TrendySA Online

KWAZULU-NATAL - South Africa's first Black nuclear scientist, Senamile Masango (37) has been laid to rest today, Saturday, 15 February, in Nongoma, north of KwaZulu-Natal. The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation SA confirmed her untimely passing last week. Her family and the South African Government paid their last respects earlier. "Ms Masango's was a beacon of hope for many young people, especially women. Her passion for developing critical skills among the population and women in science in particular, will be sorely missed," said the Chairperson of the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC), Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile after learning about Senamile's sudden death. TrendySA Online conveys its condolences to the family, colleagues and friends of Senamile Masango.

DURBAN - The KWAZULU-Natal Department of Health is concerned and calling for calm, following  recent confirmed cases of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) at several primary schools and daycare centres in the north of Durban.  The first six cases were reported between the 6th and 10th of February. Since then, the number of confirmed cases has risen to 36. The affected learning facilities are in Phoenix, Greenwood Park, and Umhlanga. An outreach team from the Department visited the nine affected schools to investigate the outbreak. In all instances, the learners were found to be suffering from flu-like symptoms, as well as blisters, and swollen hands. The children’s parents were called by the school principal to come and pick them up. The Department would like to emphasise the importance of maintaining good health and cleanliness, which includes frequent hand washing, no sharing of utensils (such as cutlery, cups, and toothbrushes), and opening windows to allow fo...

PRETORIA - The Ministers of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi and Social Development, Nokuzola Tolashe, has confirmed that the deadline for beneficiaries to swop their gold SASSA card for the black Postbank card has been extended from 28 February to 20 March 2025. "We have listened to the deep concerns and frustrations from our social grant beneficiaries and we trust that this extension will provide much needed time for grant recipients. "We strongly encourage our beneficiaries to make sure that they change to the black Postbank card as soon as they can, and well ahead of the 20 March 2025 deadline," said Malatsi. "We would like to emphasise that grant payments will continue as per usual, even after the 20th of March deadline. If beneficiaries haven't exchanged their cards by then, their grants will still be paid, but they will need to visit their nearest Post Office branch to access their funds." To make sure that the depar...

KWAZULU-NATAL - Valentine's Day took a tragic turn for a Howick family after the drowning incident of a 2 year old toddler. Midlands EMS Howick Search and Rescue Unit, accompanied by K9 Hunter, along with an Advanced Life Support paramedic and crew, were dispatched to Braemar Crescent in Howick following reports of a child found floating in a swimming pool. Upon arrival, paramedics and rescue medics assessed the two-year-old child, who unfortunately showed no signs of life and was declared deceased on the scene. The scene was left in the hands of law enforcement authorities to probe the incident. This is a developing story.

HOUGHTON - Former Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Member of Parliament (MP) and spokesperson Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi has been unveiled as the new host for Power Talk on Power FM. Ndlozi, who recently resigned as a EFF, debut on the airwaves from 3 March. The former EFF MP accepted Power FM boss Given Mkhari’s proposal to join the station as the host of the show on Friday, 14 February, during a special show hosted by MSG Africa chairperson Given Mkhari. The station confirmed the news by welcoming Ndlozi into the Power family. Although this career move has been met with criticism, ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula congratulated Ndlozi. "Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi a symbol of decency and decorum all the best with his future endevours. Mbuyiseni Quintin Ndlozi," he said. Power Talk airs weekdays from 9am-12pm.

JOHANNESBURG - This Valentine's Day, the City of Johannesburg invites residents to celebrate love in its vibrant parks, cultural hubs, and serene libraries. With countless romantic spots, Joburg offers the perfect setting to create unforgettable memories. Take a hand-in-hand stroll through lush parks like the tranquil Johannesburg Botanical Garden or scenic Delta Park. Pack a picnic for a magical Northcliff Hill view or find a quiet spot where nature sets the mood. For a wild twist, visit the Joburg Zoo and unleash that animal attraction. The Zoo is celebrating the month of love by offering a “Get a free entry for your significant other" on Valentine's Day, 14 February 2025, only. With ample space for romantic picnics, and long strolls, the zoo is the perfect place to spend with the one you love. Bring along your picnic basket, blankies, and camp chairs. Named the world's second-best foodie destination by Time Out in 2024, Joburg is a culinary paradise. Fr...

GAUTENG - During the 2025 Online Admissions placement period, the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) held a media briefing on Sunday, 15 September 2024, where the placement process was extensively explained, says GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona. He added that a media statement from the same presentation made during the briefing was issued on the same day, and the GDE clearly stated that it had identified schools that received an overwhelming number of applications which exceeds the capacity of learners that they are able to accommodate.  "Such schools are regarded as high pressure schools, and the areas they reside in were termed as high-pressure areas," said Mabona. "292 Primary Schools and 277 Secondary Schools in the province were regarded as high-pressure schools. An example of such schools would be Laerskool Akasia which had the capacity to place only 240 Grade 1 learners but received 1 475 Grade 1 applications. An example for secondary schools would be...

