tion and rapid rates of urbanisation along with very low rates of motorisation. The motorisa- tion rate in Africa is just 45 vehicles per 1000 inhabitants, which is significantly below the global average of 203 per 1000. In 2019, the total volume of new vehicles sold in the African market (passenger cars) was 869,000 vehicles. In 2019, 62,000 passenger cars were exported from Germany to Africa. 49% of these went to South Africa, the most important market in Africa. This means that 91% of passenger car production in South Af- rica is carried out by German manufacturers. CONTEMPORARY; The instrument panel is modern in an interior with smart features ELECTRIC CARS ARE STILL CARS By Ali Mphaki vir jou werk (you need to buy a car that will bring cylinder motor under the bonnet growls, indicating Bra Pat, (may-his-soul-rest-in-peace), was a hel- you income),” was his response in typical tsotsitaal. it’s ready to deliver an impressive torque of 320Nm Electric cars make our cities less attractive luva guy. A snazzy dresser of note, he loved his at just 1 600 revs per minute. and less efficient for more sustainable modes jazz music and had the gift of the garb to match. Poignant, if you ask me. Fact is there will come of transport. No matter the type of propulsion, a time, and it will surely come, when you have to Pulling power is impressive and the ride is people driving cars kill 1.35 million people When one of our neighbours Lebohang –pock- move house, fetch large amounts of goods, furniture smooth, you would even forget you in a bakkie. Our globally, including more than 300 in New Zea- ets bursting with his package loot – splashed on a etc. unit also had cruise control, ensuring you stick to land, every year. two-door German sedan, the whole neighbourhood the regulated speed. More cars in cities mean more space taken for was agog. Having worked diligently for a single em- You would need a bakkie. Some of us grew parking, less room and more danger for active ployer for the past two decades, Lebza, as known, up in an era where the Toyota Hilux was the most Our only gripe with the Mahindra Pik Up (so modes and less efficient public transport. Plug- thought it wise to buy himself some decent wheels, preferred bakkie. Not surprising, the script has not minor it hurts) was the reverse gear, positioned op- ging in a car doesn’t stop it from being a lethal just to ‘reward’ himself. flipped, but the terrain has changed. posite the first gear, as well as its poor sound system machine or causing congestion. There is still (we could not connect Bluetooth). More often than no clear and sustainable pathway to manage He became an instant talk-of-the town. This The choice is widen. Enter the next generation not when trying to put the car on reverse, the gear the e-waste generated by EVs. Electric cars are notwithstanding the fact that he could not drive and Mahindra Pik Up single cab, which we had on a lever would somehow shift to first gear. not “green”. They still use tyres which create never seen behind the wheel. round-trip to Thohoyandou, Limpopo, the other day. massive waste streams. Tyre wear produces Overall, the Mahidra Pik Up single cab is a microplastics that end up in our waterways and Each time he had to ride in his tomato red char- Most certainly not one to win a beauty contest, friend you can depend on, having run roughshod oceans. iot, he had to find someone to chauffer him around. the face though refreshed and contemporary, grows of those pandemic potholes between Elim and Ha- Kikiki! The absurdity of the situation could no es- on you. Mashau with aplomb. It gets the job done with mini- Although EVs use regenerative braking, cape the wily Bra Pat, who thought Lebza had gone mum fuss. which is better than traditional internal-com- bananas. Using keyless entry it welcomes you into a bustion cars, they still use brake pads when spacious cabin with upholstered seats boasting arm- Priced from R229 500, it will, like Bra Pat the brakes are applied. Braking generates toxic Why, we asked. “Jy moet koop n jalopie wat rests, air conditioner, power windows, dual airbags would say, work for you rather than the other way dust composed of heavy metals like mercury, etc, round. lead, cadmium and chromium. These heavy metals make their way to our streams and riv- Start the engine and the mHawk 2.2 diesel four- ers, embedding themselves in these waterways forever.BIZNEWS BOLDER: Fog lamps are mounted in restyled apertures CLEAN LINES: The new grille design NUDIST CYCLES DOWN is smarter giving vehicle a more CENTRAL LONDON STREET resolute appearance A man has been