WEEKLY SA Mirror 44th ED

SA’S TOWN LEARN HOW SA ‘COFFEE’ PLANNING TO POP & SOCKS FOR 8‘DISASTER’ CHAMPOPO GRAMMY’S page 13page 10page Friday 08 April 2022 D E Q L www.weeklysamirror.news MIRRORWEEKLY SA Insight to connect the dots... END OF THE ROAD? Law tightens screws around suspended National Arts Council boss 2Rosemary Mangope see page

2 WEEKLY SA MIRROR NEWS Friday 08 April 2022 EMBATTLED MORE WOES: NPA orders a reopening of a fraud and corruption docket against suspended NCA CEO apparently closed without full investigation iNCENSED: SARA president Freddie PROBE: Public Protector Busi Mkhwebane Nyathela wants justice MESS: Suspended NAC CEO Rosemary Mangope could face By Ali Mphaki will again consider all the evidence in the case docket and fraud and corruption charges The suspended CEO take a final decision regarding any prosecution.” of the National Arts Council (NAC), The communique further states; “The deputy national Rosemary director prosecutions Advocate F de Kock, who forwarded Mangope your representations to the office for attention, has been ,faces more informed of the proposed course of action”. woes with the latest At the heart of the SARA matter is the manner is which twist of the expired projects and surplus policy was being applied events at the NAC, which the Public Protector’s report, had found - that a to be unlawful and unconstitutional,. fraud and In her report Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane found: cor- “The expired projects and surplus policy amounts to im- ruption proper conduct in state affairs as envisaged in the Constitu- docket tion and constitute maladministration.. against her, which “The policy is not aligned with sections of the Consti- was suppos- tution ,PAJA of the National Treasury regulations as well edly “fully in- as regulation 13(c) of the Public Service Regulations”. vestigated” by the Hawks last year, has More damning is that Mkhwebane’s report also found that Mangope had applied for funding at the NAC;s execu- now been re-opened to tie certain “incomplete” tive committee using SARA’s name without their consent issues in the investigation. and knowledge. The Hawks had opened a case of fraud and cor- “The allegation that Mangope had applied for funding ruption against Mangope at the Johannesburg Central on behalf of SARA without their knowledge was substanti- police station in October 2020, after a small NGO, the ated,” Mkhwebane said in her report. South African Roadies Association, SARA, had sub- mitted documentation evidence to the law enforcement Interestingly, Mangope had singularly taken on the agency two months earlier in August. Public Protector’s report for review after the NAC board withdrew their earlier support. for her - literally throw- It would take more than a year later for SARA to re- ing her under the bus. Making matters worse is that SARA ceive an email dated October 7, 2021, from the Serious are opposing her bid to overthrown the Public Protectors Corruption Investigation Unit (director for priority crime remedial action, and it is not clear whether she will be con- investigation), which read: “ Please take note that your tinuing with her application for review or not. case was fully investigated and placed before the Director of Public Prosecution Gauteng local division for decision’. SARA argues that she has no locus standi to have the Public Protector’s remedial action under review especially “On 22/09/2021 the Director of Public Prosecution since she was suspended and with no board support. More declined to prosecute. this office regard this matter as fi- so, certain of the Public Protector’s recommendations have nalised,” signed by Warrant Officer SB Khalo. No reasons already been partially implemented. were given. Unsatisfied by the NPA’s response and after a persistent quest to obtain reasons for the non-prosecu- When Weekly SA Mirror contacted her last week, tion from the Gauteng local division bore no fruit, SARA Mangope declined to comment saying the matter was sub then approached the national office headed by Advocate judice. But in her affidavit to the High Court, Mangope Shamila Bathoi. contends that the PP erred in her report and that her reme- dial action be set aside in its entirety. Communication received by SARA from the NPA on March 1 this year, which Weekly SA Mirror has seen, state She argues the expired projects and surplus policy al- the following; “It was noted from the content of the case lowed her to apply for funding for SARA ‘even without docket that the investigation was not fully completed.’ their consent”.. “Therefore Advocate Nkoana has been requested by The NAC, which falls under the Department of Arts the Director of Public Prosecutions to re-open the inves- and Culture, dispenses millions of rands in support of tigation and attend to certain incomplete issues in the in- arts projects annually, was found to be in violation of the vestigation.’. PFMA and National Treasury rules at the manner in which they applied their expired projects and surplus policy. “Once the investigation has been finalised Advocate Nkoana’s (director of public prosecutions Gauteng) office Over the years, it had been dogged by interminable bouts of controversy over fund disbursements - the last having been a forensic audit investigation ordered last year by Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa following a public furore over alleged mismanagement of Covid relief funds set aside for struggling artists at the height of the pandemic.

Friday 08 April 2022 NEWS 3WEEKLY SA MIRROR Hip hop sensation Sleeze Simamkele Mahambehlala is on a crusade to get addicts to kick the habit with the help of his vibrant murals in Yeoville. WRITING ON THE WALL FOR RAPPER SLEEZE CLARION CALL: Rapper Sleeze implores addicts to kick the habit before it’s too late… By Gugu Sibiya with all his unemployed friends. “We scraped and to inspire the youth, tell my story so that they can Following collaborations with Emtee and Gigi Tired of watching friends and people he knew painted the walls in central Yeoville which is a busy relate but also have faith that there’s always hope. Lamayne, he’s on cloud nine. Sleeze is focus- trampling on their dreams for a fix or binge, spot, Yeoville Primary, Yeoville Combined and the They may be going through the most but there’s ing on his upcoming debut offering entitled, Made rapper Simamkele Sleeze Mahambehlala has soccer grounds which attract lots of youngsters. always light at the end of the tunnel,” says the in 2198. It’ll be released through his Afri Chilling gone back to Yeoville to rescue the community wordsmith whose skill and message has caught the Entertainment company, which also manages bud- from the clutches of substance abuse. “Of all these places, the grounds are special to attention of the biggies in the culture. ding artists. me. That’s where I scored my first goal before I fell Armed with his campaign, Kick the Habit, Stop in love with music. Walking through my kasi as Aware that his music may not reach everybody “Venturing into business is my ultimate dream. Drug and Alcohol Abuse, he descended on the burb he fondly calls Yeoville, memories of special mo- with it’s important motivational and inspirational I’ll continue working on campaigns that make a he had moved away from two years ago. ments spent with friends, overwhelm me. messages, he’s embarking on a motivational speak- difference in people’s lives. ing journey. “After living and schooling there, I took this as “Our murals are vibrant, colourful with images The substance abuse fight is going to be around a good opportunity to educate the people about the of three scenarios. A person drinking alcohol, tak- “I’ll be going to schools to appeal to youngsters for a long time to come. I’ll always urge people to dangers of substance abuse. I emphasise the impor- ing drugs and injecting heroine. For the purpose of to stay away from alcohol and drugs. For those that kick the habit with the help from my friends. Keep- tance of coming forward, talk about it and get help. accessibility, I’ve included my details and image,” are already hooked, to seek help. My prayer is to ing youngsters inspired, is a calling I’ll fulfil,” he the rapper explains. reach as many young people as possible.” vows. “As things are, my friends have lost everything, dropped out of school, live on the streets while oth- His foresight seems to be paying off. “My so- ers have passed away. Families have been torn cials are buzzing. Strangers, aquaintances and kasi apart.” people have been sending photos of the murals, messages of encouragement, telling me how much Reflectively, “our stories are similar, we’ve they love, look up to me and proud of what I’m felt the same pain. My mom dabbled in drugs and doing. When they offer to join or commend me for seeing her battling addiction is heartbreaking. So, the work, I get inspired to do do more.” when I talk about drugs and addiction, I’m talking about my lived reality. However painful, mine is Hip hop dynamo says he appreciates all those also a story of hope. I’m still standing,” he says who’ve come on board the campaign like kasi folks confidently. and the National Department of Sports, Arts and Culture through their Mzansi Golden Economy. “In To set the ball rolling, Sleeze of 2198 as he as much as my music educates, it must celebrate refers to the burb after its postal code, hooked up those helping us to assist others. I use my music

