Last year, the Mail & Guardian first had the Chery Tiggo 7 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) on a long-term test and then the new flagship Tiggo 9. Both models impressed.  The Tiggo 7 PHEV is a significant step up from the petrol versions in terms of feel, comfort and running costs. The Tiggo 9, on the other hand, provides extreme luxury and excellence. It also has three electric motors that work in conjunction with the engine to give it an insane amount of power.  Last month, we stepped into the Tiggo 8 PHEV. Before the Tiggo 9 came along, the Tiggo 8 was Chery’s flagship and premium offering in South Africa.  When the initial models were released, the Tiggo 8 Pro sat at the top of the tree and was a significant upgrade from the Tiggo 7 Pro.  But since the release of the Tiggo 9, the Tiggo 8 has fallen into a strange space. It feels premium with the big screens and comfortable seats but it’s no longer the top of the range.  Let’s compare the PHEVs for a second. The Tiggo 7 PHEV has a 1.5 litre engine combined with an electric motor that delivers 255kW of power and 525Nm torque. The Tiggo 8 PHEV is equipped with the same setup that has the same outputs. However, the Tiggo 9 gets the biggest upgrade with three electric motors.  The Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 PHEVs also get the same amount of range with a combined total of up to 1 200km on a full tank and single charge, while the Tiggo 9 is scaled up to 1 400km. In terms of the drive, the Tiggo 7 feels much the same as the Tiggo 8 in terms of ride quality, smoothness and efficiency, although the Tiggo 8 feels slightly bulkier because it is a bigger car after all.  That brings me to the look and feel of the car. This is where the Tiggo 8 PHEV is slightly beefier than the Tiggo 7. The Tiggo 7 has a dual screen while the Tiggo 8 gets the same setup as the Tiggo 9, with a separate digital cluster and a huge 15.6 infotainment screen.  The Tiggo 8’s seats are also more luxurious and comfortable compared with the Tiggo 7 and because the Tiggo 8 is a seven-seater like the Tiggo 9, it has more space than the Tiggo 7. But because the drive feels similar on both models, it’s hard to argue why you should go for the Tiggo 8 over the Tiggo 7 — unless it’s extra room you’re after.  At R729 900, It’s priced extremely well. The Tiggo 7 is priced from R620 000. It is worth the money considering the power, comfort and fuel consumption, which never went above 6 litres/100km when I drove it.  But what was once the flagship of the Chery family sort of feels like a lost child now. It remains a strong product from the brand but needs to reclaim its identity and bring more to the table than the Tiggo 7 and slightly less than the Tiggo 9. At the moment, it feels like elements from the two models have merely been combined.