spotted cycling naked through London in broad daylight wearing nothing but a helmet, socks and trainers. The rider was seen joining commuters on the capital’s roads at 7am on Tuesday morning on near King’s Cross in central London. The man, who appears to be in his late 30s, seemed completely unfazed by passing traffic, or the chilly 6C temperatures. Making sure to follow the Highway Code, he patiently waited for the lights to turn green while stopped in a cycle lane. Under the Sexu- al Offences Act 2003, in England nudity is not illegal unless there is intent to cause alarm or distress to others. It would appear however that the man is a bit too early to be joined by other nude cyclists in the World Naked Bike Ride event in London, which is set to return on June 11 - Daily Mail UK

Friday 18 March 2022 PERSONAL FINANCE/BUSINESS 13WEEKLY SA MIRROR BLEAK FUTURE Bonitas Medical Fund for companies which allow their staff to choose LOOMS FOR principal officer between various medical schemes.” He said if an MEDICAL AID Lee Callakoppen employee chooses to stay with a scheme offering a deferred increase, it is difficult and sometimes SCHEMES IN THE year. These deferred increases ranged from 5.5% to impossible, to switch to another plan. This is com- WAKE OF COVID 7.9%, he said. According to Collakoppen, in gener- pounded by the fact that when these deferred in- al, medical schemes need to keep their contribution creases take place - they are often above CPI and INCREASE: : Deferment of fee increases increases as close to the rate at which the cost of do not always include an increase in benefits – so would create an anomaly for companies providing healthcare escalates. The challenge, he members effectively pay more for less. says, is that most healthcare costs in South Africa By Isaac Moledi comes to healthcare.” are not regulated, which means providers are free He advised members to know what they were Coronavirus pandemic is also having its impact However, the delicate balancing act between to charge as they see fit, resulting in the consumer Getting. “By announcing our contribution increas- on medical aid contribution increases in that bearing the brunt. He said an example was the cost es in January, our members know what they will be there are now debates around how schemes maintaining the sustainability of the scheme, while of Covid-19 PCR tests, which was finally standard- paying for their medical aid from the outset of the should dip into their reserves and how these in- ensuring members have access to affordable, qual- ised earlier this year. year. This means they can plan and, if necessary, creases should be deferred. ity healthcare, according to Collakoppen, is a core adjust their options accordingly to suit both their focus. “Last year, we were the only scheme to an- According to Collakoppen, consumers are in healthcare needs and their budgets.” As it has been a tradition for medical aid nounce a zero percentage increase on one of our for a rough ride. He quoted Statistics SA which schemes to always implement their fee increas- plans – the BonFit option. This was followed by the cited CPI at 5.9% in December 2021 which is 0.4% He said however that with the scenario of de- es from the beginning of every year. However, industry’s first ever reduction in a premium of 7.9% higher than the month before. This trend, Colla- ferred increases, “our advice is for companies to schemes experts believe that the last two years have on our BonStart Plan in 2022. koppen believes, was expected to continue with consider a mid-year open period to allow employ- seen new trends emerging due to the Covid-19 pan- National Treasury projecting headline inflation (the ees to change schemes or options to benefit already demic. “We opted to utilise around 3.2% - or R600 mil- change in CPI) at 4.8% in 2022 and 4.4% in 2023, cash-strapped employees.” Commenting on the lion – of the Scheme’s reserves to help limit con- putting consumers on a roller coaster tougher times. downside of deferred increases, Collakoppen said These, according to Bonitas Medical Fund tribution increases to below CPI for around 82% the past year had shown that the actual contribution principal officer, Lee Callakoppen, include defer- of our members for 2022. Contribution increases According to Callakoppen, the deferment increases experienced by members, after the defer- ral of increases, dipping into reserves to reduce would have been closer to pre-pandemic levels of of increases creates an anomaly for companies, ment period, was typically higher than the indus- increases and announcing delayed