4 WEEKLY SA MIRROR NEWS Friday 08 April 2022 INCREASED By Monk Nkomo He added : ‘’ Indeed we are created for MIGRATION One of the most enduring sins of apart- freedom. Freedom to have power and the heid was the white minority govern- right to think, the right to speak as well as TO ment’s neglect of Black communities the right to act as enshrined in our Con- CITIES MIGHT even in terms of provision of basic ser- stitution. It is our 26 -year-old Constitution vices which impugned on their human which resonates strongly with this - that DERAIL dignity, according to Nathi Mthethwa, each and everyone of us has the right to DEVELOPMENT Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture. freedom of expression.’’ GAINS Speaking at a ceremony to mark the of- The heroe’s welcome for Grammy ficial commencement of Freedom Month award-winning artist, Black Coffee this FREEDOM: Celebrations celebrations in Mpumalanga, Mthethwa week, was tangible evidence of the suc- said the provision of basic services such as cess in the country’s freedom of expression must include commitment electricity, clean running water as well as within the creative arts being recognised, other basic infrastructure to previously dis- celebrated and rewarded by the world, by government to improve advantaged communities was at the very Mthethwa said. core of the first development blueprint – the quality of people’s lives the Reconstruction and Development Plan ‘’Our message to the world is clear : FREEDOM: Arts and Culture Minister Nathi of the ANC government when democracy South Africa is inspired to be a winning Mthethwa was ushered in 1994. nation.We are building a better world - the world is not only standing up and applaud- ‘’In giving meaning to freedom, suc- ing our creative and cultural talent but they cessive democratic administrations since are also leveraging off our wins- define 1994 have had to intensify efforts in mak- what inspiration means as articulated by ing sure that the most basic services are the doyen of song’’. delivered to the people’’, Mthethwa said. Through freedom, he added, the democrat- Mthethwa reminded South Africans ic gains as a country had been extraordi- that Tutu had told them that if they wanted nary and the dignity of millions of South to protect his legacy, they must protect the Africans has and was being continually Constitution. “ So as we honour the sym- restored. bolism behind the celebration of our free- dom as a country , we reflect as enshrined The theme of the celebrations is : ‘’The in the preamble of our Constitution which Year of unity and renewal – consolidating commits the government to improve the our constitutional democratic gains’’. quality of life of all citizens and free the potential of each person.It is for this rea- Mthethwa said it was befitting that the son that as we reflect on the most devas- country was ushered into the Freedom tating effects on the lives and livelihoods Month celebrations by reflecting on the caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, we poignant reminder by the late Nobel Prize acknowledge that our freedom was indeed Laureate, Archbishop Desmond Tutu on restrained and our wings clipped.’’ what freedom means. Quoting the global icon for freedom, peace, democracy and Mthethwa also announced that some of the upholding of South Africa’s constitu- the gains included the fact that 82 percent tional mandate, Mthethwa said : ‘’ There is of the adult population in South Africa was something in us that refuses to be regarded living in formal housing but warned that as less than human. We are created for free- increased migration from the rural hin- dom.’’ terlands into the major urban centres was threatening to derail some of these gains. LIFE: Serial rapist CABINET Tshitso Mothesele WARMS TO MULTIBILLION NPA LAUDS NOTORIOUS INVESTMENT SERIAL RAPIST’S LIFE PLEDGES SENTENCE TARGETS: It calls on South Africans to support critical interventions aimed at tackling COUNTS: Tshitso Mothesele convicted of employment crisis…. charges relating to the robbery and rape of 16 female victims, the youngest being 11-years-old… By WSAM Reporter off public transport, drag them to a nearby veld, By Isaac Moledi Cabinet welcomed the news of the success- The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has rape them and rob them of their belongings. South Africa received 80 new invest- ful conclusion of the fourth SAIC which saw welcomed the sentencing of 36-year-old Tshitso domestic and international investors pledging Mothesele of Khutsong on the West Rand to He was arrested on December 15 2018, when ment pledges totaling R332 billion during the new investments in the country. eight life terms and 195 years of direct impris- a phone he stole from one of the victims was traced fourth South African Investment Conference onment for 15 counts of rape, 8 counts of rob- to a lady in Khutsong, sold to her by Mothesele. (SAIC) held at the Sandton Convention Cen- So far, R316 billion of the commitments bery with aggravating circumstances and kid- The accused was later linked to the offences by tre, Johannesburg last month, rolling the total have been invested in 46 projects that have napping. DNA, but Mothesele pleaded not guilty to the of- investments pledges to R1.14 trillion, Cabinet been completed and a further 57 projects that fences and attacked the credibility of the Forensic meeting held this Wednesday was briefed. are still under construction. The sentence was handed down by the High Science Laboratory in court. However, Prosecutor Court of South Africa, Gauteng Division, Pretoria Alicia Roos successfully proved that he was the Cabinet briefing, which was delivered by Cabinet noted the successes of past pledg- today. The judge said that his name should be add- donor of the DNA to the victims. President Cyril Ramaphosa, said the amount es as reported at the Conference, covering ed to the National Register for Sexual Offenders not only represented 95 percent of the coun- among others new production capacity in sec- and is declared unfit to possess a firearm. Describing their ordeal, victims said they suf- try’s investment target but also places South tors as diverse as automobiles, food produc- fered immensely from the abuse, with one having Africa firmly on the path to exceed its tar- tion, pharmaceuticals and digital centres. This is after he was convicted of charges relat- marital problems, another performing poorly at geted R1.22 trillion investment target over ing to the rape of 16 female victims, the youngest school, and one even resorting to drugs as coping five years. The pledges were made by various Cabinet called on all sectors of society being 11-years-old. Six of his victims were minors mechanism. companies from various sectors that include to support these critical interventions as the while the oldest was 35 years old. Mothesele energy, automotive, mineral beneficiation and country works with every community to re- committed these offences between 2017 and 2018 Deputy Public Prosecutor Adv Mzinyathi said scores of others including healthcare pharma- verse our unemployment rate, which climbed in and around Carletonville, by using the same mo- the country is faced with a pandemic of Gender- ceutical sectors. to 35.3 percent, according to the Quarterly dus operandi. He would target them when they got Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), therefore, Labour Force Survey results released recently such crimes will not be tolerated and will be pros- by Statistics South Africa. ecuted

Friday 08 April 2022 CONSUMER & LEGAL MATTERS 5WEEKLY SA MIRROR Consumer Eye AWARD-WINNING CONSUMER EDITOR LOOKS 060 936 2673 INTO YOUR COMPLAINTS MEDICAL AID SCHEMES REMAIN STAGNANT DUE TO THE COUNTRY’S ECONOMIC INSTABILITY SQUEEZE: Consumers cannot afford premiums because of the increasing inflation and petrol price Madelein Barkhuizen of Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) By WSAM Reporter significant membership growth in the last programme. The need for affordable, quality medical decade, with total medical aid membership Both plans also cover up to 42 differ- aid in South Africa has come into sharp remaining stagnant just below the nine mil- focus, with consumers feeling the pinch lion mark for a number of years now. ent chronic conditions and offer unlimited following a rise in inflation and petrol benefits for Rhythm acute medicine on the price this year. “Economic instability, not to mention a formulary list. Barkhuizen says members lack of affordable medical aid plan options also get access to Bestmed’s Tempo well- This is in addition to continuing debate currently available in South Africa, has left ness programmewhich offers health assess- around universal health coverage and the many people – particularly the low-income ments, visits to dietitians and biokineticists National Health Insurance Bill. group and those who have just entered the at no extra charge. workforce – with no option but to forgo Thandolwethu Majozi, 59, of Credi Sec- medical aid until they are able to afford it,” On the new Rhythm1 option, members tion in Natalspruit says she lost the benefit says Barkhuizen. She says this is the main earning under R9,000 per month will have of having a medical aid when she was laid reason why many consumers convince access to a plan for as low as R1,200 and off work in 2019. Majozi was subsequently themselves that they do not need medical child dependents will be covered until they diagnosed with high blood pressure and cover, leaving them open to potential debt are 24 years of age or 26 if they are regis- sugar diabetes a year later when she needed due to medical cost in the event that they do tered students for as low as R495 per month. medical aid the most. happen to require hospital stays. Benefits include cover for a prescribed She says she hates going to the local “Taking into consideration the financial list of in-hospital treatments, unlimited clinics and stand in the long queues before constraints consumers face and the growing consultations with family practitioners and getting service. This is compounded by the need for quality healthcare for all South Af- nurses who form part of the designated ser- fact that she has to wake up in the early ricans, Bestmed Medical Scheme has intro- vice providers network and preventative hours of the morning so she could get first duced the Rhythm range scheme. care benefits such as free vaccines, contra- in line. “I really need to get an affordable ceptives and immunizations for children. medical aid, each time it rains and freez- This scheme is suitable for members ing winter days gets me get sick regularly seeking an entry level income-based plan The plan includes access to maternity because I sometimes get exposed to harsh for both in- and out-of-hospital benefits care benefits. “People increasingly opt for weather,” she says. with designated service providers within medical aid that is more inclusive and ac- our network,” says Barkhuizen. cessible and that is designed with them in Madelein Barkhuizen, Marketing and mind. Sales Executive at Bestmed Medical Aid, Consisting of two options – Rhythm1 says according to the Council for Medi- and Rhythm2 – the plans offer unlimited This product offer South Africans an af- cal Schemes’ (CMS) recent annual report, General Practitioner visits, access to basic fordable healthcare because no one should medical schemes have not experienced any and preventative dentistry and access to have to forgo a potentially life-saving es- Bestmed’s comprehensive Maternity care sential like medical aid because they cannot afford it,” says Barkhuizen. MIRRORWEEKLY SA Insight to connect the dots... For more information on Mirror advertising Contact: ROSLYN OLIFANT on 068 578 0162 or call office: 060 936 2673

6 WEEKLY SA MIRROR SKILLS DEVELOPMENT Friday 08 April 2022 IKUSASA SKILLS DEVELOPMENT CAREER GUIDE HIGH UNEMPLOYMENT RATE AND EDUCATIONAL INEQUALITY STIFLE MOST WOMEN’S DEVELOMENT HELP: Lockdown measures have collapsed Sean Sharp, the Executive Head of EduPower Skills Academy businesses that helped single mothers By Isaac Moledi tion or field of work. Made up of 30% South Africa has made significant theoretical training and 70% work progress towards achieving gender experience, they are perfect for the equality but stakeholders believe youths to gain the practical skills and there are still many disparities in our experience that is needed to augment society. their employability. These disparities are also rife in Learnerships are usually funded many countries around the world and by companies as an important part of these issues need to be desperately ad- their Skills Development spend for dressed. broad-based black economic empow- erment (B-BBEE) so this means that in Two of the main challenges in- contrast to other qualifications, learner- clude the high unemployment rate ships offer a stipend so that candidates among women (which is higher than “earn while they learn”. that of men) as well as educational in- equality which have now taken centre Smith says at first she thought that stage as Covid- 19 pandemic had taken the learnership was a bad idea because its toll. she didn’t think she was going to get any education or experience. But after According to the United Nations only two weeks, she found herself en- Women’s Commission, the impact of joying her classes and little by little, crises are never gender-neutral and COVID-19 is no exception. The world “I started picturing myself not body says Covid19 lockdown meas- only getting this qualification but ures have paused many small business- much, much More.” After enrolling es that bring food to the table for many for a 12-month NQF Level 4 Business single mothers around the world. For Administration National Certificate the domestic worker, the pandemic has course, Smith says the learnership has meant no job and no unemployment broadened her perspective and changed benefits or other protection. For count- her life. It has given her a glimpse of a less women in economies of every size, future that she never dreamed possible. along with losing income, unpaid care and domestic work burden has explod- “The classroom work has given me ed, says the UN. an understanding of what goes on in a business environment and I want to While everyone is facing unprec- learn more. I’m getting the basics at the edented challenges, Sean Sharp, the moment but after the learnership, Executive Head of EduPower Skills Academy, believes however that there I want to enroll for a B.Comm and are success stories in South Africa in maybe even go on to do an MBA de- which ordinary women have overcome gree,” she says. these challenges and these need to be acknowledged and shared. For now though, Smith says she is focused on her learnership and the “It takes a special kind of deter- possibility of university in 2023. Her mination for young women to rise end goal is to eventually not work for above and succeed despite their cir- a company but to start her own busi- cumstances,” says Sharp. “There is no ness. “In South Africa, there are very better way to celebrate these achieve- few job opportunities. With a business ments than by applauding these coura- of your own, you don’t have to rely on geous ladies. By sharing their stories, someone else for an income. they will become role models for other young women so they too can rise.” You make your own opportunities and you get to employ other people and One such success story is that of make their lives better too.” 30-year-old Fathima Smith. Through her own admission, Smith believes she The potential that the learnership wasted a few years of her adult life. has unlocked within Smith is an inspi- After school, like many South African ration for all young women in South matriculants, there was no money for Africa. Had she not been awarded a her to study further. learnership, she would possibly still have built a respectable career for Thus, she entered the world of herself because of her determination work and after a couple of jobs, she to succeed but without acquiring the ended up in a call centre, working in skills she is now learning. The lack of customer care. which would have, in all likelihood, offered her far less opportunities to “I wasn’t really happy so I thought achieve her full potential in the work- if I applied for a learnership, it would place. Through the learnership, Smith give me an opportunity to study whilst says she has changed her destiny. working at the same time,” Smith says. “That was how I ended up at EduPow- “I have wasted three years in which er.” According to Sharp, learnerships I could have been studying but I am are work-based learning programmes starting to see things differently now that are directly related to an occupa- and that has also changed my goals in life. For the first time, I know where I want to go and what I want to do.’’