South Africa has launched its first national climate and health surveillance platform, a pioneering research and decision-support tool designed to strengthen the country’s ability to understand and respond to the growing health impacts of climate change. The platform, available through the Climate Health Surveillance South Africa website, was conceptualised and developed by Professor Caradee Wright, with support from the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) and the University of Pretoria. The launch comes as South Africa increasingly experiences the health effects of climate-related environmental conditions, from extreme heat and worsening air pollution to flooding, drought and climate-sensitive diseases. In recent years, research Wright and colleagues led has highlighted how prolonged heat exposure places outdoor workers, children, older people and low-income communities at increased risk of dehydration, heat stress, respiratory illness and other adverse health outcomes. The risks are expected to intensify as temperatures continue to rise. Against this backdrop, the platform was developed to help researchers, policymakers, public health practitioners and other stakeholders better visualise and interpret climate, environmental and health data in a single system. “The most important reason for producing this platform is to visualise our data,” Wright, the chief specialist scientist at the SAMRC, said. “It’s to show South Africa, Africa and the world that we have data, we have good data and we can look at our data. I’m really trying to encourage the sharing of data for visualisation so we can look at it and tell stories, find stories and show the use of investing money in collecting data.” She said the platform was also intended to demonstrate the value of the country’s health information systems and encourage broader data sharing.  “For example, it would be wonderful if district health information system data could be electronic at the levels that we need it and available on a daily timescale, which we don’t yet have.” According to information on the platform, users can explore a range of climate, environmental and health indicators through maps, graphs and other visualisation tools.  The platform brings together health and environmental datasets to support surveillance, research and evidence-based decision-making around climate-related health risks. One of the first patterns emerging from the platform shows a clear link between extreme weather and health outcomes, which is what scientists would expect. “There’s a really interesting one if you look at flood events and diarrhoea. After a dry period with fewer flood events and then an increase in flood events — this is for the whole country — we see an increase in diarrhoea, which is what we would expect because obviously with more water flowing, contamination of water can then lead to an increase in poor hygiene and the spread of diarrhoeal disease.” The platform has also highlighted important gaps in South Africa’s understanding of heat-related health impacts.  “I haven’t explored everything — and there’s so much to look at — but the other one that I have looked at is heat. It’s interesting that there’s a good linkage between heatwaves and high temperatures. We haven’t yet got a very good health indicator for that.” South Africa, Wright said, lacked appropriate health indicators to fully understand how extreme heat affected people’s health. “We would ideally want something like heat stress but we don’t really get data around that, not in the district health information system, so we’d have to look at hospital records but those aren’t digitised.” The platform allows analysis at provincial level. Early findings suggest parts of the Northern Cape are particularly vulnerable to heat and heatwaves, while the Western Cape and Eastern Cape also face significant flooding risks, as do Limpopo and Mpumalanga. North West is vulnerable to heatwaves. Wright cautioned that the platform had not yet incorporated socio-economic demographic information, making it difficult to identify which communities might be most socially vulnerable to climate-related health risks. “We haven’t yet pulled in the socio-economic demographic data, so we will draw in the census data to get a sense of social vulnerability. We might do this using the Social Vulnerability Index, so it’s difficult to say right now which provinces are most vulnerable from a socio-economic vulnerability perspective. But we can see from the extreme weather data that certain provinces are more susceptible to extreme weather events and different kinds of extreme weather events.” The current version of the platform combines multiple datasets, including historical temperature and rainfall information from the University of East Anglia, South African Weather Service extreme weather event records from 1991 to 2024, live weather observations from an online sensor network and health indicator data spanning 2000 to 2024. She hopes the platform will help government departments better use information that is being collected and shift from reacting to climate-related disasters to preparing for them. “The first thing I want is for government departments to look at the data and understand that especially the national department of health and all our health facilities around the country, the health indicator data — those are their data, they are collecting that data on a weekly or monthly basis and I want them to see that it’s going somewhere; it’s being used.” The aim is to update the platform regularly so emerging trends can be monitored in near real time.  “We can look at this data in near real time. At the moment, that’s hoping it will be every month that we’ll update the data so we can see what’s going on and what the patterns are like. “When you can see what’s going on, we’ll have a better understanding of why you need to, at this stage, react because we are probably not so good at preparing … When there’s a flood event, we rush in and try to do disaster risk management. “We don’t really want to go forward doing that. We want to prepare, be ready and prevent ill-health and harm occurring during extreme weather events.” Ultimately, Wright hopes the platform will help authorities anticipate health impacts before floods, heatwaves and other extreme weather events occur, for example the increase in dehydration and diarrhoea that typically occurs after a flood. “If you can see that this is happening, then let’s think of the best way we can work out through the science with the modelling … what we can put in place to do, so we can protect health before it comes. That then builds into what would become phase 1, 2 and 3 of the platform, which is the information to inform awareness and preparedness.” One of Wright’s ambitions is to integrate data from low-cost sensors that measure temperature, humidity and air quality in clinics, schools and older persons’ homes — settings identified as particularly vulnerable to climate-related health impacts. “The idea will be to draw in data from low-cost sensors measuring temperature, relative humidity and air quality. We have a lot of these in place in clinics and schools around South Africa. I want to introduce the sensors into all the older adult homes and I want to then do these real-world intervention trials in those three settings.” The trials would test whether climate-health warnings could trigger practical measures to reduce harm during extreme weather. “Those settings are really vulnerable settings identified as well by the national climate change and health adaptation plan. We will then be rolling out … a chest that will have, for example …  paper cups, Rehidrat, potentially bottled water if there isn’t water available, solar-powered fans, cooling towels and then laminated information sheets.” Wright envisages facilities receiving advance notice of heatwaves, for example, and activating designated climate-health champions to help implement protective measures. “There will be a person who becomes sort of a champion in that space, so when they get the information that the platform sends — that there is going to be, say a heatwave — we’re going to send it the day before and morning of. That person will then be activated.” The idea would be to encourage simple behavioural changes that could reduce heat-related health risks.  “Championing the idea of at least making people aware … to really inform them that it’s very hot in here, we can see from the data that temperature is 38°C, please unswaddle your babies, here’s water, here’s a cooling towel … We can start to see whether we can get uptake of these behaviours. “It’s going to be difficult to assess impact — that’s going to come down the line — but let’s at least get going with the interventions and testing behavioural impacts.” Wright said the platform responded to the growing need for locally relevant climate-health intelligence capable of informing practical public health responses.  “Climate change is no longer a future threat, it is affecting health outcomes and placing pressure on vulnerable communities and health systems.  “This platform creates an important foundation for understanding where risks are emerging, how environmental conditions intersect with health and how evidence can better support decision-making and preparedness.” Wright described the launch as only the beginning.  “This is really just phase zero, so I’m looking forward to growing this and leaving this as a legacy, I hope.”

