Markus Jooste, a prominent South African businessman and former director of Steinhoff, committed suicide on March 21, 2024, amid allegations of orchestrating massive fraud that led to the company's downfall in 2017. The scandal resulted in significant financial losses and legal actions against Jooste, including asset freezes and a substantial fine. His death marks the end of a major corporate scandal in South Africa, with ongoing legal and financial repercussions.

A musical protest in Johannesburg on South African Human Rights Day saw over a thousand drummers rallying to raise awareness about the civilian casualties in Gaza and call for a ceasefire. The event, characterized by its unique approach, aimed to 'wake up the world' to the ongoing conflict, drawing parallels between Israel's actions and apartheid. The demonstration attracted a diverse group of participants, emphasizing the strong support for the Palestinian cause among South Africans.

South Africa's largest bank has frozen former President Jacob Zuma's accounts due to non-repayment of a loan of approximately 480,000 euros. Zuma, who was forced to resign in 2018 amid corruption allegations, had previously been embroiled in scandal for using taxpayer money for upgrades to his country home, which he claimed were for security purposes. He was ordered to repay the state, but his loan remains unpaid. The MK party, which Zuma is actively supporting for the May 29 general elections, sees the account freeze as a political move by the ANC to weaken him. Zuma's daughter, Duduzile, has called for an end to the banking cartel on social media. The Zuma family is known for its populist rhetoric against the Constitution, media, and now banks, aiming to distract from the former president's misconduct.

The Speaker of South Africa's National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, is under investigation for corruption, with her home recently searched by police. This development poses a challenge for the ruling ANC party, which is already facing scrutiny for maintaining candidates implicated in corruption ahead of the general elections. Mapisa-Nqakula is accused of accepting bribes during her tenure as Minister of Defense, a claim that has resurfaced and intensified. The ANC's struggle with corruption persists despite President Cyril Ramaphosa's promises of reform, as evidenced by the inclusion of controversial figures like Dipuo Peters in the election candidate list.

The Burundian basketball club Dynamo Burundi Basket Club forfeited their second match in the Basketball Africa League (BAL) in Pretoria against FUS de Rabat due to their refusal to wear the official sponsor's logo, 'Visit Rwanda'. The players had covered the logo with black tape, reflecting ongoing tensions between Burundi and Rwanda. Burundi had previously closed its borders with Rwanda in January 2024, accusing Kigali of harboring the headquarters of the Burundian rebel group Red-Tabara and expelling Rwandan nationals from its territory. The president of the Burundian basketball federation, Jean-Paul Manirakiza, confirmed the request to avoid the logo, which was sent an hour before the game. Despite the political interference, the team's coach, Julien Chaignot, had urged his players to focus on the game.

Former South African President Jacob Zuma is leading the candidate list for the newly formed uMkhonto WeSizwe party in the upcoming general elections on May 29. Despite his previous presidency under the ANC, Zuma aims to challenge his former party. His candidacy faces legal hurdles due to a prior conviction, and his potential election as a deputy would require him to forfeit his presidential benefits. Zuma's primary goal appears to be weakening the ANC by attracting votes to his new party.

The United States announced the end of a restrictive measures regime in place since 2003, leading some to believe Zimbabwe was free from American sanctions. However, a new punitive regime targeting the ruling elite, including the president, was simultaneously announced. This development highlights ongoing international dynamics and the influence of major powers like the US, China, and Russia in Africa.

The FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, also known as 'la Calebasse' due to its African percussion instrument-shaped architecture, is a legendary venue that has hosted the most significant events in South African political and sports history. As part of the 'Mythical Stadiums of the Continent' series, it is highlighted for its unique blend of politics, sports, music, and entertainment.

Jacob Zuma, known for his strategic prowess learned during his imprisonment on Robben Island, is now seemingly aiming to challenge figures larger than himself within South African politics. Having previously orchestrated the fall of President Thabo Mbeki in 2008 before his own presidency from 2009 to 2018, Zuma's current political maneuvers suggest a significant internal conflict within the African National Congress.

Former South African President Jacob Zuma has publicly denounced his own party, the African National Congress (ANC), and its current leader, Cyril Ramaphosa, accusing them of being controlled by 'white capitalism' and betraying black professionals and intellectuals. Zuma has called for support for a new party, uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), which could potentially weaken the ANC's majority in the upcoming 2024 elections. The ANC plans to take legal action to retain the MK name. Zuma's actions are seen as a mission to rescue the ANC, though they appear more as a destabilization campaign.