Friday 08 April 2022 PERSONAL FINANCE/BUSINESS 7WEEKLY SA MIRROR MOST EMPLOYEES PREFER WORKING HOME POST PANDEMIC By Isaac Moledi INCREASE: There has been an increase in Hayes says his company’s recent study has The Covid- 19 pandemic has thrust many or- productivity from the remote workforce revealed that role ambiguity was one of the main ganisations into a new way of work, hybrid sources of stress among employees. He says man- work, and it looks like this new way of work is gaged and productive.” in place, they are likely to struggle more to deal agers must clearly communicate what is expected here to stay, but as to how long this type of work According to Hayes, his group has compiled with other work-related stress. “Making sure that from their employees and how a hybrid work mod- will be with us is anybody’s guess. you know how the technology that was designed to el might impact their roles and the responsibilities some tips for employees and managers on how they make your workday easier works or at least know- allocated to them. “Give employees an opportunity And it looks like this way of work is already can effectively deal with hybrid work. The tips, he ing who to contact if it doesn’t, can save you lots of to highlight the type of work that they enjoy do- been accepted by many. The question is, how do says, are based on extensive literature reviews and frustration,” says Hayes. ing and allow them space to incorporate some of organisations deal with it in their day-to-day opera- a recent collaborative research project between • Listen to your body. this type of work into their roles. “Research shows tions? JVR Africa Group and the Human Resource De- that employees who get to focus on work that they partment at the University of the Free State where Healthy people tend to cope better with work- find meaningful are likely to deal better with work- Having lived with the Covid-19 pandemic for the two groups investigated the impact that remote related stress. “Listen to your body when it tells related stress.” nearly two years, many organisations still operate work has had on employee well-being. you to slow down or that you need to drink more • Build connections virtually, with many people working from home. TIPS FOR EMPLOYEES . water or eat more sustainable snacks. According to extensive literature reviews and a • Keep a regular work schedule As remote work continues, Hayes says they recent collaborative research project between JVR We become so busy that we often neglect our see declines in the networks within organizations Africa Group and the University of the Free State, Hayes believes that employees who structure basic physical needs.” Hayes says his company that could lead to a loss of social capital. According 73% of the global workforce indicate that they their workday around a schedule tend to experience found that people who get enough sleep, exercise to him, social capital is imperative for continued would prefer remote work to continue past the less work - related stress than their counterparts. regularly and eat more healthily will tend to cope innovation and productivity. Although teams that pandemic while 83% of employees believe that the Remote work has also enabled employees to struc- better with their work stress. He argues that it is continuously work together may remain in close shift to remote/hybrid work has been a successful ture their days around work that they think contrib- important to know when you need to take a break. contact, managers need to be aware that the ties one. ute most to their goals, thus providing them with a “If your workload is too much to handle you will between different teams may weaken with contin- sense of autonomy and greater engagement. struggle to deal with stress regardless of physical ued remote work. Employees may need to rely on The research also indicates that around 49% of • Put boundaries in place. resilience.” colleagues outside their own team to conduct their employees born after 1980 will consider leaving • Make extra effort to communicate with your work and managers need to establish these connec- their current roles if they were not allowed to con- One of the main sources of work-related stress tions to enable their employees to reach when need- tinue to work remotely. Although this is the case, during pandemic, according to Hayes, is work-life boss and team. ed. Connections between colleagues from different 67% of the global workforce indicated a need for balance. “Employees struggle to find the balance With remote/hybrid work there is less interac- teams also contribute to knowledge sharing and the more in-person interactions with their colleagues. between the roles they have to play at work and tion between employees from different teams or efficiency with which projects can be completed. those that they are expected to play at home.” By departments. “Even within teams, some individuals • Remember to listen Cobi Hayes, Product and Research specialist at putting boundaries in place, they can more effec- form clusters, and we see diminished communica- JVR Africa Group and the compiler of this report, tively navigate these roles. But this count both tion across teams and even within teams.” Hayes According to Hayes, employees thrive in envi- says organisations have further also seen increase ways – being able to separate your home life from says when teams do not engage with others out- ronment where they experience psychological safe- in productivity among their remote workforce as work commitments and taking the time needed to side of their teams, they run the risk of groupthink ty. He says pandemic has taken a toll on people and well as increase in their organisations’ bottom line. spend with your loved ones, but also being able to which could lead to a lack of innovation. “It is also adapting to hybrid work models can be difficult for set apart focus time for work with no distractions important to be able to talk with your boss or team employees. He says employees may not feel com- According to Hayes, more than half of employ- from your home roles. leader when you feel overwhelmed. In our recent fortable telling their managers that they are strug- ers believe that their employees are more produc- • Get comfort with technology. study, we found that workload was one of the main gling to adapt out of fear or lack of assertiveness. tive working from home than in previous models. sources of stress during remote work, so it is im- Technology has become the cornerstone of portant to discuss this with your boss and be able 4. Resist the urge to micromanage and cel- “This tells us that hybrid work models are here connectivity during the pandemic and will contin- to reach out to colleagues when you require help or ebrate success to stay,” says Hayes, adding that as organisations ue to enable organizations and employees to stay in additional resources.” “we need to be able to deal with the impact it has contact. Technology that does not work effectively, TIPS FOR MANAGERS Hayes says if managers can make sure that em- on our employees and organisations”. however, can lead to frustration and when employ- • Set expectations early and often ployees have a clear understanding of the outcomes ees feel as if they don’t have the necessary support of the project, they can stand back and allow them According to him, remote work has, to some to find ways of achieving these outcomes. He says extent, enabled employees to structure their work employees also want to be able to develop in their around those tasks that they view as meaningful roles, and providing positive feedback and recog- to themselves as well as to the strategic objective nition can guide them along their career trajectory of their organization. This, he says, increases the because they feel their contributions are recognized meaning people derive from their work, which he and valued. believes could lead to greater engagement. However, he believes that continued remote work could lead to social isolation or disengage- ment among team members. “We need to ensure that we continue to keep our workforce both en-