PRETORIA - "Our nation is in mourning for these brave souls who lost their lives in defence of our brothers and sisters in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo."  These were the somber words by President Cyril Ramaphosa as he delivered his address during the memorial and handover of the remains of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) troops who were killed in Eastern DRC. Ramaphosa continued,  "On behalf of all the people of South Africa, I offer my profound and deepest sympathies to the families of our fallen soldiers. "They lost their lives in the name of duty, in pursuit of peace and in the cause of silencing the guns across our beloved continent Africa. "They lost their lives in defence of the defenceless". The fallen troops (Sons of the African soil, Amaqhawe) are: Staff Sergeant William Eddie Cola  Staff Sergeant Molahlehi Ishmael Molahlehi  Staff Sergeant Shwahlane Theophilus Seepe  Corporal Matome Justice Malesa  Corpora...

PRETORIA - The remains of the 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers who died in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have finally returned home and will be handed over to their families this evening. The memorial service in honour of the soldiers is held today, Thursday, 13 February 2025, at the Air Force Base Swartkop in Johannesburg from 6 pm. The troops lost their lives at the hands of the M23 as fighting in the Goma region escalated.  The rebel group fought intensely against the Congolese armed forces, resulting in the deaths of soldiers from 23 to 27 January during M23’s advance on Sake and Goma.  The soldiers are part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC), which aims to help restore peace, security, and stability in Africa’s second-largest country.  Families have been eagerly awaiting their loved ones after multiple delays, including medical processing in Uganda....

CAPE TOWN - The Portfolio Committee on Social Development has urged SASSA to extend the 28 February 2025 deadline for gold card replacements, the Department of Social Development reported. The Committee has warned that failure to do so could disrupt payments for vulnerable beneficiaries, especially in rural areas. The Committee also demanded the following: * Committee demands a clear action plan from SASSA within 24 hours * Call for more service centres to improve accessibility * SASSA assures that nearly 1 million beneficiaries have already transitioned This is a developing story.

KEMPTON PARK - Clarise De Lange-Williams, a councillor in the City of Ekurhuleni was officially sworn in as the new Chairperson of the Finance Oversight Committee in the City of Ekurhuleni Legislature on Monday, 10 February. Cllr. De Lange-Willams was elected for the position in the Ordinary Council meeting that took place on 30 January. The swearing in ceremony was done in accordance with Rule 11 (1) , (2) and (3) of the City of Ekurhuleni Standing Orders By-Law. These rules make provision for Councillors to swear or affirm their faithfulness and obedience to the Republic, the Constitution and Council before the magistrate in a Council meeting; or at any time by arrangement before the Speaker in the Speaker’s Office.

PRETORIA – The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has notified the public of the adjustment to the toll tariffs effective from 1 March 2025. The tariffs are adjusted annually in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) as obtained from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA), according to SANRAL. The annual toll tariffs will increase by 4.84%, as published in the Government Gazette of 7 February 2025. This rate is less than last year’s 6.25% adjustment. SANRAL’s General Manager for Communications and Marketing, Vusi Mona, explained that toll revenue is necessary to maintain, operate and improve toll roads, as well as to service debt incurred to implement a toll road project. “The funds go a long way towards ensuring that SANRAL fulfils its mandate of delivering quality road infrastructure that adds value to the lives of South African citizens,” said Mona. He also said that key economic infrastructure, such as the national road network, is a precondition for...

MPUMALANGA - National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) is investigating the brutal killing of a male Chacma baboon, affectionately known as “Raygun,” who was chased at Botleng Secondary School in Delmas, Mpumalanga, beaten, and set alight last week. According to the NSPCA, Raygun’s body was later mutilated, with his hands, feet, head and heart cut from his body. The NSPCA is offering a R20,000 reward for information leading to a successful conviction, relating to those who were involved in harming Raygun and the origin of the video footage, and urges those who filmed the attack to come forward. Videos circulating online went viral on Friday, 07 February 2025.  Despite the footage, the school management refuses to identify those responsible.  After consulting with the school management, who are responsible for the approximately 1,800 children on the property, it became clear that this case is deeply rooted in superstition regarding baboons used in witchcraft.  The NSPC...

