IOL
Juvenile baboon safely rescued after three days on the run in Durban
A juvenile baboon that sparked concern after roaming through several Durban suburbs over the past three days has been safely captured.
IOL
Chicken mushroom pie recipe that is easy enough for busy weeknights
Make a comforting chicken mushroom pie with puff pastry, creamy white sauce and simple ingredients, plus practical tips for using leftover chicken successfully.
The Citizen
‘They’re calling each other gorgeous’: Johnson-Feroz Khan relationship scrutinised
The relationship between former Independent Directorate Against Corruption (Idac) head Andrea Johnson and criminally accused senior Crime Intelligence officer Feroz Khan came under sharp scrutiny at the Madlanga commission on Wednesday, 29 July 2026, raising concerns about possible blurred lines between professional duty and personal interaction. Johnson wrapped up six days of testimony marked by intense questioning from commissioners on various aspects of her conduct while leading Idac. A key issue before the commission related to claims that Johnson may have interfered in a criminal matter involving Khan. The case originates from a complaint of common assault and intimidation laid by former Crime Intelligence officer Brigadier Leonora Phetlhe, who accused Khan of assaulting her in June 2018. Testimony before the commission revealed that Johnson allegedly sent Khan the contents of a criminal docket before he provided a warning statement to investigators. Following these developments, the Hawks initiated an investigation into Johnson for possible interference and obstruction of justice. While the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) declined to prosecute Khan in December 2021, a prosecutor had been assigned to consider whether charges should be instituted against Johnson. Andrea Johnson questioned over relationship with Feroz Khan Testifying at at the Brigitte Mabandla Justice College in Pretoria on Wednesday, Johnson invoked her right not to criminate herself by answering questions regarding the interference allegations, but was quizzed about her relationship with Khan. This line of inquiry was prompted by WhatsApp messages retrieved from Khan’s phone. According to evidence leader Mahlape Sello, the messages – which were not publicly displayed – suggested a close relationship, including references to Johnson’s family visiting Khan. Johnson, however, downplayed the nature of their interactions, stating that she had met Khan for lunch “once or twice” and attended a social gathering for his 50th birthday with her husband. She denied that any family visit had taken place. “There might have been an occasion where he invited us, but I have not gone to his home and he has not come to my home. We have not socialised,” Johnson told the commission. Sello challenged this version, pointing to the tone of the messages, which included messages such as “Hi, gorgeous” and “dearest” between the two. “I referenced how you address each other at times. They’re calling each other gorgeous. You tell each other how much you miss each other,” the evidence leader remarked. Commissioners question conduct Commissioner Sandile Khumalo expressed concern over an incident in which Khan approached Johnson after suspecting that the Hawks were targeting him. He highlighted that Khan was able to access Johnson’s office directly, bypassing standard entry procedures. “That is a sign of people who have a close personal relationship. You can see there that it’s not an Idac investigation. It’s really two people who are friends, and this relates to a favour to him, as it has nothing to do with Idac’s work. “I will just read, for example, where he wants to know who’s plotting against him. He suspects that it is the Hawks that are plotting against him, and the two of you decide to meet. “You arrange for him not to sign in in the normal course, but to come in via the VIP entrance and come directly to your office without going via reception,” Khumalo said. In her response, Johnson explained that senior officials are often granted alternative access routes. However, Sello countered that Khan’s visit appeared to be personal rather than official – a point Johnson later conceded. ‘Be smart’ Commissioner Sesi Baloyi highlighted further exchanges between Johnson and Khan. “I’m looking at page 3243, where he wants you to tell him who said something, and you say, ‘I will tell you when I see you – for now, be smart’. “It’s this second part that I’m reading that can be a source of concern – you say, ‘for now, be smart about who you trust at work. Please don’t say anything to anyone about you had someone is out to get you, because you could be talking to the culprit’. “So you and him are discussing matters that have something to do with what’s happening in his workplace, and you’re advising each other and you’re reporting to each other,” Baloyi said. Allegations have been made that Khan, Johnson, and several others – including Idac senior investigator Brian Padayachee – formed part of a coordinated group described as an “Indian cabal” within law enforcement structures, purportedly working together to advance their own interests while targeting certain individuals. Khan testimony Khan’s appearance before the commission remains unclear after he was shot in an alleged hit in Houghton, Johannesburg, on 28 June – three days before he was anticipated to testify. The Citizen previously revealed the extent of his injuries amid claims the shooting may have been staged. He remains out on R20 000 bail in a case involving charges of unlawful dealing and possession of illicit precious metals following his 10 May arrest. The case will resume at the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on 2 September.