increases above CPI + 4% if we had opted not to use some of our medical scheme members and consumers. “Tradi- try average. An example is a scheme that offered consumer price index or inflation (CPI). reserves,” Collakoppen says. Despite most medi- tionally, members are free to change their options a contribution deferment for the first 6 months of cal schemes having announced higher contribution once a year during an open period. However, when 2021 but then applied a 5.9% contribution increase, But what does this mean for consumers? Ac- increases for the 2022 year contrary to the Council a deferred increase arises, this open period does when the industry average was 4.6%. According to cording to Collakoppen, South Africans like her for Medical Schemes (CMS) to limit increases to not always come with it. This complicates matters him, contribution increase percentages cannot be global counterparts, are feeling the financial pinch. 4.2%, Collakoppen argues that their move was in looked at in isolation without looking at the Rand line with the CMS Circular 42 of 2021 which sug- value of the contribution. “High inflation has increased the cost of food, gested the utilisation of reserves to cushion mem- fuel and utilities. Salary increases, if any, are below bers against increasing costs. “Based on our analysis, we feel that a defer- CPI and many South Africans have lost their jobs. ment strategy is not ideal. It merely utilizes scheme This, he explains, also led to several schemes reserves to provide a short-term contribution relief More so than ever, everyone is looking for val- to opt to defer increases from January to later in the to members who subsequently experience an above ue for money and better benefits, especially when it market related contribution increase. This results in members being worse off compared to the scheme that applied a lower, market - related contribution increase from the beginning of the year.” Collakoppen believes that schemes implement- ing a contribution deferment were already applying above market average contribution increases. Ac- cording to him, no matter whether a scheme has chosen to increase contributions or defer them, South Africans need to make sure they get the healthcare cover they need. “No two people or fam- ilies are alike; medical needs differ, as do finances which is why you need to get cover that suits your health needs and budget. It’s important to inter- rogate what is being offered, to understand what is covered and any added benefits being offered which won’t impact your savings before finalising your decision’’. SA ECONOMY says we have China – which alone has created FACING HEADING $25 trillion of credit over the past six years – FOR TURBULENT making it the greatest and fastest credit expansion in history. TIMES “Globally, it has taken more than $155 trillion SMALL: We now have an economy that is in debt over the last 20 years to produce global smaller than it was five years ago growth of $50 trillion.” According to Eser, some- thing is very wrong with that and he argues that Anton Eser 10X Chief Investment Officer Here we are in early 2022 with an economy is responsible for all this, you may ask? “We can this cannot carry on forever although it had lasted By Isaac Moledi that is smaller than it was five years ago with 14,3 thank the great minds that run monetary policy in longer than expected. Are we really heading for stormier markets million people unemployed, according to the lat- the developed economies of the world, a crew of ahead of us? The reality of the economic chal- est data available from StatsSA. experts and academics who have inflated an enor- He says banks printing money, artificially lenges facing ordinary South Africans is visible mous bubble in the markets,” according to 10X inflating asset prices and dropping rates to zero, all around us, yet we hear and read that the Despite all this pain, economists and other Investments’ chief investment officer, Anton Eser. have, in many ways, destroyed the allocation of financial markets are booming and those with experts say that the South African stock market is capital. “It has made sensible investment deci- pension savings see their value growing. What giddily riding a global wave and keeps reaching According to him, they have effectively cre- sions impossible. Not allowing failing compa- is going on in the markets and what are those all-time highs. And those who have investments ated free money, by lowering interest rates – even nies to go out of business artificially preserves issues that investors need to look out for dur- see