8 WEEKLY SA MIRROR OPINION/ANALYSIS Friday 08 April 2022 Comment THE UNCANNY INVOKING OF URBAN PLANNING TWO ESTRANGED LEGACIES ‘DEGENERATING’ April marks the official commencement of this year’s IMPACT: Current spatial planning is a fruitless and wasteful Freedom Month celebrations – a glorious event ironi- expenditure, undertaken without value or substance and not yielding cally punctuated by the inglorious reality of poverty results... faced by the millions of Black communities, to whom the anniversary must hold nothing dear. By Isaac Moledi The general picture is bleak services?” Current town and regional planning in South and necessitates Gildenhuys says currently, spatial planning is a Understandably so, since they have nothing to Africa is “inconsequential and a waste of money show for the freedom that was attained with the blood with little or no impact on the future of our cit- a fundamental rethink fruitless and wasteful expenditure, as defined by and sweat of many a fallen struggle hero, leading to ies”. of planning and our town the auditor-general, as it is undertaken without the demise of apartheid in 1994. Yet, the freedom value or substance and does not yield any de- ushered in when the ANC achieved the landslide This is the warning from spatial infrastructure and regional planning sired results or outcomes. victory in the country’s first democratic elections in planning specialist BC Gildenhuys and Associates, approach... • As problems deepened, so grew the gallery 1994 and Nelson Mandela became President, rightly writing in the March 2022 newsletter of the Level of cheerleaders: South Africa’s development elicited great euphoria and optimism about the future 2 broad-based black economic empowerment (B- volved” in town and regional planning (TRP). challenges were well documented and known. – but that soon dissipated in the air. It gave hope to BBEE) company. Gildenhuys highlighted the following as the The fact that government, and especially mu- millions of poverty-stricken Black people, anticipat- nicipalities, battles with managing urbanisation ing their lives would be improved and that finally In a stinging criticism of the current crop of core issues underlying the current state of TRP: and meeting the delivery demands escalates there was light at the end of the tunnel. But, alas. urban and regional planners, Gildenhuys says they • Lack of technical skills: Work produced by planning challenges daily. These problems Instead, their hopes would be gradually shattered. have sunk to become the bottom feeders in the built grew while the number of planners who could In his speech during the launch of Freedom Month environment and city development food chain, con- town and regional planners reflected the low address these challenges decreased. Yet, as the yesterday, Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Nathi straining development rather than making any posi- quality (qualitative and quantitative) of town skills base declined, the number of advisors and Mthethwa recalled the late Archbishop Desmond Tu- tive contributions to the future of our cities. and regional planning. Reasons were nearly persons telling others what and how to do plan- tu’s quote, that South Africa was created for freedom. complete lack of technical skills in the armour ning was rapidly growing. “The extent to which urban planning has degen- of town and regional planners and low quality “Micro planning consultancies are mushroom- “There is something in us that refuses to be re- erated into a more or less meaningless self-centred of planning which, he says, is driven and ex- ing, and practitioners blindly follow and ex- garded as less than human’’, Mthethwa said, quoting humdrum, with little or no impact on the future of acerbated by the supremacy of guidelines and ecute externally induced guidelines, directives Tutu. “Indeed - we are created for freedom,” the Min- our cities, stands out like a sore thumb to all ex- then simply following a box-ticking process. and regulations. At the same time, NGO’s driv- ister emphasised. “Freedom to have the power AND perienced and capable town and regional planners The guideline-driven process leaves little or no ing narrow objectives, regardless of broader re- the right to think, the right to speak as well as the in South Africa,” says Gildenhuys, whose company room for innovation in responding to local chal- alities or consequences, find comfort in support- right to ACT as enshrined in our constitution. It is our has three directors with a 49% shareholding and lenges, according to Gildenhuys. ing academia who latch onto global issues often 26-year-old constitution which resonates strongly empowerment development solutions NPC hold- • One could not plan for things you cannot con- irrelevant to local development challenges.” with this: that each and every one of us has the right ing a 51% share in the business. According to the trol or implement: Although the founding basis • A confused and mixed-up implementation en- to freedom of movement. It is also enshrined in our company, the current environment developed from of town and regional planning were interven- vironment: The role players overseeing plan- constitution that everyone has the right to freedom of a very fragmented planning and development sys- tions to improve health conditions in urban ning and development in South Africa were the expression to cite few examples”. Still quoting from tem and that the formal recognition of integrated communities, Gildenhuys believes this has es- Department of Agriculture, Rural Development Tutu’s hymn book, Mthethwa said the Arch also fore- development planning as fundamental to govern- calated to an all- encompassing desire to control and Land Reform (DARDLR) – as custodians warned the nation that, “If you want to do anything to ment policy has left challenges that have to be met. every aspect of urban development and human of spatial planning, Constitutional Develop- protect my legacy, protect the Constitution.” activities. ment and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) being “The harsh reality is that the input of urban “There is never the realisation that you cannot responsible for local government, and National Further, the Minister reflected on the ideals en- planners on spatial development is inconsequential plan for what you cannot implement. For exam- Treasury (SANT) holding the purse strings. shrined in the preamble of our constitution which or even harmful when viewed in the context of the ple, the local government in South Africa con- “Ironically, DARDLR, with no executive re- committed government, that is, to improve the qual- outcomes and ‘results’ of spatial planning,” he says. trols less than 5% of the local economic asset lationship with the local government, controls the ity of life of all citizens and free the potential of each base. Yet, this does not deter the “planner” from town and regional planning processes. This rela- person. “So, as we honour the symbolism behind the To illustrate the point, he gave two examples: developing grandiose plan after plan, setting tionship with DARDLR must frustrate COGTA in celebration of our freedom as a country… It is for first, that, although the Spatial Planning and Land visions and chasing illusions in a world com- furthering the development of local government this reason that as we reflect on the most devastating Use Management Act (SPLUMA) and spatial de- pletely divorced from reality.” and service delivery in just the same vain that effects on lives and livelihoods, caused by the COV- velopment frameworks (SDF’s) are the holy grail • The town and regional planner’s lack of under- SANT ventured into urban planning to further fi- ID pandemic - we acknowledge that our freedom was of urban planning and the instrument to bring standing of the implications of their actions: nancial controls over municipalities.” indeed restrained and our wings clipped”. prosperity to our cities, it is hard to find a single South Africa developed an obsession with Gildenhuys believes that the crown jewel in this SDF in South Africa that achieved any of its (and plans. “We have built layers of plans of all sorts somewhat confusing institutional set-up is the Na- Lo and behold, such feel-good speeches – prof- SPLUMA) objectives in even the slightest measure. without any meaningful results in the process. tional Department of Housing and its agencies that fered on national calendar days so often – have or- Instead, Gildenhuys says, spatial planning morphed The much-favoured “outcome-based” approach cut across all spheres of local planning and might dinarily become all too familiar, delivered by our into a generic guideline-driven compliance exercise to planning was driven by utopian needs while prove to be the most significant contributor to un- Ministers somewhat with half conviction to elicit with little or no regard to local issues and problems. ignoring the harsh financial, resource and insti- sustainable local government and dysfunctional ur- a tinge of incredulity and cynicism. Incredulously, tutional realities. If the government existed to ban structures in South Africa. still, Mthethwa went on to singularly attribute to the Secondly, the value of the urban and regional deliver services, how can a town and regional Finally, Gildenhuys warns: “The general pic- derailment of the nation’s freedom ideals to… (yes) planner had declined to a level where the profession planner plan without in-depth knowledge and ture is bleak and necessitates a fundamental rethink the Covid pandemic, adding that “we acknowledge must seek legal protection through agitation for job understanding of municipal infrastructure and of planning and our town and regional planning ap- that our freedom was indeed restrained and our wings reservation when it cannot survive based on the val- proach. Town and regional planning in South Africa clipped”. Really, Mr Minister. No mention whatsoev- ue of superior service to its clients and the commu- is everything but sustainable and integrated”. er of the wanton corruption that horribly clipped the nity at large. Underlying this is “land use planning” liberation agenda’s wings, destroying the noble foun- relegated to a legal-administrative process requiring dation of our democracy. Nothing, too, about the little or no planning skills, Gildenhuys holds. slippery path deliberately created by greed that led us to the door of the Zondo Commission of Inquiry. These challenges highlighted the need for “weighty introspection by all stakeholders in- To claim Tutu’s legacy, when actually his twi- light years were characterised by a strident disaf- fection towards the ruling party, is a classic gaffe on the Minister’s part. Indeed, an anomalous asso- ciation that must left the Arch turning in his grave. And, finally, to invoke the Arch’s legacy so richly as Mthethwa did, more so during this most trying times in the history of our country, is rather uncanny, if only because of the juxtaposition of two estranged legacies. If this was done because he had been seized by an epiphanous moment, perhaps this should be a clarion call to government to truly engage in intro- spection leading to its own catharsis. 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 08 April 2022 OPINION/ANALYSIS 9WEEKLY SA MIRROR ‘SA NOT INDIFFERENT TO UKRAINE HUMANITARIAN CRISIS’ DIPLOMACY: International Relations and Cooperation Naledi Pandor says constructive solutions focused on addressing the humanitarian situation and promoting peaceful dialogue remain imperative. By Dr Naledi Pandor Security Council in Ukraine on February 24th. bust trade relations with a plethora of countries ing the already dilapidated infrastructure in such a Yesterday, the United Nations General Assem- The use of United Nations General Assembly across the political divide of the Cold War. This small and densely populated area, the world failed bly adopted a resolution to suspend Russia from approach is as valid today as it was then. Our non- to respond in the same way as it has on Ukraine. the Human Rights Council. The resolution re- votes rather than Security Council is further evi- aligned position does not mean that we condone ceived a two-thirds majority in the 193-mem- dence of these shifts. Russia’s military intervention in Ukraine, which That military aggression is not met with sanc- ber General Assembly with 93 countries voting has violated international law. tions, isolation, and a divestment campaign. We in favour, 24 against and 58 abstaining. South Global power relations are being realigned in have been strenuously pointing out that current Africa abstained on the resolution. response to the war, and there is volatility in the South Africa has always opposed violations of approaches strain relations further. global economy. These have had a direct impact the sovereignty and territorial integrity of member This is the third resolution since 2 March on South Africa and the developing world. states, in keeping with the UN Charter. The international community must focus on 2022 tabled on Ukraine at the UN General As- finding a sustainable solution. It will not be found sembly, on which South Africa abstained. South Africa, countries on the Continent and We have also decried the humanitarian dis- in isolating one party or bringing it to its knees. several other members of the Global South who aster that has resulted from the ongoing military We do not want to go down the route following South Africa is not indifferent to what is go- are affected by the conflict, have sought to assert operations and called for the urgent opening of the Treaty of Versailles. ing on in Ukraine. We are deeply concerned about their independent, non-aligned views on the mat- humanitarian corridors and the provision of aid to the continuing conflict, the loss of lives and the ter. the civilian population which, as usual, bears the Constructive solutions focused on addressing deteriorating humanitarian situation. brunt of the suffering when violent confrontation the humanitarian situation and promoting peace- We have resisted becoming embroiled in the breaks out. ful dialogue remain imperative. President Cyril As a matter of urgency, there must be a ces- politics of confrontation and aggression that has Ramaphosa conveyed to all key stakeholders that sation of hostilities, which would be the first step been advocated by the powerful countries. In- We have held these views with respect to South Africa stands ready to support the peaceful in a comprehensive response to the humanitarian stead, we have promoted peaceful resolution of Palestine and many other countries where sover- resolution of the conflict in Ukraine, with a view crisis. We continue to stress that dialogue, me- the conflict through dialogue and negotiation. eignty is threatened. to bringing the violence to an end as speedily as diation and diplomacy is the only path to end the possible. We are fully cognisant of the deliberate current conflict. As we stated in the General As- This is in keeping with the approach of mem- One of our concerns is the seeming lack of opposition to our call for peace and negotiations sembly yesterday, wars end when dialogues begin bers of the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) balanced evidence in the United Nations today. and continue to hold the view that in the end ne- and wars endure when there is no dialogue. since its formation in 1961 when developing gotiations will end the conflict. countries in Africa and Asia committed them- There needs to be consistency in the approach * This a statement by the Minister of Interna- We are witnessing the tectonic shifts in global selves to maintaining independent foreign poli- of the international community to countries that affairs, particularly since the Russian Federation cies and extending the hand of friendship to all violate international law. When Israel launched tional Relations and Cooperation, Dr Nal- used force without sanction by the United Nations countries which reciprocated that friendship. sustained offensive military operations against edi Pandor, during the Media Briefing on the Gaza strip, killing hundreds, flattening homes, the Russia / Ukraine Conflict today This was a way to balance their national in- burying civilians under the rubble, and devastat- terests when their priority was to maintain ro- By Ido Lekota GIVE MANI of importance on possessions and money to obtain Like many other young South Africans, Sibong- COMMUNITY a sense of power and status among their peers. The ile Mani grew up in abject poverty in the rural SERVICE – NOT Isikhothani culture adopted in the townships by hinterlands of the Eastern Cape – where life for JAIL SENTENCE youth from a poor background, is a case in point. her family was a constant struggle to survive. JUSTICE: Many feel the sentence is rather Such a situation should raise warning bells in But, when she ventured beyond the boundaries a country like South Africa, ravaged by endemic of her rather impecunious upbringing to seek a bet- harsh for a first offender like Mani, hence calling poverty and declared by the World Bank as the ter life as a student at the Walter Sisulu University, world’s most unequal society. It also calls for more she saw another world. A world where some of for a community service alternative life-changing solutions for most young people in her some of her contemporaries lived primarily as the country who are struggling to survive and seem queens of bling, with their lifestyles maintained by crashing after the East London Regional Court for a community service alternative. doomed to a life of penury. lecherous sugar daddies with deep pockets. And in found her guilty of stealing R818 000 of the R14- Unfortunately, while judicious, sending Mani – this world of materialism – where one’s value as a million windfall from NSFAS, sentencing her to a The situation also means that as a society, we person is based on material possessions – they were five-year imprisonment – which she is appealing. given the miserable state of our correctional system must go beyond interventions such as throwing the adored and seen as paragons of happiness. Passing what many have argued is a rather harsh – could turn out to be another self-defeating band likes of Mani into jail for being driven by “greed”. sentence, Magistrate Oliver argued that Mani’s aid solution to a far more deleterious situation. But, instead, come up with more sustainable solu- Like any other young person living in a world shopping spree was driven by “greed” rather than tions that would go to the nub of what causes them where being well means being well-off, Mani most “need” because she did not spend the money on On the other hand, studies have shown that peo- to behave in the manner they do. probably aspired for material possessions as means essentials and must therefore bear the brunt of her ple from a poor background (such as Mani) experi- to social approval, something that has become a errant behaviour. Many feel the sentence is rather ence negative emotions as a result of deprivation, Such solutions must, for example, be cognisant sub-culture among the South African youth. harsh for a first offender like Mani, hence calling and this translates into low self-esteem. The studies of studies that show how competency and pride also show that, as a means of dealing with low self- in accomplishments are a critical element of self- Then came what initially appeared as a fortu- esteem, the impoverished youth place a high degree esteem and that, in general, the impoverished rep- nate stroke of serendipity, when a technical glitch resent fewer achievements than adolescents from at the National Student Financial Aid Scheme saw more affluent backgrounds. R14 000 000 being accidentally transferred into Mani’s account. When, in effect, she was only These observations suggest that impoverished entitled to a R1400 monthly allowance for living youths can be empowered through activities that expenses. provide challenges and accomplishments, yielding a more positive sense of self and less emphasis on The windfall saw Mani dipping her fingers into material wealth to establish their self-worth. the extraordinary life of conspicuous consumption, launching into a 73-day lavish spree in the order of Interventions to this end could include intro- R11 000 a day. It has also been revealed that, by the ducing extra-mural activities such as sports and arts time she was bust, she had transformed herself and in public schools. Excelling in some of these activi- her immediate friends into Beyonce-like interna- ties could create opportunities for the impoverished tional-styled women, sporting expensive weaves, youth to attain the sense of achievement they often carrying iPhones and throwing lavish parties, lack due to their dire economic situation. where they downed shots of R700–a-bottle whisky. • Ido Lekota is a former Sowetan Political edi- Mani’s life of glamour would soon come down tor and independent socio-political commen- tator.