Misuzulu kaZwelithini's ascension to the Zulu throne is marred by legal disputes and familial opposition, despite recognition from President Cyril Ramaphosa. The High Court of Pretoria annulled his recognition due to procedural issues, leading to an appeal by the presidency. The legitimacy crisis has political implications, with parties like the EFF seeking the king's favor ahead of the 2024 elections. The ongoing legal battles over the throne and financial control of the Ingonyama Trust highlight the deep divisions within the Zulu royal family and the broader societal impact on the Zulu nation.

Following a contested presidential election in August, Zimbabwe held by-elections for nine parliamentary seats on December 9. The ruling Zanu-PF party aims to secure a two-thirds majority in Parliament to amend the Constitution, potentially removing presidential term limits. The by-elections were triggered by the disqualification of 14 opposition MPs, a move orchestrated by Sengezo Tshabangu, whose legitimacy is disputed by opposition leader Nelson Chamisa. The judiciary validated the disqualifications, allowing the elections to proceed. Observers suggest that President Emmerson Mnangagwa may seek to extend his tenure, following the precedent set by former President Robert Mugabe.

A new hostage situation has emerged at the Gold One mine near Johannesburg, South Africa, where 447 employees have been held underground by angry miners since December 7. This follows a similar incident in October 2023. The reasons for the current blockade are unclear, but it is believed to be in support of 50 employees who were fired after the October incident. The police are on-site attempting to resolve the situation. The previous conflict was nearly resolved, but disciplinary actions against 52 miners have reignited tensions. The chief investigator of the previous incident was recently murdered, adding to the tension. Concurrently, 250 miners are striking at a platinum mine in Rustenburg, demanding higher wages, maternity leave payments, and a halt to mass layoffs.

The legacy of Nelson Mandela, who passed away a decade ago, is being commemorated in South Africa with the unveiling of two new statues by President Cyril Ramaphosa in Mandela's birthplace, Mthatha, Eastern Cape. Mandela's image has become widely sanitized, risking the loss of his political depth and complexity. Mandela, a former member of the Communist Party, is celebrated globally with statues in various countries.

South Africa commemorated Nelson Mandela on the tenth anniversary of his death, reflecting on his legacy as an anti-apartheid activist and a key figure in the country's peaceful democratic transition. While Mandela remains an iconic figure, his party, the ANC, faces growing criticism from the population. The ANC highlighted improvements in living conditions over the past decade, but the public remains concerned about rising unemployment, crime, and power outages. The article also notes the upcoming elections, which could see the ANC lose its majority for the first time, underscoring the diminishing impact of Mandela's legacy on the party's current standing.

A decade after Nelson Mandela's death, South Africans reflect on his legacy with a mix of nostalgia and criticism. Mandela is remembered for his selfless leadership, but his successors, including Thabo Mbeki, Jacob Zuma, and Cyril Ramaphosa, have been associated with significant failures such as the AIDS crisis, corruption, and unresolved economic issues. The youth, including Anda Dilaza, express admiration for Mandela's values but are critical of subsequent leaders who have strayed from these ideals. The black population remains disproportionately affected by unemployment and poverty, and land redistribution post-apartheid has not been achieved. The Nelson Mandela Foundation encourages a critical yet balanced view of Mandela's legacy.

Mthatha, a city in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, struggles with poor infrastructure and high crime rates despite being the birthplace of Nelson Mandela and other ANC legends. The region faces severe economic challenges, including high unemployment and low education completion rates. Local sentiment is increasingly critical of the ANC due to corruption and mismanagement, with some residents turning to the opposition Democratic Alliance.

ArcelorMittal is set to close two plants in South Africa in January 2024, threatening 3,500 jobs. The closures are attributed to high wages, a 20% decline in local steel demand over seven years, and additional challenges from Transnet's poor freight management and Eskom's frequent power outages. ArcelorMittal's CEO, Kobus Verster, criticized the South African government's mismanagement of public enterprises, highlighting the broader impact on the company's operations and workforce.

Oscar Pistorius is set to be released on parole on January 5, 2024, after serving half of his sentence for the murder of Reeva Steenkamp. The decision follows the Constitutional Court's overruling of a previous denial of parole. The case, which has been one of South Africa's most high-profile judicial sagas, involved Pistorius, a celebrated Paralympian, who claimed he mistook Steenkamp for an intruder. Testimonies and evidence presented during the trial highlighted a complex narrative of the events leading to Steenkamp's death.