Siphiwe Tshabalala and Kagiso Dikgacoi reflected on the iconic 2010 World Cup opening goal, calling it a special, generational moment for Africa.

The Gaza Democratic Front calls for urgent justice following the tragic stabbing of 19-year-old Nhlamulo Sambo during xenophobic unrest in KwaNonqaba, Mossel Bay, as communities grapple with the aftermath of violence.

Lions players Chris Smith and Quan Horn and Stormers eighthman Evan Roos received three of five awards announced by the United Rugby Championship (URC) on Tuesday, with the competition winding down towards its conclusion. Smith picked up the Golden Boot award for best kicker of the competition, Horn the Ironman award for playing the most minutes, and Evan Roos the Top Try Scorer award, all during the regular season which came to an end with the conclusion of the pool stage a few weeks ago. Golden Boot – Chris Smith It’s a case of practice makes perfect for flyhalf Smith, who picked up his second Golden Boot award, after first claiming the accolade with the Bulls in the 2023-24 season. Smith secured the prize by kicking more points than anyone else in the regular league season, racking up 149 in all, made up of 17 penalties and 49 conversions. That saw him finish well clear of his nearest rival, Stormers star Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu who kicked 113 points. “You do really have to put the work in. It’s a daily work-on and you have to focus on the small things and the detail to be able to kick at a good percentage,” Smith said. “There’s no specific number of kicks or routine that I do every single week. I probably go more on feeling than I want to kick 100 kicks this week. I focus on rhythm and build it up towards the game. If I feel really good and have hit some good ones, then I will stop.” Smith was also quick to acknowledge the debt of gratitude he owed to his kicking coach at the Lions – former Springboks and Bulls great Morne Steyn. “You honestly couldn’t have a much better mentor. He’s probably one of the best ball strikers the game has ever seen. He ranks right up there. To be able to learn from him has been priceless. That’s been quite special.” Ironman – Quan Horn Another player to pick up an award for the second time was dependable Lions fullback Horn, who landed the Ironman gong again after picking it up in the 2022-23 season. Horn eclipsed his record from that first win, when he played 1,428 minutes while starting every one of the Lions’ pool games that season, while this campaign saw him finish with a perfect 1,440 minutes of game time after playing the full 80 of every single match until the play-offs. It’s been a remarkable effort from the 24-year-old Springbok who said: “As a player, being part of the match-day 23 ignites confidence knowing you are backed week in and week out.” A word too for Stormers wing Leolin Zas who was just 10 minutes behind Horn, having also started every regular season game in the league. Top Try Scorer – Evan Roos Roos has been dubbed an “old school” character who just enjoys playing rugby – and what he’s particularly enjoyed doing this season is scoring tries. The Stormers No 8 finished the regular URC campaign as the leading try scorer in the competition, having touched down 12 times. He ended up one clear of Ulster wing Zac Ward and two above Ward’s team-mate Werner Kok and Connacht eighthman Sean Jansen. The 26-year-old Springbok set the tone for what was to come by crossing twice in the opening game of the URC season against Leinster while there was to be another double versus Edinburgh in March. His table-topping tally also included tries against Ospreys, Scarlets, Lions, Bulls, Dragons, Connacht, Glasgow Warriors and Ulster. Giving his thoughts on Roos’ prolific finishing, Stormers director of rugby John Dobson said: “He’s very fast and he also runs good support lines. He’s just a kid who enjoys rugby. He just wants the ball in his hands, he wants to play, he wants to tackle people. “He’s like an old school rugby player, he’s ‘Yes coach, no coach, sorry coach, what do you want coach?’ I think if rugby was an amateur sport, he’d still be playing exactly the same. He’s like a kid, he’s got humour, he giggles, he contributes, he’s fantastic. I love him.” As for the man himself, eight-cap Springbok Roos confirmed how much he relished his rugby role: “I am just enjoying it. It’s fun. The tries are just a nice bonus for me.” Other awards Two more accolades were announced for the URC’s Tackle Machine and Playmaker, which went to Dragons lock Ben Carter and Ospreys flyhalf Jack Walsh respectively. The Tackle Machine prize goes to the player with the highest percentage accuracy among those who made 150-plus tackles during the regular season, which Carter managed with a success of 97.6%. The Playmaker prize recognises creativity, with three key metrics used to decide the winner – try assists, defenders beaten and successfully completed offloads. Other awards are set to be announced over the rest of the week to conclude the list for the 2025/26 season, with the URC’s Elite XV, Next-Gen Player of the Season, Innovation Award, Try of the Season, South African URC Player of the Season, Coach of the Season, and Players’ Player of the Season winners all set to be announced before this weekend’s semifinals.