10 WEEKLY SA MIRROR FASHION/LIFESTYLE Friday 08 April 2022 SA’S ‘COFFEE’ AND SOCKS SPICE UP GRAMMY’S C0VETED: Black Coffee’s Grammy will galvanise tourism in the country… TRIUMPHANT: Jubilant DJ Black Coffee sets his sights By Gugu Sibiya Who would have imagined a pair of socks by GOODIES: Entrepreneur Sbusiso Ngwenya on more Grammies South Africa is still brimming with pride – a young entrepreneur from Tsakane, Brakpan in of Sbu Skinny Socks, flies SA flag high days after Nkosinathi Maphumulo, better the Ekurhuleni would have made an appearance known as DJ Black Coffee, did South Africa at the esteemed awards, nogal? scooped the hugely coveted Grammy Award, in Las Vegas, USA this week. Founder of local brand Skinny Sbu Socks, Sibusiso Ngwenya, is making waves, with his Subconsciously is the offering that upset the colourful socks highly in demand locally and in- apple-cart when it emerged top of the heap on ternationally. He did South Africa proud on the the Best Dance/Electronic Album category, at night as his socks were procured to be part of the the 64th Grammy Awards. Reacting to the news, Grammy’s goodie bag! SA Tourism Acting CEO Themba Khumalo said: “Victories such as this one, and inclusion of our Meanwhile, Khumalo said arts and culture talent and products on such revered world stages, was one of our biggest exports, adding: “Our shows travellers the diversity of experiences that people are warm and friendly and have always await them when they visit our country”. been at the forefront of showcasing all that our country has to offer. As South Africa, we have Accepting his first-ever Grammy, the hum- seen how such exceptionalism and accomplish- ble producer said that this was the first of other ments help us to reinforce the destination’s offer- five Grammies he was going to walk away with ing to the world. in the future. America is a long way from our shores. but DJ Black Coffee was in good com- “Black Coffee’s win at the Grammys contin- pany. Another South African whom is making ues to fly the South African flag high and paint inroads in the USA, is comedian par excellence the world with the bright and vibrant colours of Trevor Noah, who hosted the awards, doing an our flag, further entrenching the South African amazingly great job. With one Grammy under flavours and enticing the world to come visit our his belt, flutist, composer and producer Wouter country. Kellerman, was once again nominated. This time around for the Best New Age Album and Best “As South Africa’s tourism sector recovery Classical Solo Vocal Album category. plan kicks into high gear, these types of success- es, elevate the image of our country and draws interest from travellers and investors from all over the world,” Khumalo added. THE TRAGI-COMEDY LIFE OF SA’S ERSTWHILE ENFANT TERRIBLE REMORSE: The Junior Khanye Story, compiled into a book, is an experience enriched by lessons inherent in the expression, hindsight is the best teacher… INTROSPECTION: Ex-footballer Junior Khanye chats to SABC presenter Melody Miya during the launch of his book in Rosebank. By Jacob Mawela of familiar reality. book is dedicated, is shown in back cover of the branch of Exclusive Books, a now dried-out and The book cover of Ghetto Ninja - The Junior It is a cauldron stewing with ingredients rang- book carrying his eldest son at a neighbourhood repentant Khanye, cut a benign figure alongside Khanye Story, has the curious semblance of a street. Ironically, the paterfamilias’ demise culmi- Kirkinis and SABC presenter, Melody Miya, who Tinseltown movie poster! ing from the proverbial “wine-women-and-song” nated in the son laying him to rest on his birthday. facilitated a panel discussion before a multiracial hedonistic lifestyle to the tragic parable of being crowd of about a 100. Hailing from the same loca- The protagonist – a teenage version of the one’s own worst enemy. It is laced with con- Tracking Khanye’s rise to fame, Kirkinis shines tion which gave South African soccer, Jabu Mahl- now 36-year-old – is depicted striking a gung-ho science-awakening undertones such as: “Why did the spotlight on the prodigy’s trajectory from ama- angu and Skapie Malatsi, Khanye was described by pose whilst staring askance into the camera, mouth you sleep with Nomsa? teur footballer to him finally landing onto the books the author as belonging to a “naughty generation agape, toothpick of sorts dangling from his lower of Amakhosi. All the while, the teenager’s journey of players.” lip. A closer glance, reveals an enfant terrible re- You were warned that she had a man!” This, is littered with repeated incidents of ill-discipline, plete with trademark blonde hair. The image evokes having cavorted with the girlfriend of a feared which put paid to his brief stint with the vaunted Coincidentally, Mahlangu and Malatsi had a the make-believe realm of Hollywood complement- gangster, betraying the sporting hero’s dare-devil footballing brand. dubious, common distinction of having plunged ing the surreal life experiences the erstwhile Kaizer proclivity for philandering. their once-flourishing footballing careers into Chiefs FC winger, who hails from the hardscrabble Self-destructive episodes of a young star un- flames – through barn-storming life involving bot- Ekurhuleni township of Daveyton, has had to navi- At the core, it is a tragic saga of the son of a able to hold himself in hand include unrestrained tomless boozing, womanising and fast cars. gate through. Frankly, the rollercoaster life he had footballer father who ironically discouraged him bouts of booze binges which led to multiple car partly subjected himself to! from taking up the sport as a career, and whom crashes. Such brat behaviour inevitably gutted Offering a candid assessment of his past, Kh- he ultimately lost through a cruel act of fatal stab- those who cherished him. In the end, Daveyton’s anye says he had to experience the things he did, Transcribed by Nikolaos Kirkinis, the in vogue bing by thugs. What was like plunging the knife prodigal son would later find ultimate redemption after all. Whether such an assertion could be inter- author of two other tomes about footballers The deeper into the bereaved family’s aching heart was through joining the Zion Christian Church. preted as an excuse from someone who once had it Curse of Teko Modise and Strike a Rock – The to learn that the murder had been motivated by a all, only to let it slip away in the end, all the while Thembi Kgatlana Story, Khanye’s biography – neighbour’s jealousy over seeing soccer’s rewards Later, having mournfully observed the ill-fated conscious, is perhaps objective since his re-born whose title was inspired by the star’s love for Kung filtering through to the Khanye family, resulting in young footballer’s life for a while, seasoned broad- version appears to speak from genuineness. Fu flicks – reads like a thriller that is the converse their upgrade to a brick house from a corrugated- caster Robert Marawa would be moved to bawl: iron shack, their modest home for a long time. “He crushed his dream only to resurrect himself!” A 250-page soft cover published by Tafelberg, Ghetto Ninja retails for R250.00. Poignantly, Surgent, Junior’s dad to whom the At the book’s launch at the Rosebank Mall

Friday 08 April 2022 FEATURES 11WEEKLY SA MIRROR MANY FREELANCE WORKERS CUT RATES TO SURVIVE COVID CRUNCH SALARY: Slightly more women freelancers earned above the average SURVEY: Researcher Jude Mathurine salary of R23 122 per month. By Isaac Moledi month. from a gig platform. • One in five freelancers increased their income ONE in five media freelancers increased their in- • Black freelancers are the lowest earners. • Most freelancers (63%) discount their rates at over the survey period. come during the 2020/2021 period and many of • About a quarter (28%) of all freelancers are them cut their rates to survive during the Cov- “polyjobbers” or “slashers” who freelance part- least some of the time – but especially during • More Safrea members earn higher than the av- id-19 pandemic. the pandemic. erage national monthly salary than nonSafrea time. • Freelancer earnings improve exponentially members. Two out of every three freelancers reported • One in five (22%) respondents have an account based on work experience in a primary speciali- According to Mathurine, freelancers use the re- losses of between 25% and 100% of their income. sation. This is according to the Southern African Freelanc- with a work-on-demand service like Upwork. • Few freelancers charge retainer fees or deposits. sults in this annual survey to benchmark their rates, ers’ Association (Safrea), which released its fifth an- • 4.5% of freelancers earn most of their income lobby for better pay and working conditions, and nual Southern African Freelance Media Industry and better understand the state of their industry. “As it Rates Report this week. This was during the national looks at hard facts – rates that respondents have ac- webinar where researcher, Jude Mathurine unpacked cepted in the past year – employers, media business- the key findings. es and researchers also use the results extensively.” The 2020/2021 report, which is a critical bench- Mathurine says since 2016, the survey has pro- marking tool for self-employed and parttime free- vided a service to the entire freelance profession in lancers in the communications industry, contains a the communications and media industry – including few firsts, according to Mathurine. The study cov- journalists, script writers, photographers, videog- ers a period marked by the turbulent influence of raphers, illustrators, graphic designers, translators, Covid-19 and the increased digital disruption in the editors and others media professionals. communications sector. “The survey is open to them, irrespective of “The study found that freelancers who were whether they are Safrea members or not,” says Ma- already oriented towards remote work and worked thurine. for industries that supported the Covid-19 response including health, information technology, science and education, were not as badly affected,” said Ma- thurine, who is a lecturer in the Media, Culture and Communications Department at Nelson Mandela University. Freelancers who supported vulnerable sectors like tourism, retail, hospitality, events and entertain- ment bore the brunt as their industries were crippled for months by successive lockdowns. Work from home regimes, including disruptions to education, meant that paid freelancing gigs had to be sacrificed for unpaid care work or home school- ing. Women were affected unequally in this equa- tion. However, the study also showed that women freelancers who earned above the average South Af- rican salary may have fared better than men. Mathurine says the study also confirms findings from other studies by BrandMapp and Old Mutual that employed South Africans are undertaking side hustles thereby increasing competition in the free- lance space. The Safrea report found that one in four freelancers (28%) are ‘side hustlers’ – having some form of employment and moonlighting as a free- lancer. New in this report, according to Mathurine, was the identification of the most popular customer relationship management, marketing and productiv- ity tools used by freelancers. The rates section of the report also introduces a new feature with a fair rate listing. “The ‘fair’ listing is an important addition to the report because low sample sizes in the past meant that the rates reported could be unrealistically low or high, depending on who participated. The ‘fair’ listing overcomes that,” said Lynne Smit, Safrea chairperson. Based on international re- search, the study suggests the prospect of an uptick in opportunities for media, marketing and commu- nication freelancers if more businesses follow the trend of reducing and outsourcing permanent labour to save costs. Mathurine says Upwork’s 2021 Fu- ture Workforce report found that remote work, due to the pandemic, led to 53% of businesses indicating their willingness to use freelancers. A Gartner Study found that a third of USA-based human resource leaders are looking at replacing full-time employees with “contingent” workers to save costs. “Freelanc- ers generally have little legal protection and carry the burden when agreements are cancelled. Few charge retainers and kill-fees when projects are shelved or mothballed. They seldom use the Small Claims Court and are reluctant to name and shame bad clients,” says Mathurine. KEY FINDINGS OF THE REPORT ARE : • Freelancing is the primary income source for 77% of the freelancers. • Slightly more women than men earned above the national average salary of R23 122 per