the value of their savings and investments go- below zero percent in some cases – and further underperforming businesses and undermines the ing these turbulent times? ing up. fuelled the markets by injecting trillions of dollars system.” of liquidity through their various forms of quan- Financial experts agree that even before the We know that Coronavirus is not one of our titative easing programmes. “Their wild printing He believes that at times like these the age- Covid- 19 pandemic struck, the South African home-made crises; the storm is global and it is and purchasing spree has included buying highly old wisdom of Warren Buffett is so relevant: “Be economy felt like a poorly constructed boat in very real. Yet, we also know that global finan- speculative corporate debt,” he says. fearful when others are greedy and greedy when stormy seas, with the effect of rolling electric- cial markets are hitting new records month after others are fearful’’. ity blackouts, credit rating downgrades and month. In the USA for example, experts say the Eser however believe that this is not new or revelations of corruption on a grandscale being stock market is now trading at a valuation mul- simply a response to the pandemic. “They have Although experts can’t reliably predict when magnified by the constant headwind of political tiple that makes it one of the most expensive in been doing it for more than 30 years and it esca- it will turn, the signs of fragility are everywhere. uncertainty. When Covid -19 and the resulting history with global bond yields at close to or be- lated after the last global financial storm in 2008. “From the big declines we have seen in Bitcoin, lockdowns took place, it felt like the country had low zero. The worst has been exacerbated by the that poster child of bubbles, to the increasing vol- suddenly hit a very jagged reef. recent developments between Russia and Ukraine Central banks and governments in the devel- atility we see in US equities.” where the war between the two countries has un- oped world, in their determination to avoid eco- settled the world, putting global markets on tenter nomic reality being felt by the citizens and busi- According to Eser, one potential game chang- hooks. nesspeople on whose favour their jobs depend, er is inflation, which is back for the first time in have dug a massive hole, and continue to dig.” decades. “While it will probably not be anything So what on earth is going on and what or who like we experienced in the 1970s, its real rele- Adding to this massive liquidity bubble, Eser vance now is that it constrains the erstwhile ‘mas- ters of the universe’, who can no longer continue to inflate the bubble without constraint.” Will it be the pin that pricks the bubble? Eser believes that time will tell. What does this then mean for us in South Af- rica? “Unfortunately, any big global market cor- rection will have an enormous impact on emerg- ing markets as well as our financial markets. Capital will be withdrawn as risk aversion picks up. It will be painful over the short term.” While our markets have been on the rise, Eser believes that we have not significantly benefitted from the euphoria that has inflated technology stocks or sent bond yields below zero. “We have a market that still sensibly prices risk with attractive real yields on offer in the bond market, and a stock market that is not excessively overvalued.”

14 WEEKLY SA MIRROR SPORT Friday 18 March 2022 TATOOED AND DANGEROUS: Kevin “KO Kid” Lerena will bring Emperors Palace to life once more next Satur- day when he squares up with Roma- nian Bogdan Dina. KO KID READY TO RUMBLE IN BATTLE OF HEAVYWEIGHTS GSIDE V BIG MOMENT: Clash against Dina will see who by the Emperors Palace crowd that he brings the will win the WBA belt gambling venue to life whenever he is in his ele- PULE ment during any bout there. But it remains to be RIN MOKHINEIEW By Pule Mokhine prove that he is worthy of winning the WBA inter- seen if he will live up to his billing against Dina. Battle lines are drawn for what is the long-await- continental crown at the expense of Dina. ed clash of the heavyweights. The big moment But the 35 year-old Romanian Dina whose fight will dawn when home-spun hero Kevin “ KO Having forced 13 of his 27 opponents not to records 17 wins and three defeats out of 23 profes- Kid” Lerena gets the biggest moment of his box- last the stipulated full distance has enabled Lerena sional bouts, is no pushover. He is a tough customer ing career by colliding with Romanian Bogdan to make seven defenses of the IBO diadem before who has been in the paid ranks since April 2008. Dina for the WBA intercontinental heavyweight vacating it to move up a division. This is the reason His defeats have been against Jafrrel Muller, Kubrat title at Emperors Palace next Saturday (March why he has been nicknamed KO Kid because of Pulev and Daniel Dubois in his most recent bouts. 