Representatives of the five main opposition candidates in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are meeting in Pretoria, South Africa, with mediators from the In Transformation Initiative (ITI) to attempt to present a united candidacy against the incumbent President Félix Tshisekedi in the upcoming presidential election scheduled for December 20. The non-governmental organization, which specializes in conflict resolution, had previously been involved in similar efforts prior to the 2018 election. The delegates are working on criteria for a joint candidacy and project, with security in the eastern part of the country being a point of consensus. The outcome of these negotiations is seen as crucial for the stability of the DRC and is of interest to the South African government, which views itself as a diplomatic destination for resolving conflicts.

Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraine's foreign minister, visited Pretoria to strengthen diplomatic ties with South Africa, marking the first such visit since 1998. The visit highlighted the historical and current geopolitical dynamics between Ukraine, South Africa, and Russia. Kuleba emphasized Ukraine's past support for the anti-apartheid struggle and proposed new collaborations in development aid, education, and agriculture. Despite efforts to bridge gaps, the meeting underscored ongoing tensions, particularly regarding South Africa's stance on the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the conflict in the Middle East. The visit is part of Ukraine's broader strategy to re-engage with African nations and counter Russian influence on the continent.

U.S. Ambassador to South Africa Reuben Brigety, known for his bow tie and outspokenness, denounced a South African arms shipment to Russia without providing evidence, causing U.S. Congress members to suggest relocating the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) forum and potentially excluding South Africa from its trade benefits. Despite these tensions, South Africa hosted the AGOA forum, and the White House expressed appreciation for South Africa's serious investigation into the allegations, which found no evidence of arms shipments. The trade relations between the two countries continue, with Ambassador Brigety and U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai present at the forum's closing ceremony.

The AGOA forum, held from November 2 to 4 in South Africa, took place amid uncertainty about the future of the African Growth and Opportunity Act, which provides tariff exemptions for 6,800 products exported from 35 eligible sub-Saharan African countries to the United States. Originally adopted in 2000 and extended multiple times, the act is set to expire in September 2025. African countries are eager to know whether it will be maintained, when it will be renewed, and in what form.

The Springboks, South Africa's national rugby team, are celebrated by thousands of fans during their triumphant tour across Johannesburg following their World Cup victory. The team's diverse composition and unity are highlighted as sources of national pride. Siya Kolisi, the first black captain of the Springboks, is particularly praised for his leadership. President Cyril Ramaphosa joins in the celebrations, emphasizing the team's role in uniting the country. The tour continues to other major cities, with fans eagerly awaiting the team's arrival.

The summit for African beneficiaries of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) began on November 2 in Johannesburg, South Africa. The US law exempts certain African countries from paying duties to export their products to the US, but requires adherence to democracy and human rights standards. President Joe Biden intends to exclude Gabon, Niger, the Central African Republic, and Uganda from these trade privileges due to recent coups, lack of political pluralism, and human rights violations. Uganda's economic strategy, which relied heavily on its exports, is particularly affected by this exclusion, especially after enacting a law that harshly criminalizes homosexuality. South Africa, the summit's host, was also scrutinized for its diplomatic ties with Russia. The AGOA is set to expire in September 2025, and while its success is mixed, the Biden administration supports its extension and aims to improve its impact.

The United States has excluded Gabon, Central African Republic, Uganda, and Niger from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) due to concerns over democracy and human rights. Joy Basu, Deputy Secretary of State for Economic and Regional Affairs in Africa, emphasized that these exclusions are significant and aim to uphold the values of Agoa. The Biden administration supports extending Agoa beyond its 2025 expiration, but the decision lies with the US Congress. The article highlights the geopolitical implications and challenges of Agoa, including the potential for other foreign partners to fill the void left by the US.

The South African rugby team, the Springboks, have become the most titled team in the Rugby World Cup with their latest victory, marking their fourth win. Celebrations erupted in the FAN zone of Johannesburg, with supporters expressing national pride and unity. Despite close victories against France, England, and New Zealand, the spirit of resilience was highlighted as emblematic of the South African spirit. The World Cup victory served as a moment for the diverse South African society to come together, transcending racial and ethnic divisions.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa leverages the Springboks' Rugby World Cup victory to bolster national unity, echoing the team's slogan 'We are stronger together' in an attempt to gain citizens' trust. He plans to address the nation following the team's fourth world title win. While Ramaphosa sees the Springboks' success as a metaphor for overcoming adversity, South Africans draw a different lesson, emphasizing the importance of having the right people in the right positions, in contrast to the government's alleged cronyism and mismanagement.