12 WEEKLY SA MIRROR MOTORING Friday 08 April 2022 MIX AND MATCH; You are what you drive takes on new meaning in the new Suzuki Vitara modernized two-tone exterior colours MOTORING:Briefs SUZUKI JOINS THE BIG FIVE MORE OF THE SAME FROM MERCEDES IN RECORD SALES: AUSTRALIA Fun and affordable brand punches way above its George Russell reckons Mercedes are in for weight a “very similar” experience at the Austral- ian Grand Prix, following their tough start By Ali Mphaki ENTRY LEVEL: The second generation Suzuko Celerio to the 2022 season. Ain’t no stopping Suzuki now, they on a move! FLAIR; The Suzuki S-Presso peppy and boast innovative features AWESOME; Size does not matter when it comes to the Suzuki Jimny Mercedes have found themselves cut Noticeable is the spring in the step of the company’s adrift of leaders Ferrari and Red Bull un- head honchos with smiles as wide as a raging Jukskei Riv- der Formula 1’s rules reset, with the W13 er, following a new domestic sales record of 3 347 units suffering from extreme porpoising and the for the month of March. performance of their power unit also com- ing under the spotlight. For a company at first thought to produce dull and dour vehicles which seem to have inherited the worst biological In Bahrain, Russell and teammate Lewis features from both parents, Suzuki have found that elusive Hamilton ran half a minute behind the lead formula of winning new friends while keeping old ones. Ferrari and Red Bull until a late Safety Car - and a double retirement for the lat- “It’s a simple formula”, says Brendon Carpenter, Su- ter team - gave the pair surprise third- and zuki SA brand marketing manager. fourth-place finishes. Next time out in Saudi Arabia, Hamilton suffered a shock Q1 elim- “Our vehicles are a budget-friendly combination of ination after a series of set-up experiments, driving performance and convenience,” he adds. with Russell left to lead Mercedes’ charge in a car that he estimated to be a second a lap Of interest to the Hamamatsu-based company in Japan, slower than the winning Red Bull. is that the unprecedented sales record sees Suzuki swoosh past the opposition to earn a top five position among South GM AND HONDA Africa’s best-selling brands. COLLABORATES FOR MASS EV PRODUCE Suzuki’s upward trajectory also comes at the back of the SA motor industry celebrating a return to pre-COVID General Motors and Honda Motor Co. plan sales levels in March. to co-develop a line of affordable electric vehicles, with a focus on compact crosso- The industry business council, Naamsa, reported on vers, starting in 2027. The automakers say Friday that the industry sold a combined 50 607 units in the collaboration will enable global produc- March., making it the best sales month for the entire in- tion of “millions” of EVs, including com- dustry since October 2019 and the start of the pandemic. pact crossovers. The vehicles will be based on a new global electric architecture pow- “March is traditionally a strong sales month for the ered by GM’s Ultium battery technology, South African Automobile Industry, which in conjunction GM and Honda said in a joint statement with a slightly healthier stock supply enabled a 16.5% in- Tuesday. crease in overall sales. GM and Honda will also aim to stand- “We are very happy to see the market perform so well, ardize equipment and processes for better because it signals a return to health for the industry, the quality, higher throughput and more af- dealer network and customers.” says Henno Havenga, fordable EVs for consumers. They also will manager for auto dealer sales at Suzuki Auto. discuss the potential to collaborate on EV battery technology to reduce the cost of While most popular vehicle brands had a good sales electrification and improve performance. month in March, Suzuki outperformed most with a new Both automakers have already set ambitious overall sales record, a new dealer sales record and a new EV targets. Honda aims to reach carbon record for the 2021/2022 financial year. neutrality on a global basis by 2050, and GM hopes to have an all-electric lineup by This is the brand’s fifth time in a mere seven months 2035. “By working together, we’ll put peo- that it managed to sell more than 3 000 units. ple all over the world into EVs faster than either company could achieve on its own,” While the dealer network was responsible for the li- GM CEO Mary Barra said in the statement. on’s share of Suzuki’s new vehicle sales, its fleet division also performed exceptionally well. In March, this division AFRICAN CARS FOR delivered 409 vehicles to government and rental fleet cus- AFRICA tomers. Nigerian automotive giant Innoson Vehicle The company ended its financial year with total sales Manufacturing (IVM), as part of its ex- of 31 048 units, a new record and a full 69% better. pansion drive, plans toestablish new plant • Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has been riding a in Owerri, Imo. The establishment of Imo plant is part of Innoson’s mission to become monstrous sales wave in the last three months, record- a giant in vehicle production in Africa. ing retail figures of 12,480, 13,458 and 15,008 in Janu- ary, February and March 2022 respectively. This also IVM’s current manual production plant means that TSAM currently enjoys an average market has the capacity to produce about 10,000 share of 30% after having posted 30.2%, 30.4% and vehicles annually. When it completes its mi- 29.7% in the last three months of 2022. gration to fully automated production plant, Once again, Hilux remains SA’s favourite vehicle with this will increase to about 60,000 annually. a sales total of 4,561, while the newly launched Co- rolla Cross was a top seller in the passenger segment Presently, IVM is producing vehicles with 2,384 units sold. for five African countries, including Sierra Leone, Mali, Congo, and Côte d’Ivoire. The Chairman of Innoson Group, Chief Inno- cent Chukwuma, said the establishment of the plant in Imo is part of efforts to actualise the company’s mission to become a giant in vehicle production in Africa. HITLER’S BULLET PROOF BENZ SOLD Billionaire and senate-hopeful Clive Palmer has reportedly purchased Adolf Hitler’s bul- letproof Mercedes-Benz as part of his bid to build a rare car museum. According to The Courier Mail, af- ter two years of negotiations to purchase the Mercedes-Benz 770 Grosser Offener Tourenwagen – known as the Super Mer- cedes – Mr Palmer has closed the deal and taken the vehicle off an unnamed Russian billionaire. After the end of World War II, the car was seized in France by the US mili- tary before it was purchased by an American billionaire. It has changed hands multiple times in the subsequent decades. According to The Courier Mail, Mr Palmer hopes to have 600 cars on rotation when he eventually finds somewhere to open his planned museum.

Friday 08 April 2022 FOOD AND WINE 13WEEKLY SA MIRROR GET CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH SA’S FINEST BUBBLIES CAP CLASSIQUE: Three-level course on different styles of local sparkling wine and accompanying etiquette set to unravel the intricacies of the genre... ACCOLADE: Nederburg’s Pieter Badenhorst and Jackie Olivier congratulate chef Moses Moloi (middle) after the Rising Star Award at the Luxe Restaurant Awards in Rosebank. CLASSIQUE: Graham Beck cellarmaster Pieter “Bubbles” Ferreira disgorges sediments from a bottle of bubbly in the cellar. By Len Maseko Cape Wine Academy principal Heidi Duminy pagne and Sparkling Wine module at the Univer- name Kaapse Vonkel (“Cape Sparkle”) in 1973, set- Having celebrated the 50th anniversary of South describes the course as “a fun and exciting interac- sity of Cape Town’s Graduate School of Business ting for the foundation for the future generation of Africa’s sparkling wine last year, a new chapter tive encounter with Cap Classique in a three-hour Michael Fridjhon Wine Judging Academy, which winemakers focusing on the genre numbering more is being pencilled with the launch of the first of session”. It focuses on the basics of South Africa’s started since in 2007. “This experience made me than 250 today. The newly launched Cap Classique a series of courses that will initiate wine lovers finest bubbles, practical service etiquette as well as aware of the gap that exists in understanding wine Academy is committed to teaching, training and into full culture of this ancient genre. a low-down on the various styles and expressions with bubbles in it. Each year we have managed to sharing the love of South Africa’s bottle fermented of the category. This course is aimed at anyone who improve the understanding of how to evaluate spar- bubbly in three levels of learning presented by the Thanks to a partnership between the Cap Clas- has the slightest curiosity in Cap Classique from kling wine with the emphasis on Cap Classique,” Cape Wine Academy. sique Producers’Association (CCPA), whose mem- complete beginners to enthusiastic lovers of bub- he says, “although the explosion of interest in the bers share a common passion for the effervescent bles according to Duminy. Two other higher-level category in recent years calls for a well-supported “This series of courses specialising in the art, wine, and the Cape Wine Academy. The course, ti- courses will be launched later this year. dedicated education platform.” science and appreciation of Cap Classique has tled first level Cap Classique First Star course, will been taking shape over quite some time and aligns be available from 23 April in Johannesburg, Cape A brainchild of Pieter ‘Bubbles’ Ferreira, Chair With more than 10 million bottles produced perfectly with the Cape Wine Academy’s goal to Town as well as on offer for private bookings for of the Cap Classique Association, the educational annually, there is no doubt that Cap Classique has advance South African wine education. Together eight people or more at R795 per person. initiative is a response to “a tremendous growing carved the niche for itself – alongside esteemed with Pieter and the Cap Classique Association, we interest” in the Cap Classique category. Champagnes and Proseccos of this world. The lo- have shared ideas and expertise to present an excit- The CCPA was established in 1992 to promote cal genre celebrated 50 years last year, saluting the ing three-tier journey through the constellation of South Africa’s premium bubbly, which is made ac- “There is far more to Cap Classique than meets pioneering efforts of legendary Stellenbosch win- Cap Classique starting with this Level 1 First Star cording to the traditional Champagne method (Mé- the eye! Trust me. Just stylistically there are so emaker Frans Malan who, after visiting the Cham- course,” says Duminy. thode Champenoise). Since they are barred by the many variables,” says Pieter. “There is so much to pagne region of France in 1968, crafted the first French to call the local version of bubbly Cham- learn about the intricacies of Cap Classique and dis- bubbly made according to the Champagne method Details and dates of all courses can be found pagne, they have opted to use Cap Classique as a cerning the diverse styles that have emerged since upon his return to South Africa. on the Cape Wine Academy website, www.capewi- generic term to describe these wines, all to ensure 1971 when the first Cap Classique was produced.” neacademy.co.za as well as on the Cap Classique its recognition both locally and international. Malan, owner of the famous Simonsig Estate Producer’s Association website www.capclassique. Ferreira got a brainwave to launch the educa- in Stellenbosch, released his first bubble under the co.za. tion drive following his presentation of the Cham- EVENTS IN BRIEF WORLD’S FINEST BUBBLIES selected to host the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs lunch tasting of the 31-year-old Stellenryck Cabernet and live music entertainment. UP FOR TASTING on April 24. Sauvignon 1991. FOOD AND WINE FIESTA AWAITS VISITORS TO FEST Bubbly lovers are in for a great treat at the Johan- Chaîne des Rôtisseurs (which means ‘brother- Lahodey says the wine is no longer on the nesburg Cap Classique & Champagne Festival hood of roasters’) is a global community whose market but guests will be able to taste this rare The annual Pick n Pay Wine & Food Festival 2022 today and tomorrow, when doors open at the focus is brotherhood, friendship, camaraderie and wine to the accompaniment of exquisite dinner at will be packed with two days fun when it sets up Inanda Polo Club in Sandton at 11am. sharing a passion for the culinary arts. Headquar- a cost R650 per person. An auction will be held af- at Kenilworth Racecourse, Cape Town on April tered in Paris, the Chaîne has active members ter the dinner. Contact [email protected]. 30 and May 1. Hosted by the Cap Classique Producers’ As- in 80 countries with South African gastronomes sociation, the event is sponsored by Sanlam Pri- starting their own branch or bailliage in 1981. SA’S FINEST FARE TO BE ON SHOW Taste your way through a vast selection of vate Wealth and will feature some of South Africa The annual Pinotage & Biltong Festival 2022 Cape Winelands wines. Discover a world of finest Méthode Cap Classiques (MCC) as well as The Johannesburg bailliage has selected Cli- returns after a two-year hiatus on April 23 and 24, award-winning wines and delicious food. a selection of France’s best Champagnes and lead- co as the restaurant for their White Party themed and venue this year is Perdeberg Wines in Paarl. ing Italian Proseccos. Brands include L’Ormarins, April event which is a celebration of World Organiser Bjorn van Oort promises plenty of Siwela Wines, Bon Courage, La Bri, Graham Chaine Day, for which a menu has been created Pinotage in a range of fizz, white, red, rosé, and Beck, Taittinger, Bollinger, Nicolas Feuillatte. exclusively by Executive Chef Davies Moagi and sweet styles, each paired with a different biltong wine pairings by the boutique hotel’s resident flavour from Namaqualand Biltong.Burgers, piz- Tickets cost R395 per person and include a sommelier, Sandile Mavuso. zas and quick and easy meals will be available. glass as well as 10 tasting coupons. Dress theme Guy Feldman will take care of live entertain- is blue and white. The event starts 11am and ends Non-members are welcome to book their ment with groovy covers from bands such as Dire at 4pm. place at R950 a person and members R870 per Straits, Pink Floyd, The Police and much, much person. more. CLICO HOTEL TO HOST SOUTH AFRICAN Tickets range between R300 and R550, and GASTRONOMES THIRTY-ONE-YEAR-OLD CAB include a branded crystal wine glass, a biltong cup HEADLINES DINNER and a pairing card for the curated Pinotage and The month of April is a busy one at Clico biltong pairings, all Pinotage and biltong pairings, Boutique Hotel, Restaurant & Conferencing. As a Preeminent gastronome Germain Lahodey is member of Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, Clico has been hosting a special dinner at Ivory Manor Hotel in Pretoria on April 29, to be spiced up by the special