26). his superior punching power. His only defeat was suffered at the hands of Johnny Miller in Novem- Lerena who weighs in the region of 103 kg and This will be for the first time that Lerena will be ber 2014, but he stopped Miller in the 10th round in at a height of 185cm, is big enough for the heavy- venturing into the world title clash in boxing ‘s big- their rematch. weight class. He holds his own in the division ex- gest weight division since he relinquished the cruis- cept perhaps against punchers like Tyson Fury, erweight class of the IBO championship which he This will be Lerena’s second fight as a heavy- Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder and Dillan White, held since 2017. As of September last year, he was weight since he stopped Patrick Flanagan in the who would probably be too big and strong for him. ranked as the fifth best active cruiserweight world- fifth round in his last bout. Being inspired by undis- wide by the influential Ring magazine. puted champion Oleksandr Usyk from the war-torn But Aleksandr Usyk (height 191 cm and weighs Ukraine who relieved Anthony Joshua of the cham- just over 100kg) also from Ukraine, proved it pos- Nlow the 29 year-old southpaw Lerena wants to pionship belt, Lerena sees himself coming out of sible to move up from the cruisers and beat bigger the showdown unscathed. He is so much revered heavyweights. He outclassed Joshua for the WBA, WBO, IBF and IBO heavyweight diadems in Sep- tember. Will KO Kid fight his way up and ultimately match these standards? The answer will come after the final gong on Saturday night against Dinu. By WSAM REPORTER AN INSIGHT INTO brace as The Brazilians defeated Orlando Pirates The art of goal celebrations has become a THABISO 2-0 in another league game. Kutumela, who has very significant part of the footballing specta- enjoyed a superb start to life as a Sundowns player cle across the world. The sight of Manchester KUTUMELA’S COBRA has expressed his desire to perform his heavily- United’s Cristiano Ronaldo doing his trade- DANCE MOVES discussed celebration more often. mark “SIIIIII” celebration, which is translated to ‘Yes’ in Spanish, is perhaps one of the most SHOCK-AND-AWE: If you attempt to poke a The 28-year-old forward also picked an Afri- popular today. Tim Cahill’s fast-punching of snake in its hole you will be bitten, says top striker can goal-scoring celebration which has caught his the corner flag, Bebeto’s baby-rocking celebra- attention the most over the years. “I have seen a lot tion at the 1994 FIFA World Cup, Alan Shear- strikes? behind this celebration stems from the fact that if of celebrations done by African players and they er’s one-arm-in-the-air run-around and even For this new generation of Mamelodi Sun- you attempted to poke a snake in its hole, be rest always get me excited. The stand-out celebration Eric Cantona’s 360 degree gaze around Old assured that you will be bitten” the speedy striker for me is the “mind twist” celebration of former Trafford have become some of football’s most downs players, supporters have been spoilt by confidently expressed. Ghana Captain Steven Appiah during the 2006 enduring and iconic images. Oh! and of course, Themba “Mshishi” Zwane who has celebrated FIFA World Cup in Germany. I loved the way Lionel Messi holding his Barcelona No.10 jer- in many entertaining styles; and let’s not forget Kutumela scored an impressive 28 goals in he used his hand to make a ‘motion movement sey in front of the Santiago Bernabeu rival Gaston Sirino’s naughty Nedbank Cup Final cel- 74 appearances during his time at ‘The Team of around the ears’ as if to show his control over the fans. Simply exhilarating. ebration that saw him ‘feeding the chickens’ as Choice’ which earned him a stunning move to mind of the opponents,” said the Sundowns for- the club won against Bloemfontein Celtic by his Bafana Ba Style in July 2021. ward. -Sundowns Magazine. African players have also left a mark with solitary goal and more recently Peter Shalulile’s SUPERB START: Thabiso Kutumela has ex- some special and memorable goal celebrations. famous triple jump. Kutu grabbed his first goal for the Brazilians pressed his desire to perform his heavily Who can forget the wiggling hips of Cameroon’s in their DStv Premiership match against TS Gal- discussed celebration more often Roger Milla at the corner flag at the 1990 FIFA Enters Thabiso Kutumela’s kinda axy at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on September 19 World Cup? Ivory Coast’s Didier Drogba once celebration.