There was something cinematic about the setting. The open air, the sound of music drifting through the evening, and a runway framed by the rolling landscape of Steyn City Equestrian Centre, all combined to create a memorable moment for South African fashion. It was here that Fabiani unveiled its Autumn/Winter 2026 collection, Western Horizons, during its exclusive Members Only event, offering a glimpse into the menswear trends set to shape wardrobes this winter. Picture: iStock What’s the trend? The collection takes inspiration from the modern outrider, a man who moves effortlessly between city life and adventure. The result is a wardrobe that balances rugged masculinity with refined tailoring, proving that modern style is no longer about choosing between comfort and sophistication. Picture: iStock One of the strongest trends emerging from the collection is elevated denim. Forget distressed finishes and oversized fits. This season is all about dark-wash denim, clean silhouettes, and structured layers. Tailored jeans are paired with fitted jackets and smart knitwear, creating looks that feel polished yet relaxed. Style tip: Invest in a pair of dark denim jeans and wear them with a crisp shirt and tailored jacket. It is an easy way to look sophisticated without appearing overdressed. Texture is another major story this season. Suede jackets, soft-touch outerwear and premium leather pieces bring depth and luxury to everyday dressing. These fabrics not only look expensive but also add character to simple outfits. Style tip: If you’re introducing suede into your wardrobe for the first time, start with a jacket in a neutral shade such as tan, chocolate brown or stone. It works effortlessly with denim and tailored trousers alike. Outerwear continues to dominate menswear, and quilted bombers and sleek leather jackets showcased why they are considered wardrobe essentials. Picture: iStock Designed with sharp lines and versatile styling, these pieces move seamlessly from office hours to evening occasions. Knitwear also takes centre stage. Earthy tones inspired by natural landscapes create a sense of understated luxury while offering endless layering possibilities. Style tip: Layer a fine-knit jersey over a collared shirt for an instantly refined winter look. Stick to neutral colours for maximum versatility. The collection’s footwear made an equally strong impression. Monogrammed and embossed high-top sneakers added a contemporary edge while maintaining a premium feel. Leading the campaign is actor and style authority Thapelo Mokoena, whose effortless approach to fashion perfectly reflects the collection’s message of confidence, restraint and purpose. Today’s stylish man is investing in quality over quantity, choosing timeless pieces that work across multiple occasions rather than chasing short-lived trends. This winter, modern style means embracing tailored denim, luxurious textures, statement outerwear, and thoughtful craftsmanship, as Western Horizons. The new standard is clear: effortless elegance is the mark of the modern gentleman.