14 WEEKLY SA MIRROR SPORT Friday 08 April 2022 SINGAPORE PUTS SMILE ON BLITZBOKS BITTERSWEET: The April 2019 win still ADAPTATION: Blitzbok Siviwe Soyizwapi fresh in their memories relishes the challenge Own Correspondent in the semi-final against the USA and could not Reflection is good, but will not help this team-mates, it was all about adapting to the new A few Springbok Sevens players arrived in play against Fiji in the final,” he recalls. weekend, where Canada, Kenya and the USA time zones, humidity and getting their mindset Singapore on Monday on their maiden voy- await the Blitzboks in Pool A – not even if you ready for their first game on the opening day of age to the HSBC Singapore Sevens and even “It is a bittersweet memory as such, as one are on the second-best winning streak ever in the the tournament. for some of the more experienced players, always wants to be on the field, especially in a HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series history. April 2019 is still fresh in their memories, even final like that – those are the games you dream of “We love to be challenged and being put out though it was two years ago. and train for. “We cannot expect anything coming our way of our comfort zones, this is what makes us better that we are not prepared to work for, it is as sim- as people and as a team,” he said. That was the last time the popular tournament That said, it was still wonderful to be part of ple as that,” explained Soyizwapi. at the National Stadium took place, and very few the win, even though I was on the side of the field “For that reason, I was quite pleased to see of the players have forgotten the memorable end- and not on it with the boys.” “We have been on the winning side in 34 how we adapted already with regards to the time ing to that tournament, as the Blitzboks came matches, but that is something of the past. It was zone difference and the heat and what effort the back from being 19-0 down in the final against Two years is a long time, but Soyizwapi also something we had to address, as it is all over guys are showing in training since arrival. It is Fiji to clinch victory by one point, 20-19. reckons is does not feel that long ago since they the media and many questions on the topic reflect good to see that we are embracing those challeng- played in the humidity of Singapore. that fact. es, there were no excuses and we hit the ground Springbok Sevens skipper, Siviwe Soyizwa- running.” pi, certainly recalls that match – as well as a num- “A lot of the surroundings are the same, “So, there was no way we wanted it to be- Blitzbok fixtures – Saturday, 9 April (SA time) ber of other familiar surroundings in Singapore the humidity, the friendly hosts around you, the come an elephant in the room for us. It might be – with a huge smile. amazing facilities,” he said. a big focus out there, but it is not our focus. We 06h34: Canada spoke about it and then put it aside and I am con- 09h40: Kenya “I was not part of that match as I got injured “No wonder this was always one of the fa- fident that it will not be an issue this weekend.” 13h33: USAe.” vourite destinations for us as a team and the fact that the result went our way last time, made it For Soyizwapi and the rest of his Blitzbok even more so.” LERATO HAS Originally with five divisions, from the Under 11s, TRUE LOVE FOR 13, 15, 17 and the senior team, it pains DiMaolady see her club haemorraghing before her eyes FOOTBALL This year she only has one division left – the TEAM OWNER: Daughter of legendary golfer senior team. The other divisions were “poached” by a rival team, with “better” incentives. Other Cox Hlapo soldiers on in her quest to bring meaning challenges come with training venues for her team, what with the suburb of Dube boasting a single and hopeful dreams to youth in her township soccer ground, By Ali Mphaki salaries should be included as an economic indi- A former amateur tennis player, DiMaolady is cator and be part of a country’s GDP. Now if pro also a staunch supporter of pro outfit Swallows FC STOIC: Dube Swai Swai owner Lerato Mathiba It is an all-too familiar tale – club owner strug- teams are barely making it, the situation should from its Moroka Swallows days, which perhaps ex- undeterred by challenges of running own team gles with team. Examples abound, the most re- be dire for clubs in the amateur ranks, the bulk of plains the name of her own club. cent the buying of Bloemfontein Celtic by MaM- whom have no sponsorship, endorsements etc. khize rebaptising the whole ensemble to Royal She giggle with a shrug when asked if she could AM FC. Whatever struggles faced by Lerato Mathiba, play golf like her father, preferring to say her first founder and boss of amateur soccer club Dube love was football. “Having neighbor friends like “It was just unsustainable,” was the epitaph Swai Swai, are not unique. But it is her resilience former Moroka Swallows midfield dynamo Alfred from former Celtic owner Max Tshabalala. Ask that is commendable. “KK’ Lentsoane also helped nurture my love for any soccer boss in the DStv Premiership and will football as he would from time to time invite us to tell you: The daughter of the late legendary golfer Si- come watch him play,” she says. mon “Cox” Hlapo, DiMaolady, as Mathiba is “There is no money in football.’ “We just doing known, it is always a struggle when the team has No doubt unhappy that her beloved Swallows it for the love of it.” Take the salary bills of outfits to go honour their fixtures. Every weekend she has FC are tottering near bottom of the DStv Premier- like Mamelodi Sundowns, Kaizer Chiefs etc, to part with close to a thousand rand, all from her ship log, but it is the challenges faced by her own meagre pension salary and the goodwill of family, Dube Swai Swai that are likely to affect her blood It is obvious you need to have deep pockets to friends, and associates. pressure. Her dream is to see Dube Swai Swai fi- run a successful soccer club. Players like Keagan nally making it to pro side. Lerato’s father Bra Cox, Dolly, Peter Shalulile, Khama Billiat, command Broken down she pays R400 for a Quantum, as he was affectionately known, was a name that huge salaries running into millions per month. R250 referee’s fees, etc Dube Swai Swai, a cor- showed up on every leaderboard. He dominated the ruption of Swallows, celebrates 12 years this year. game of golf not only with his aggressive style of One economist even went to suggest players’ play but with his uncompromising personality. This was at a time when so-called “non-white” golfers were forced by the political laws of the time to have separate tournaments. Bra Cox has won no fewer than 18 tournaments in South Africa includ- ing the Non-European in 1955, 57, 58, and 59. His last major win was the Luyt Lager Tour- nament in 1972, and when most of his peers had given up competitive golf, he won the 3M Classic at the Soweto Country Club in 1983. He died aged 62 in 1986. Lerato can be con- tacted on 082 478 5711 or on (011) 983 9130.