“This celebration was created at my last year.2021. Six days later, the pacey striker de- used the corner flag as a makeshift guitar during previous team, Maritzburg United. The motivation livered an assist to Peter Shalulile who scored a his Chelsea days, while Gabon’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has mastered his front flip athleti- cism. Daniel “Mambush” Mudau famously lifted a young ball boy on his shoulders when he scored a lethal strike against Orlando Pirates in a cup final; Surprise Moriri raised an imaginary machine gun spraying bullets against Ronaldinho’s Barcelona FC; and who can forget Sandile Ndlovu’s signa- ture AK-47 strut after converting one of his lethal

Friday 18 March 2022 SPORT 15WEEKLY SA MIRROR SPORTS: Briefs MOSEKI LANDS TOP JOB AT BAFANA CLASS OF ’96 CRICKET SA LEGENDS TO HOST GOLF DAY TRUSTED: Finding a new CEO critical in the Football royalty, the Bafana Bafana Class of process of setting the sport on a path of renewal ‘96 Legends, has released the long-awaited date of and growth the first event in their 25-year celebration calendar, the MetroWired Legends Golf Day. Albeit a year HONOURED: New Cricket SA CEO Pholetsi has been the acting CEO of CSA since December extremely honoured to have been given this im- late, Bafana Bafana’s Class of ‘96 Legends will Moseki 2020. Moseki’s official tenure begins on April 1, mense opportunity at such a critical time for crick- host the golf day with naming sponsors MetroW- By Own Correspondent for a period of five years. CSA has not had a full- et in South Africa. I am acutely aware of the chal- ired (Pty) Ltd on March 29, at the Bryanston Coun- Pholetsi Moseki has been appointed as perma- time CEO since Thabang Moroe was suspended in lenges that lie ahead, but also know that together try Club. The MetroWired Legends Golf Day will nent CEO of Cricket South Africa, having been December 2019. we are stronger, and we can ensure the game we all pair Bafana Bafana legends who are also keen golf- acting CEO since December 2020. The agree- love reaches new heights. I thank the CSA family ers in corporate 3-balls to allow every team the op- ment follows a unanimous board decision to “The path to finding a new CEO has been a and board for putting their trust in me and look portunity to play with a legend on their team. approve the recommendation from the CEO critical component in the process of fixing cricket forward to helping ensure cricket is the ultimate recruitment panel that Moseki be appointed as from the ground up and setting us on a path to re- winner.” Moseki has been the acting CEO of CSA Class of ’96 alumnus Neil Tovey will once the CEO. newal and growth,” said CSA chairperson Lawson since December 2020. Moseki’s official tenure be- again captain Team Bafana Bafana Legends against Naidoo. gins on April 1, for a period of five years. a corporate team in a Ryder Cup-style competition The appointment is subject to the final ratifi- to celebrate the Class of ’96 Legends 25-Year An- cation of the terms and conditions of a five-year “I am delighted that Pholetsi has agreed to Prior to Moroe, the past CEO Kugandrie niversary milestone. Tovey’s team will include employment contract by the CSA board. Moseki take up this exciting challenge and have every Govender, albeit on an acting capacity, left under players from all generations of Bafana Bafana leg- confidence that he will ensure that cricket becomes a cloud after being charged with misconduct to the ends as well as players from corporate. The event a national game of winners that makes all South role she played in revoking the accreditation of will also host a legends-run football clinic for non- Africans proud.” journalists in December 2019, for breaches of the golfers at a local school as well as hosting a spe- Companies’ Act, and her part in the dismissal of cial screening of the Bafana Bafana international “Pholetsi has displayed extraordinary dedi- former head of sales and sponsorships Clive Eks- friendly against France after the golf prize-giving cation and commitment since he joined the CSA teen, whose sacking was ruled unfair. ceremony. The event benefits the Shoes Of Wisdom family. He has been the key link in the leadership Foundation in honour of the late Shoes Moshoeu. chain, especially during challenging periods. He Moseki, then