CAPE TOWN - International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, has dismissed the proposal to withdraw South African soldiers from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), stating that this action would be worse than surrender. Lamola addressed Parliament during an urgent debate regarding the deployment of South African troops to the DRC.  This special session was called following the deaths of 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers in the eastern part of the DRC, as families await the repatriation of their loved ones. “Abrupt withdrawal as called upon by some in the House is not even a tactical retreat, it is even worse than a surrender as with the number [of] armed groups in the area, there lies ambush,” he said.  Lamola stated that the South African government welcomes comments of the leaders of the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) and the East Africa Community (EAC), who called for a ceasefire and dialogue in the DRC ov...

LIMPOPO - MEC for Social Development in Limpopo, Florence Radzilani, handed over 180 school uniforms to learners from different schools as part of the SASSA Learner Support Program at Regorogile Community Hall, Thabazimbi Local Municipality. The MEC was joined by the Mayor of Thabazimbi Local Municipality, Cllr Pilane Tumisang, Cllr Moatshe Dipuo, representing the Executive Mayor of Waterberg District, ward councilor Tshukudu , Sesoma and SASSA officials on Tuesday, 11 February. MEC Radzilani urged parents to be more involved in their children's educational journey and encouraged them to assume greater responsibility for raising their children in a proper and courteous manner. "It is your responsibility to make sure that your child attends school regularly as the government is providing the necessary social support," emphasized Radzilani.

EKURHULENI - “Good governance is the foundation upon which all progress is built. If we fail in governance, we fail in service delivery” - City of Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Alderman Nkosindiphile Xhakaza cautioned.  Speaking in Council, Xhakaza said: “We must lead with integrity, hold ourselves accountable, and ensure that every decision we take benefits the people of Ekurhuleni.”  The first citizen committed the current administration to: * Strengthening anti-corruption measures to root out fraud, nepotism, and maladministration; * Enhancing community engagement, ensuring that residents have a voice in municipal decisions; * Improving responsiveness of municipal departments, cutting red tape and accelerating service delivery; and * Conduct regular performance evaluations for senior officials, ensuring that every leader is accountable for their responsibilities.  “As we navigate the evolving financial landscape of our city, we remain committed to prudent fisc...

PRETORIA - South Africa's first Black nuclear scientist, Senamile Masango (37) passed away over the weekend, the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation SA confirmed. Her untimely passing has left the South African Government reeling in shock. The Chairperson of the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC), Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile received with sadness news of the passing of Senamile, a member of the HRDC, South Africa's first black nuclear scientist on 9 February. "Ms Masango's was a beacon of hope for many young people, especially women. Her passion for developing critical skills among the population and women in science in particular, will be sorely missed," said the Deputy President.  Funeral arrangements are yet to be confirmed.

  GAUTENG - The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and Postbank appeal to social grant beneficiaries to replace their SASSA Gold Cards with the new Postbank Black Cards by 28 February 2025.  All current gold SASSA cards will stop working on 28 February 2025, irrespective of the expiry date written on the card. "Please go to your nearest Postbank site, which is mainly located at one of the retailers near you that include Checkers, Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Usave and Boxer to get your Postbank Black Card. "To get the new Postbank Black Cards, beneficiaries are only required to have a valid South African ID or a temporary ID. No card will be issued without these documents," SASSA urged. The social grant beneficiaries are reminded that Postbank Black Cards will be issued free of charge. For further enquiries please contact Postbank on 0800 53 54 55 or SASSA on 0800 60 10 11.

JOHANNESBURG - A total of 129 motorists were arrested by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officers for driving under the influence of alcohol from the 3rd of February 2025 to the 9th of February 2025.  According to JMPD, these arrests were conducted through roadside checks and roadblocks, attending to complaints, and enforcing the law. Driving under the influence is extremely dangerous and not only places the drivers in danger but also other road users. The outcomes of drunk driving are usually disastrous, from serious to fatal injuries, damage to property, and legal consequences. "These arrests are a clear illustration of our unwavering commitment to making the roads of Johannesburg safe for everyone," said Chief Patrick Jaca, JMPD Chief of Police. "We appeal to all drivers to be responsible and never drive after consuming alcohol. Such recklessness is putting drivers' and innocent pedestrians' lives at risk." "The JMP...

JOHANNESBURG - Elon Musk, owner of X (formerly known as Twitter), Space X, Starlink and Tesla has clashed with the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Julius Malema this past weekend. Musk tweeted that Malema must be declared an International Criminal for his "hatred" against white South Africans. In a statement, the EFF said that it is not fazed by the declaration made by Musk. The party said that Musk thinks of himself as “a supreme ruler of not only the Oval Office, but of all nations of the world.” "The EFF will not be cowed into submission, retreat nor capitulation from its principled and unwavering commitment to confront imperialism and its surrogates like Elon Musk anywhere and everywhere it rises its ugly head," the party stated. Meanwhile, EFF MP Sinawo Tambo has called on all Members of Parliament to reject, on principle, the application for Musk’s Starlink to operate in the country. This drama stems from an Executive Order signed by ...