South Africa’s Connor Doig celebrated a career milestone after advancing to the third round of a boys’ singles Grand Slam for the first time, with an impressive performance against doubles partner, Bulgaria’s ninth-seed Dimitar Kisimov 6-4, 7-5 on Tuesday. Doig, 18, admitted that he was overwhelmed with emotion after securing his second consecutive victory at the tournament, describing the achievement as “amazing” and a reward for the hard work that went into his preparation. Continued his momentum Having claimed his first Grand Slam match win just two days earlier, Doig continued his momentum with a composed display that showcased both tactical discipline and mental resilience. “I knew I had to play a really good match to beat Dimi,” he said. “He’s such a solid opponent and always brings a high level. I’m proud that I was able to execute our game plan and hold my nerve throughout.” Despite the unusual challenge of facing his doubles partner across the net, Doig found comfort in the familiarity. The pair know each others’ games intimately and had even spent 90 minutes practicing together the day before the match. Rather than creating additional pressure, that familiarity helped settle his nerves. “It almost brought me a sense of calm knowing I was playing against someone I know well,” Doig explained. “We both knew what to expect, and you could feel that we were trying to work each other out during our practice yesterday.” Extensive work Preparation proved crucial, with Connor Doig crediting the extensive work he and his coach undertook ahead of the contest. The strategy paid off as he produced one of his strongest performances to date. The victory, however, creates an unusual situation. Just hours after battling each other in singles competition, Doig and Kisimov are going to reunite as doubles partners. Doig acknowledged his opponent’s disappointment, but expressed confidence that Kisimov would quickly put the singles result behind him. “I’ll see how he’s feeling,” Doig revealed. “Obviously he’ll be disappointed, but he’s a great character and I’m sure he’ll be ready to go. I think we’ve got a good chance of making a run in the doubles if we play well.” Doig and Kisimov will face French wildcard pairing of Damien Clerc and Matisse Martin in their first round boys’ double match. Tough challenge awaits Looking ahead, Doig will face fifth-seeded Ziga Sesko from Slovenia in the third round. With Sesko having claimed the Australian Open junior singles title earlier this year, Doig knows another tough challenge awaits. For now, though, the focus remains on enjoying a breakthrough week that has already delivered the biggest Grand Slam results of his young career. Dave Marshall is reporting exclusively from the 2026 French Open at Roland-Garros for The South African.

In recognition of his significant service to the youth, British actor Idris Elba was among those knighted by King Charles at Windsor Castle today. The 53-year-old The Wire actor was awarded a knighthood in the New Year Honours. Sir Idris Elba founded the Elba Hope Foundation in 2022, which, according to its website, invests in actionable solutions focused on empowerment through education, economic opportunity, and entrepreneurship. Congratulations to everyone who received honours at today’s Investiture ceremonies, hosted by The King at Windsor Castle. 🎖️👏Amongst recipients were…🎬 Sir @IdrisElba for services to young people. ⛸️ @TorvillandDean for services to ice skating and voluntary service.🎭… pic.twitter.com/LvKeGx0aiT— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) June 2, 2026 The actor’s knighthood was first announced at the end of last year, making this the official ceremony of knighting Elba and 67 other honourees. At the time of the announcement, Elba said: “I receive this honour on behalf of the many young people whose talent, ambition, and resilience have driven the work of The Elba Hope Foundation. “I hope we can do more to draw attention to the importance of sustained, practical support for young people and to the responsibility we all share to help them find an alternative to violence.”

Telkom CEO Serame Taukobong sees at least four to five more years of data-driven growth, and not only on mobile.

A multi-year OSS/BSS overhaul at Telkom is aimed at enabling converged selling and lifting average revenue per user.