South Africa erupted in euphoria after the Springboks' narrow 12-11 victory over New Zealand in the Rugby World Cup final. Fans in Johannesburg celebrated passionately, highlighting the team's unmatched success with their fourth trophy. The victory brought a sense of unity and pride to a nation grappling with various challenges, including infrastructure issues, corruption, and a power crisis. The Springboks' captain, Siya Kolisi, was particularly adored, symbolizing hope and resilience for many South Africans.

In South Africa, 562 miners trapped underground due to a union strike have emerged safely after nearly 72 hours. The conflict involves the AMCU union seeking official recognition from the Gold One mining company near Johannesburg. The situation, which caused significant stress and fatigue among the miners, has not resolved the ongoing union dispute. The incident recalls the tragic 2012 Marikana massacre, highlighting the intense rivalry between AMCU and the NUM union.

South Africa, known for hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup, held a 'Granny Football' World Cup in March 2023. The event, inspired by the Vakhegula Vakhegula ('the grannies' in Tsonga) club founded by 'Mama Beka' Rebecca Beka Ntsanwisi, aims to change societal perceptions of old age. The club began in the mid-2000s when Mama Beka started walking for health reasons and was joined by other women. It has grown to 200 teams across South Africa. The 'Granny Football' World Cup, despite financial challenges, showcased the empowerment and community support among elderly women, with teams like France's 'Footeuses à tout âge' participating. The event has garnered international attention, with Jean Duffy writing a book, 'Soccer Grannies,' and the initiative is seen as a way to honor and respect elderly women, transforming them from caregivers to village heroines.

Over 500 South African miners have been trapped underground for over 36 hours due to a standoff between rival unions NUM and AMCU. The conflict centers around union recognition at a Gold One-operated gold mine in Springs, east of Johannesburg. AMCU denies holding the miners against their will, stating they are participating in a protest sit-in. AMCU is demanding official recognition as the majority of miners have signed up with them, while NUM is accused of negotiating independently and has called for police intervention. Gold One has expressed concern, referring to the situation as a hostage-taking.

Diplomatic relations between Israel and South Africa are strained, primarily due to the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. Despite calls from the EFF and some ANC members to close the Israeli embassy in Pretoria, it remains open. The South African government has labeled Israel as an apartheid regime and accused it of genocide and war crimes in Gaza. The ANC's historical shift towards supporting Palestine is highlighted, along with the complex diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations. Key figures like Nomvula Mokonyane and Adi Cohen Hazanov provide insights into the challenges and potential for dialogue. The article also touches on South Africa's role in international mediation and its non-aligned stance.

In South Africa, the national rugby team, the Springboks, is seen as a beacon of hope amidst the country's challenges, including crime, corruption, and economic issues. The team's success in the Rugby World Cup 2023 has united the nation, with captain Siya Kolisi leading the charge. Despite the enthusiasm, there is frustration over the shortage of official team jerseys, with Nike facing criticism for not meeting demand. The Springboks' diverse representation reflects a transformed South Africa, moving away from its past of racial division.

In South Africa, the Springboks rugby team represents a beacon of hope amidst a backdrop of crime, corruption, unemployment, poverty, inflation, electricity crisis, infrastructure issues, and health concerns. The national team's jerseys for the 2023 World Cup are sold out, with Nike facing criticism for not producing enough and limiting retailers. South Africans are encouraged to wear the team's colors every Friday, fostering a sense of unity. Despite the challenges, the Springboks' slogan 'Stronger together' resonates with the patriotic spirit of the nation.

Hamas' revelation of a phone call with South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor has embarrassed the South African government, which denies supporting Hamas' 'Al-Aqsa Flood' operation that resulted in 1,400 deaths in Israel. The South African Jewish Board of Deputy criticizes Pandor for engaging with Hamas, while the ruling ANC party defends her, stating the call was about humanitarian aid to Gaza. The government and ANC distance themselves from Hamas, emphasizing support for the Palestinian people, not the militant group. The incident complicates South Africa's international relations, especially with the US and European countries, at a time when diplomatic ties are already strained due to accusations of South African arms shipments to Russia.

To mark the tenth anniversary of Nelson Mandela's death, two new statues were inaugurated by President Cyril Ramaphosa on July 18 in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, Mandela's birthplace. The article reflects on the symbolic significance of these statues and Mandela's enduring legacy.

South Africa's population has increased from 51 million in 2011 to 62 million in 2023, according to the latest decennial census. President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted that nearly 90% of the population lives in formal housing. The census reveals that 81% of the population is black, with a decline in the white population to 7%. Zulu is the most spoken language at home, while only 8% of households speak English. The census also shows improvements in housing, water access, and electricity, though challenges like significant water cuts persist. It does not address key issues such as unemployment, crime, and poverty.