CSA’s chief financial officer, The drive will be hosted on hole four to raise funds has played a key role in getting the organisation took over as acting CEO in her absence - the third for shoes for kids that need them in the community. moving in the right direction,” Naidoo concluded. person to fill the role in 2020. A hole-in-one carries a R100 000.00 prize which the winner will share with the foundation. In his acceptance speech Moseki said: “I am CHICAGO CUBS OWNERS FINKY SEKETE TO LEAD WANT CHELSEA SOWETO SA MASTERS The Ricketts family, who own Major League Base- AND LEGENDS ball team the Chicago Cubs, and a consortium featuring Lord Coe, both intend to make a bid for NEW BROOM: Former Moroka Swallows midfield dynamo assumes Chelsea by Friday’s deadline. leadership position of moribund structure The Ricketts said they are leading a bid from By Masoja Cele and growth of the structure. a group of investors. London Olympics chief ‘’ Firstly I am excited to be nominated to this Coe has joined ex-Liverpool chairman Sir Martin Finky “Mathousand” Sekete is to hit the road DETERMINED: Finky Sekete to practice Broughton’s bid. running following his election as chair of the what he preaches position. I believe my appointment would be valu- South African Masters and Legends Football able to the organisation. Roman Abramovich’s attempt to sell the club Association (Soweto) on Sunday. has been halted after he was sanctioned by the UK We have been nominated by the council to government. That move came in the wake of Rus- The motor-mouthed former Moroka Swallows serve on their behalf. So it would be essential for sia’s invasion of Ukraine, with Abramovich un- midfielder, will chair a new executive where he the executive to work as a unit. We hope to bring derstood to have strong ties to Russian president will be joined by another legends and masters in some respectability and interest in the name of the Vladimir Putin. BBC Sport understands the Rick- former Bucs and Chiefs striker Johannes ‘’Big- legends. etts group bid also includes US hedge fund entre- Boy’’Kholoane who unopposed retained the treas- preneur Ken Griffin. A statement on Wednesday ury tag. Once we achieved that strategy I guess we will from the Ricketts, who have had a majority interest have a booming success. Not taking anything for in the Cubs since 2009, said they would share fur- Five other additional officials added include granted, I know the task ahead won’t be a bed of ther details “in due course”. former Bucs McDonald ‘’Rhee’’ Sikhosana, Mo- roses. However, I have trust in my committee. roka Swallows’ Alfred ‘’ KK’’ Lentsoane and “The Ricketts Family, owners of the Chicago Sipho ‘’Hotstix’’ Sikhonde, as well as former We all have flaws but we need to minimise Cubs, can confirm they will be leading an invest- Chiefs goalie Isaac ‘’Ike’’ Chirwa and Michael them for the success of the federation. And, trans- ment group that will make a formal bid for Chelsea Chozi. parency is key to our objectives. As a collective we this Friday,” the statement read. need to grow the product and make some strides. Held at the June 16 Memorial Acre in Sowe- Rightly so, I expect the executive committee and MOTAUNG JUNIOR RESPONDS to, this was the third balloting for the federation the council to work in more ways than one in this TO ‘DOWNS MNGQITHI’S JIBE since 2013. The Soweto chapter has been running direction. its affairs without a chair since former Ephraim Kaizer Chiefs sporting director Kaizer Motaung ‘’Shakes’’ Mashaba left to join the provincial ex- We have been stagnated for long now. The or- Junior responded to Mamelodi Sundowns head ecutive committee in 2018 with matters left in the ganisation needs to clean up whatever is holding coach Manqoba Mngqithi’s ‘unpatriotic’ claims hands of deputy chairman David Kholoane. back. Before, we had people who served the inter- after hosting Al Ahly. Led by Pitso Mosimane, Al est of individuals rather than the structure. Ahly spent two days at the state-of-the-art Kaizer Masters and Legends came in numbers to Chiefs Village in Naturena to prepare for the game, usher in its newly elected Executive Committee. That’s not healthy for any organisation. We while many saw Chiefs’ hospitality as a friendly The newly nominated executive consist of Bev- need to respect the constitution and the image of gesture, erely ‘’Bev’’ Abrahams (Deputy Chair) Michael this organisation. Personally, my intention is to see Antonio (Secretary General) and Ntsie Rapodille this sleeping giant get to its former glory’’. Mngqithi described Chiefs’ behaviour as spite- (Deputy Secretary