The Citizen
Black Coffee’s new school project gives children something to smile about
While millions know Black Coffee for selling out shows around the world, his biggest impact is often felt much closer to home. Through the Black Coffee Foundation, Nkosinathi Maphumulo, the Grammy winner, is once again changing lives by expanding a project that is helping South African children see, smile and succeed. This is a project he has shared is important to him. As a child, he grew up needing spectacles himself. More than just eye care Picture: supplied The Black Coffee Foundation has officially expanded its Gift of Sight by Black Coffee initiative by adding dental care to a programme that has already changed the lives of thousands of schoolchildren. The latest rollout took place at Zenzeleni Primary School in Alexandra. More than 500 pupils received professional eye tests, vision screenings and dental assessments at the school over three days. The idea is simple but powerful. When children struggle with poor eyesight or untreated dental problems, it can affect everything from their confidence to their ability to concentrate in class. Teamwork is making a real difference If a child is identified as needing further treatment after these screenings, the foundation helps arrange follow-up appointments. In addition, it provides support to families to ensure children receive the care they need, whether for glasses, dental procedures or referrals to specialists. The Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital will support ongoing eye testing. Speaking about the expansion, Black Coffee Foundation CEO Lungie Maphumulo said the goal is to remove preventable health barriers so children can learn, grow and reach their full potential. She said adding dental care is the natural next step after seeing the positive impact the eye care programme has had in schools. Previously, the DJ built houses in KwaZulu-Natal for flood victims.
The South African
WEATHER: Isolated showers and thundershowers to hit these provinces
Here is what the weather has in store for KZN, Free State and North West on Thursday 30 July 2026. KWAZULU-NATAL Cloudy, cold to cool conditions will bring scattered showers and rain to the north, with isolated showers expected elsewhere, except in the south-west. Moderate to fresh southerly to south-westerly winds will blow along the coast, strengthening to strong at times in the north. DURBAN Durban is going to be cloudy with isolated showers and rain. Moderate to fresh southerly to south-westerly winds will continue throughout the day Temperatures will range from 14°C to 20°C. The UVB sunburn index is going to be low. FREE STATE Cloudy with morning fog patches over the central parts, otherwise partly cloudy and cold to cool with isolated showers and thundershowers over the eastern parts in the morning. BLOEMFONTEIN Bloemfontein is going to be cloudy with morning fog patches, otherwise partly cloudy as the day progresses. Temperatures will range from a minimum of 2°C to a maximum of 17°C. NORTH WEST North West province is going to be partly cloudy in the south at first, otherwise fine and cool. MAHIKENG Weather in Mahikeng is going to be fine. Temperatures will range from a minimum of 7°C. to a maximum of 23°C. Weather forecast data provided by the South African Weather Service.
The South African
Orlando Pirates rumours: Dansin ‘promotion’, Appollis twist, Makgopa latest
Today’s Orlando Pirates rumours involve Cemran Dansin, Oswin Appollis and Evidence Makgopa. Who’s staying and who’s going? Orlando Pirates fans heartbroken by Sesane’s exit Pirates fans aren’t exactly delighted that Thabiso Sesane has left the club. The 26-year-old has been desperately unfortunate with injury issues, notably a tendon problem which ruled him out of the entire 2025-26 season. Should he have been given another go? The consensus seems to be that he’s gotten a raw deal. Pedersen is the latest Pirates marquee man, but what of Makgopa? Orlando Pirates have signed 27-year-old Norwegian striker Sebastian Pedersen from Sogndal in his native Norway. Unfairly, some fans online have dubbed Pedersen The Temu Haaland. What does Pedersen’s arrival mean for Evidence Makgopa? One man who seems to be staying put is Oswin Appollis. This, despite rumours of an approach from FC Porto. Is this Pirates’ best XI? After the sale of Rele Mofokeng, the club needed a statement signing. Christian Pedersen could fit the bill eventually. For now, however, the jury is out. The Norwegian might need to sit on the bench to prove his worth. Chaine; Sebelebele, Sibisi, Seema, Hotto; Nduli, Mbatha; Moremi, Dansin, Appollis; Makgopa. Buccaneers host Milford Meanwhile, Milford FC are the visitors to Orlando Stadium on matchday 1 of the 2026-27 Betway Premiership season. The defending champions have lost several big names, although they are also looking to future-proof their squad by signing exciting youngsters. Pirates vs Milford kicks off on Saturday, 1 August at 15:30.
TechCentral
South African IT spending surging as AI boom lands locally
Gartner’s South African forecast, shared with TechCentral, outpaces the global rate, with data centre spending nearly doubling.
TechCentral
Radical rethink for South Africa’s national AI policy
Government will provide guidelines and leave individual sectors to write their own artificial intelligence strategies.