Friday 08 April 2022 SPORT 15WEEKLY SA MIRROR SPORTS: Briefs HAK BANYANA BANYANA PRE- VRYSTAAT! PARES FOR DOUBLE DUTCH SHOWDOWN: The SA The South African Senior Women’s national middleweight title is up for grabs in team (Banyana Banyana) has assembled for first boxing tourney in the Free State camp in Johannesburg ahead of an away Inter- national Friendly encounter with the Netherlands SECOND TIME AROUND; Challenger John Bogape,left, and Women’s team on Tuesday, April 12, 2022. Ban- champ Nkululeko “Bulldog” Mhlongo yana Banyana last got together in February when they beat Algeria 3-1 on aggregate in an Africa By Pule Mokhine won by the “Bulldog” himself. Kaptein against Junior Makhondo. Both are from Women’s Cup of Nations (AWCON) qualifier to The easing of the dreaded lockdown has There have not been any big sporting events Bloemfontein. Mahoko said the contest would be be hosted in Morocco later this year. The friendly brought back smiles on the faces of many fans made up of six bouts with two which featuring fe- match will serve as part of the preparations for as they will once again fill up the sports venues in the entire country that attracted massive Now male pugilists. the tournament that will be played in Morocco. to watch their favorite heroes in action without crowds in the past two years as a result of the hard Speaking ahead of the match against the fifth any restriction as a result of the Covid 19. lockdown that restricted fans from attending sport- The first ladies bout will be featuring the cur- ranked Netherlands, Banyana Banyana coach ing activities. rent SA and WBF champion Matshidiso “Scorpion Desiree Ellis said facing tougher opponents will Fans will now be able to emerge from their co- Queen” Mokebisi against challenger Cecilia Peti- test her players’ mental strength. coons and come back in droves at different venues Free State, through its prominent boxing pro- seni from Zimbabawe. Both will clash over eight to watch their favorites sports. moter Lebo Mahoko before the pandemic, has be- rounds, “It won’t only be part of the preparations come a leading province that showcased top-class for AFCON but it is also an opportunity to be Boxing will once more take centre stage when matchups that have enthralled fans. This gesture The second bout will feature Nosiacwase tested against high level opponents, to assess if throngs of fans come back to shout their voices has put boxing on the map to mark important dates “Golden Girl” Dube against Sehliselwe Nhliziyo the players have the necessary mental strength hoarse in support of their heroes and heroines as on the calendar like the Macufe Festival. But this , also from Zimbabwe. to stay focused despite not playing any league they slug it out inside the square jungle. has not materialized for the past two years. matches,” said Ellis. But it is the main bout featuring champ Mh- For the Free State province, it will be a matter So with the doors of sporting venues now longo against Bopape that promises to be gripping KEVIN LERENA MOVES UP of extreme jubilation for the lovers of the sport of swinging wide open for supporters, Lehoko is affair that will get fans on the edge of their seats. THE WBA RANKS the the fisticuffs as the Dream Team will partner spoilt for choice to make his forthcoming event with the Free State Sports Foundation and the Free a resounding success like he has done before the With masks now out of the mouths of fans, After his fourth-round stoppage win over the State of Sport will be hosting its first boxing tour- lockdown. they will now be able to scream their lungs out in much heavier and bigger Bogdan Dinu of Roma- nament this year. The event will be held at a venue support of the boxers throughout the tournament. nia at Emperors Palace near Kempton Park last to be announced in celebration of Freedom Day on “Boxing-loving people of the Free State have THE REST OF THE BILL: Saturday night, for the vacant WBA Interconti- April 29. been yearning to attend big fights in large num- nental heavyweight title it has been reported that bers for the past two years. The relaxation of the Doctor Ntsele vs Mawande Mbusi the WBA have now listed South Africa’s Kevin Topping the bill of what is likely to be a block- lockdowns will now give them a chance to enjoy (junior featherweight, six rds); Lerena at No 13 in their latest heavyweight rank- buster showdown will be the SA middleweight ti- top-drawer boxing in their province and enjoy the Binganni Nocele vs Sizwe Boyela ings. tle which will be defended by the current national Freedom Day,” says Mahoko. (bantamweight, six rounds) champion Nkululeko “Bulldog” Mhlongo and his Nosiacaswe Dube vs Sehliselwe Nhliziyo The 35-year Dinu 20-4; 16 who at one time challenger John Bopape. “We felt it necessary to stage the rematch be- (junior featherweight, six rounds) was rated at No 3 heavyweight in the world by tween Mhlongo and Bopape because their match is Kagiso Hlungwani vs Mergan King the WBA, came to South Africa with good cre- This will be an intriguing rematch between explosive as they will bring excitement in the ring (cruiserweight, four rounds) dentials, with only three losses on his record both fighters who will most definitely offer fans as they did in their previous bout. Besides, fans Musxa Ntlangula vs Mfanuvele Ntuli against top heavyweights like Jarrell Miller, Ku- top-class entertainment in the ring in terms of indi- have been yearning to attend boxing matches and (flyweight, four rounds) brat Pulev and Daniel Dubois who is currently vidual skills. They will be meeting for the second this kind of a tournament will bring joy.” Vuyani Kosana vs Giresse Wingui rated at No 1 by the WBA. Speaking to promoter time with their previous encounter having been (middleweight, fpur rounds) Rodney Berman of Golden Gloves Promotions The main supporting bout will be an eight he mentioned that he is at present negotiating for -round junior middleweight bout featuring Jackson a possible heavyweight fight for Lerena in the United Kingdom in August and then again in No- MOMENTUM vember at Emperors Palace. PROTEAS’ DU PREEZ RETIRES Looking through the latest WBA heavyweight FROM ODI CRICKET ratings Oleksandr Usyk is the super champion and Trevor Bryan the secondary champion. The CALLING IT A DAY: Former SA captain to TRUE MBOKODO; Momen- other fighters listed from No 1 to twelve, above concentrate on T20 and spend more time with family tum Proteas batter, Mignon Lerena at thirteen are Daniel Dubois, Michael du Preez a true example for Hunter, Robert Helenius, Hughie Fury, Anthony any young girl who wants to Joshua, Deontay Wilder, Agit Kabayel, Arslan- bek Makhmudov, Zhan Kossobutskiy, Martin take up cricket Bankole, Andy Ruiz Jr. and Joseph Parker. OWN CORRESPONDENT away and allow the next generation of exciting The electric right-handed batter ends her 50- NGUBENI AND GELANT RE- Momentum Proteas batter, Mignon du Preez cricketers to continue to grow this beautiful game over career as South Africa’s leading run-scorer TURN FOR THE STORMERS/ has announced her retirement from One-Day of ours. “I would like to take a moment to thank with 3,760 runs at an average of 32.98, with 18 BULLS DERBY International as well as Test cricket with im- everyone at Cricket South Africa and the Board half-centuries and two centuries, including a high mediate effect. for their continuous support during my ODI ca- score of 116 not out against Ireland in 2016. Warrick Gelant and Scarra Ntubeni will both re- reer. I am extremely grateful for the honour to turn from injury for the Stormers in the Vodacom Following the recently concluded 2022 ICC have represented my country in 154 ODI games In this year’s World Cup, Du Preez notched United Rugby Championship derby against the Women’s Cricket World Cup, the former South and also for the opportunity to have captained my up her 150th appearance against New Zealand Vodacom Bulls in Cape Town on Saturday. There African captain has confirmed she is calling it a country at the highest level. and scored her last fifty in ODI cricket in what are three changes to the forward pack and one day in 50-over cricket and the longer format of will go down as a World Cup classic, where she in the backline for the north-south clash. In the the game in favour of concentrating on T20 crick- “To our team sponsor Momentum and all our guided South Africa to a historic run chase against front row, hooker Scarra Ntubeni returns from in- et and spending more time with family. fans, thank you for your continuous support. India in Christchurch. jury and there is a rotational switch at tighthead prop, with Neethling Fouche starting and Frans Her statement is as follows: “I’ve been won- “Lastly, I would like to thank our manage- Pholetsi Moseki, Cricket South Africa (CSA) Malherbe set to make an impact in the second derfully fortunate to play in four ICC ODI World ment and my teammates for making my ODI Chief Executive Officer said, “Mignon is a cham- half. Cups to date. These have been some of my most journey a memorable one.” pion of women’s cricket in South Africa and the treasured memories in life. I would however love world at large. A true example for any young girl Deon Fourie is back in the starting lineup on to prioritise time with my family and hopefully Slight in stature but brimming with passion who wants to take up the sport; that anything is the flank while, in the only change to the back- start a family of my own soon. “I feel the time is for the game of cricket, Du Preez will always be possible through dedication, determination, and line, Herschel Jantjies starts at scrumhalf. War- right to announce my retirement from the longer synonymous with the Proteas Women’s journey ever-lasting inquisitiveness to your craft while rick Gelant is also set to return from a replace- format of the game and focus my attention on T20 from a budding team to a world-renowned side maintaining kindness and humility. ments bench, which also features Brok Harris cricket going forward. Thus, I decided to retire currently ranked second in the one-day format. and Junior Pokomela this week. from ODI cricket at the completion of our recent “Although CSA is saddened by her departure World Cup in New Zealand. The 32-year old made her international de- from the longer formats of the game after more CHELSEA SALE LATEST but in 2007 as a teenager and went on to don the than 150 caps and 3,000 runs, we will take solace “I feel South African women’s cricket is in green and gold in 154 ODI matches, including from the legacy she leaves behind and await with With less than a week until final bids for Chel- a very healthy state and the time is right to step a ground-breaking reign as captain in 46 ODIs, pleasure to witness how she will continue contrib- sea must be submitted, the Ricketts family were where the team also transitioned into a fully con- uting to the game she holds so dear to her heart. once again in London this week for further talks tracted outfit. regarding their bid - but they did not hang around for long after. Tom and Laura Ricketts met the Chelsea hierarchy on Tuesday as they look to persuade the decisive members that their bid is better than those of Todd Boehly’s consortium, Steve Pagliuca or Sir Martin Broughton’s con- sortium. All four parties made it through the first round of bidding and must now submit their fi- nal offers by April 11. Some Chelsea fans have been passionately critical of the Ricketts family after islamaphobic comments from Joe Ricketts came to light in which he branded Muslims “his enemy” in leaked emails. Despite Joe not being involved in the bid, it sparked protests by sup- porters who felt the comments should rule them out of the running.

MIRROR SPORTWEEKLY SA Insight to connect the dots... LAST MILE FOR THOBEJANE? BEWILDERED: COACH’S FUTURE AT BAKGAGA FAST REACHING SELL-BY-DATE By Ali Mphaki as hollow as the sound of an empty beer It’s a long way back to the Mogo- can rolling down the street. dumo Primary School in Lebowak- gomo, Limpopo, where Kholoko When he resumed the hot seat in Thobejane staged a chalk down and November last year, he promised to left the teaching profession to follow “save” Baroka. his other passion of football coach those many moons ago in 2015. This week Thobejane was at it again, and like the ANC, promising The act may not have been as dra- “self- correction” and to “deliver”, as matic as Tony Montana (Al Pacino) quoted in the local media. abandoning his dish washing job in the movie Scarface, but the motivation Probably lulling him to a false sense could have been similar, what with the of security are the diplomatic words eternal words “the world is yours” ring- from boss Khurisi Mphahlele that he ing in Thobejane’s ears ahead of his has “full confidence” in Thobejane. new-found career. It may be worth the while to remind The former teacher of controversial Thobejane that in football, unlike in the subject Life Orientation Skills, after a maritime world, there is no dictate that bright and promising start to his coach- “the captain goes down with the ship.” ing sojourn, seem to have lost the plot. Waking up this morning to ponder Famed for his quote “football will what lies ahead, Thobejane could not kill you”, for some observers, however, have wished for a more daunting oppo- it is Thobejane himself who is “killing” nent when he faces Marumo Gallants in Baroka. . a Nedbank quarterfinal encounter Sat- urday evening. Try as he might, Thobejane has not been able to produce expected out- Only a win will ensure he stalls, comes as his charges at Baroka contin- even if just temporary, his fast ap- ue to stutter and stumble proaching sell-by-date at Bakgaga. His motivation skills and teaching Despite protestations to the con- methods so far have been unable to pro- trary, not-so-reliable sources intimate duce expected outcomes. that. Thobejane’s letter of termination of service might have already found its Why Thobejane has only managed way into the out-tray of boss Mphahl- two wins from 13 league games he has ele’s desk. been in charge of - suffering eight de- feats and three draws, there can be no The strain is already showing on mitigating factors. Thobejane’s face, having aged consid- erably in the past three months. And with seven matches to go be- fore the end of the season, his stated The ball is in Mphahlele’s court to intentions that he will “save” Baroka is save Thobejane. It cannot be that Mphahlele would allow football to “kill” Thobejane, with Baroka as “collateral” damage. QUO VADIS: Baroka FC coach Kgoloko Thobejane on knife edge