In 1995, Fabien Galthié, not selected for the Rugby World Cup, traveled to South Africa, joining his friend Beñat Daguerre in Cape Town. Despite the recent end of apartheid, Galthié's presence was notable, and he quickly attracted attention from local rugby clubs. Initially joining Hamilton Rugby Club, he was soon recruited by Nick Mallett of False Bay Rugby Club. The narrative highlights Galthié's adventurous spirit and the cultural exchange between French and South African rugby during a transformative period in South Africa's history.

The South African government and the ruling African National Congress (ANC) express strong support for Palestinians, condemning Israel's policies and actions. The ANC likens the Palestinian struggle to South Africa's apartheid history, while the opposition party, Alliance démocratique, criticizes Hamas and supports Israel. The conflict continues to divide South African society, reflecting broader global divisions.

South Africa is experiencing unprecedented egg shortages due to an avian flu epidemic that has led to the culling of over 5 million laying hens. With no vaccine available in the country, prices have nearly doubled, and supermarkets like SPAR are considering importing eggs from neighboring countries to meet demand. Namibia has halted imports of South African poultry to protect itself. The shortage is expected to extend to poultry meat as well, with over 2 million breeding hens culled.

Alfred Msutu Kewana, director of the Busy Bee rugby club in Langa, South Africa, reflects on the club's centennial history and its role in the anti-apartheid struggle. Despite post-apartheid challenges, including exclusion from prestigious regional tournaments, Busy Bee has persevered, eventually gaining recognition through the South African Human Rights Commission. The article highlights the broader issues facing amateur rugby in South Africa, where professional opportunities are often limited to those attending elite schools.

In South Africa, the preservation of culinary heritage is being championed by chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, who has amassed the largest collection of cookbooks in the country. These books, often donated by their owners, serve as inspiration for chefs to innovate while honoring traditional recipes. The article highlights the cultural significance of cookbooks in the Afrikaner community and their role in constructing a distinct identity. It also discusses the popularity of community recipe books, which have historically been used to raise funds for charitable causes. Notable figures such as Mogau Seshoene and Errieda du Toit are recognized for their contributions to the culinary world, blending tradition with modernity and giving voice to generations of women through their work.

Michel-Jack Chasseuil, a 79-year-old French collector, has amassed one of the world's most precious wine collections, which he keeps in his basement in La Chapelle-Bâton, France. Chasseuil, who began as a stamp collector and later worked at Dassault Aviation, has dedicated his life and savings to collecting rare wines, which he never drinks. His collection, which includes bottles like 1945 Romanée-Conti, is set to be displayed in a new earthquake-proof bunker. Despite attempts by robbers to steal his collection and criticism from some for not opening the bottles, Chasseuil plans to make his cellar a tourist attraction, partnering with a local luxury hotel.

Sea Shepherd, an ocean protection NGO, is assisting the Gambian government in combating illegal fishing along the Gambian coast. The NGO operates covert night patrols to detect industrial fishing vessels illegally operating within a zone reserved for artisanal fishers. Although no arrests were made during a particular patrol, the presence of Sea Shepherd and the Gambian Coast Guard, supervised by an inspector from the Ministry of Fisheries, is deemed effective. The collaboration, funded by donations to Sea Shepherd, began with a contract signed in 2019 and is set to continue until 2021, with each month of patrol costing the NGO approximately 100,000 euros.

French cuisine, known for its rich and hearty dishes, often leads to digestive discomfort and flatulence due to ingredients like grease, dairy, and legumes. Despite the potential for gas, traditional dishes such as pot-au-feu, garbure, cassoulet, and cabbage soup remain beloved, though their popularity is waning in favor of lighter, more refined meals. Fine-dining chefs have revitalized these rustic recipes, transforming them into gourmet offerings. The article highlights the cultural significance and historical evolution of these dishes, while also providing tips to mitigate their digestive effects.

French dishes such as pot-au-feu, garbure, and cassoulet are known to cause digestive discomfort and gas due to their high fat content and the body's difficulty in absorbing dairy products. The traditional French diet poses a challenge for digestion, with meals being a minefield for the stomach. Despite this, gourmet restaurants in France are reintroducing these traditional dishes, bringing them into the 21st century culinary renaissance. MUNCHIES in France has compiled a list of the most digestion-inhibiting French recipes.