VERULAM - A newborn baby was rescued in time owing to swift reaction of a Biker from Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) who was flagged down in the Verulam Central Business District (CBD), north of Durban. Reaction Officer Chris Pillay was stopped on Wick Street at 18:52 (Sunday, 9 February) by a pedestrian who believed that an animal was stuck in a storm water drain. When the Reaction Officer searched the area he found a black bin bag stuck near the manhole of a storm water drain. A child could be seen hanging at the entrance that led to a fall several meters below. The Officer manage to removed the plastic bin bag, rescued the child and radioed for assistance.  RUSA Paramedics arrived on scene and removed wet and soiled clothing from the baby. A dry uniform jacket was placed around the infant girl while she was expedited to Osindisweni Government Hospital (OGH).   A cotton swab was found on the child's arm. Paramedics believe that the she had been recently di...

CAPE TOWN - The City of Cape Town's  Water and Sanitation Directorate will be doing planned work in parts of the city, which will result in water supply disruption.  This critical maintenance work will be done on the City's water-supply infrastructure to benefit customers. Residents in the affected areas are encouraged to take note of the work that will take place and prepare accordingly. Maintenance work, including pipe and valve installations, repairs and replacements  Residents are advised to store enough water in advance, as a precautionary measure. Water should be stored in clean, sealed containers. Planned maintenance work will result in water supply disruption to these areas:  Part of Sea Point The water supply to the area along Main Road in Sea Point between Bellevue Road and Firmount Road as well as the immediate surroundings will be shut off from 09:00 until 18:00 on Tuesday, 11 February 2025. This will allow the maintenance team to make a conne...

JOHANNESBURG  - The bad blood marred by disses and threats were finally put aside when two Hip Hop giants Big Zulu and Emtee shared studio time to feature on Zulu's latest project. Emtee, real name Mthembeni Ndevu, recently descended on Nkabi Records studios to lay his verse. "The men have decided to put their differences on the side and put the culture of hip hop and music first. Something Special is coming soon !!! Big Zulu X Emtee," the labelled teased. For honouring the invitation, Zulu, real name Siyabonga Nene, showed gratitude towards the multi-awarding rapper. "I would like to take this opportunity to thank my brother Emtee the Hustla for respecting the invitation and making it to Nkabi Records' playground. We are truly grateful and I can simply say my album is ready," said Big Zulu in a Facebook post. The date for this much-anticipated album is yet to be announced.

EMMARENTIA -  Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) has announced that Westpark Cemetery, a key burial site since 1956, will reach full capacity by May 2025. With only four months left, the cemetery is now limiting burials to 15 interments a week. JCPZ acknowledges the emotional and cultural significance of burials and is committed to supporting families during this challenging time. As urban populations grow and burial space diminishes, the city faces increasing pressure to manage its cemetery resources sustainably. To address this, JCPZ is exploring additional City-owned land for new cemeteries to meet demand over the next 40-50 years. It is also advocating for policy changes to improve burial space efficiency and resource management. Residents are encouraged to review the draft cemetery, parks, and nature reserve bylaws available at:​ Cemeteries and Crematoria. ALTERNATIVE BURIAL OPTIONS  JCPZ urges residents to consider sustainable alternatives to ease pressur...

AUSTRALIA - For the second time, South African MMA fighter Dricus Du Plessis has proven why he his the best in the world. Du Plessis defeated American fighter Sean Strickland at #UFC312 by unanimous decision to become, once again, the middleweight champion of the world. Both fighters show heart in the cage but Du Plessis was much more offensive, despite reducing takedown attempts against his opponent. The fight went all rounds and the judges scored it by decision, favouring the South African. In other fights, Zhang Weili defeated Tatiana Suarez by unanimous decision to remain the strawweight champion of the world! Jimmy Crute vs Rodolfo Bellato was ruled as a majority draw. Meanwhile, Tallison Teixeira got the TKO just 35 seconds into his UFC debut.

JOHANNESBURG - AfriForum stresses that the executive order issued by President Donald Trump, US President, yesterday on the position of Africans in South Africa is a direct consequence of President Cyril Ramaphosa and his government’s irresponsible actions and policy directions. AfriForum's CEO, Kallie Kriel said they express great appreciation for Trump and the USA’s recognition of the injustice subjected to Africans in South Africa. "AfriForum and our sister institutions in the Solidarity Movement remain committed to the future of Africans at the southern tip of Africa and insists that urgent solutions must be found for the injustices committed by the South African government against Africans and other cultural communities in the country. "Africans will only be able to survive on local soil as a cultural community. Emigration only provides an opportunity for Africans willing to take the risk of sacrificing their descendants' cultural identity as Africans...