General). ful and unpatriotic. Amakhosi sporting director ‘’Most of our legends are not employed. And then responded to Sundowns boss claims, stating Speaking exclusively to Weekly SA Mirror, the reality is we must create job opportunities for that he was disappointed to see him attacking his Sekete said he was under no illusions at the task the members. side instead of focusing on his achievement. that lies ahead. Foremost in his mind is together with his lieutenants to work towards the uplifting However, the king size challenge is to lure “Actually it’s very disappointing because as a sponsorships into our fold. In 2010 we boasted a club it’s very important for us to show comradeship well regulated structure that took care of the leg- for the bigger picture of the football industry as we ends. hosted Al Ahly at the Village. “We’re extremely disappointed in the comments that he made and in my understanding looking at the leadership at Sun- downs, I know they are quite disappointed. TYSON NOW EATS HOLLYFIELD’S SWEET EARS Legendary boxer Mike Tyson has just launched his very own line of edible gummies through Tyson 2.0, the newly imagined cannabis brand created by the former heavyweight champion. The said gum- mies will be ear-shaped in honor of the iconic yet controversial 1997 heavyweight match between Tyson and Evander Holyfield in which he bit his opponent’s ear. Now, nearly 25 years since the match that was the talk of the town, Tyson noted via Instagram that “these ears actually taste good!” The gummies, which are called “Mike Bites” have actually been on Tyson’s mind for a while. During a 2019 episode of his “Hotboxin’ With Mike Tyson” podcast, the 55-year-old brought the idea to Holyfield who has since moved on from the 1997 incident.-Afrotech

MIRROR SPORTWEEKLY SA Insight to connect the dots... ELEPHANTINE BLUES FOR BAFANA FRESH-START: HUGO BROOS AND HIS CHARGES IN EUROPE FOR A SPECIAL OPERATION TARGETING GUINEA AND WORLD CHAMPIONS FRANCE By Ali Mphaki It is a nice problem to have for Only warfare, we told, feeds the Broos in his quest to imbue Bafana with a winning mentality. imagination and cements national identity more than sports, the grim “After the World Cup qualifiers scenes playing out in Ukraine, a point ended I said don’t bring teams like in mind. Botswana etc. I need big teams,” said the Serbian-born Bafana coach an- With our Bafana Bafana out in nouncing his squad earlier this week. Europe to fire missiles at their African opponents Guinea, otherwise known To be the best you need to beat the as National Elephants, as well as the best, is his motto. reigning World Cup holders, France, the occasion no doubt reawakens a And what an opportunity for the dormant national consciousness. young Bafana lads to rub shoulders with some of the world’s greats, the The last we saw Bafana in action likes of Kylian Mbape, Paul Progba, was on November 14 away in a match Karim Benzema etc. where they went on to lose against Ghana under dubious circumstances. The two friendlies are just the right tonic ahead of the Africa Cup of The loss meant the end of a dream Nations qualifiers in June. for Bafana to qualify for playoffs of the 2022 Qatar World Cup, having The two friendlies are tests to im- also failed to make it for the recently prove Bafana players’ experience lev- completed TotalEnergies Africa Cup el and gain crucial answers on where of Nations in Cameroon. Bafana need improvement. The nation was hurt. It still hurts. “I think France will play 80% or Bafana coach Hugo Broos in his at- 90% of their top players, but I’m sure tempt to regroup his charges and at- the coach [Didier Deschamps] will tempt a fresh-start, should thank his also use the match to try some play- lucky starts that amongst their first ers,” Broos was quoted as saying. two opponents happen to be the cur- rent World Cup holders, France. Bafana will face Guinea in Bel- gium on March 25 and will be tested No offence to Guinea, who will against world champions France in play against Bafana in the first game Lille on March 29. in Belgium on Friday, the France game penciled for the following Tues- As Bafana prepare to invade Eu- day, March 29, in Lille, is one fore- rope, it would be worth their while to most in the minds of Broos’ scrappy remember the words of English writer but talented lot. Herbert George, when he said: “The past is the beginning of the beginning and all that is and has been is but the twilight of the dawn.” MIDFIELD DUEL; Bafana Bafana Teboho Mokoena and France’s Paul Pogba to battle it out in a friendly pencillled for March 29 in Lille, France.