South Africa’s intensifying cycle of floods, wildfires and severe storms is forcing both government and business to rethink how the country prepares for climate-related disasters, with insurers increasingly positioning early warning systems as a frontline defence against mounting economic losses. On Thursday, Santam and the South African Weather Service (SAWS) announced a partnership aimed at strengthening the country’s weather forecasting and early warning capabilities through the installation of nine new automatic weather stations. The initiative comes as the country grapples with increasingly destructive weather events, including the devastating 2022 KwaZulu-Natal floods, as well as more recent deadly flooding in Mthata in the Eastern Cape last year and in Limpopo and Mpumalanga earlier this year. By expanding SAWS’s observation network, the partnership seeks to close critical forecasting gaps in regions vulnerable to floods, storms and extreme rainfall, particularly along the eastern seaboard where repeated extreme weather has exposed structural weaknesses in monitoring capacity. Santam group chief executive Tavaziva Madzinga said the collaboration reflected growing recognition that climate-related disasters were no longer isolated events but an escalating economic and social risk. The SAWS was the only entity mandated to issue severe weather-related warnings over South Africa, he said.  “By strengthening its observation and forecasting capabilities, we are helping to ensure that early warnings are accessible, credible and localised, so that South Africans can act before weather hazards escalate into disasters.” Madzinga noted that early warning systems should be understood as economic infrastructure rather than optional public services, arguing that earlier alerts could significantly reduce both human and financial losses. “Simply put, early warning enables early action,” Madzinga said. “If people delay travel, secure property, move vehicles or protect agricultural assets based on credible early warnings, exposure is reduced and losses are minimised.” The partnership also highlights how climate change is reshaping the insurance industry. As weather disasters become more frequent and more costly, insurers face rising claims linked to flooding, fires and storm damage, while governments are left grappling with ballooning reconstruction costs. For South Africa, the pressure is particularly acute. Repeated flooding in KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and parts of Limpopo has exposed weaknesses in disaster preparedness systems, while fires and severe storms continue to threaten infrastructure, agriculture and households. SAWS acting chief executive Jonas Mphepya described the partnership as a practical example of how public-private collaboration could strengthen national resilience. “Our network boasts 276 automatic weather stations, 211 automatic rainfall stations, 26 lightning detection network sensors, 25 climate stations and 12 meteorological radar systems,” Mphepya said. “In a time of frequent and intensifying severe weather events, the importance of reinforcing our observational infrastructure, which is the bedrock of our weather and climate services, cannot be overemphasised.” Rudzani Malala, the SAWS head of disaster risk reduction, said South Africa’s early warning infrastructure was both technically critical and increasingly urgent.  “This observational infrastructure is the backbone of the weather and climate services that the SAWS renders day in and day out,” he said. The system underpinned the country’s ability to protect lives through timely alerts. “It is this infrastructure on which the country relies to ensure that every person in our communities is protected from hazardous weather, water or climate events through lifesaving early warning systems by the end of 2027 in line with the United Nations’ Early Warnings for All initiative,” Malala said. The newly commissioned stations are operational and integrated into the SAWS network.  Four pilot stations were installed in Limpopo and Mpumalanga between 2021 and 2022, while five additional stations have recently been commissioned in KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, the Western Cape and Gauteng. The SAWS said the sites were selected based on areas with known observational gaps and heightened exposure to disruptive weather systems. An automatic weather station electronically records and transmits data on wind speed, rainfall, temperature, humidity and air pressure at intervals ranging from five minutes to hourly, feeding directly into forecasting systems used for severe weather warnings. Each station costs about R250 000 and forms part of the infrastructure underpinning the country’s broader disaster preparedness system. SAWS technical services manager Nomvuso Busizi said significant gaps remained in parts of the country that were highly vulnerable to extreme weather. She pointed to the recent flooding in Mthatha as an example of the consequences of insufficient coverage. “Through the Santam project, we managed to install one station there but during the installation we identified areas where there are gaps. We need one or two stations to fully cover that area.” The partnership also forms part of South Africa’s commitments under the UN’s Early Warnings for All initiative, led by the World Meteorological Organisation, which requires that “every person on Earth is protected by early warning systems” by 2027. According to the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, early warning systems are among the most cost-effective tools available for reducing disaster losses, yet remain underfunded globally despite rapidly escalating climate risks In October, South Africa became the first G20 country to launch its national Early Warnings for All roadmap, a framework designed to coordinate investments across the government and improve disaster preparedness from national to local level. But officials acknowledge the scale of the challenge.  “Here is the kicker,” Malala said. “South Africa needs R1 billion to fully implement the Early Warnings for All roadmap,” he said.  “Put differently, the country needs R1bn to ensure that its people are protected from hazardous weather, water or climate events through lifesaving early warning systems by 2027.” The money went towards bolstering observational infrastructure including automatic weather stations, capacity building, public awareness and coordination of the roadmap rollout, he said.  While some might question affordability, he argued the economic logic was clear. “Some might say R1bn is too steep. The painful truth is that we stand to lose far more if we do not invest,” Malala said. “Already we lose billions every year rebuilding what is destroyed during severe weather events.” The government would not be able to fund the programme on its own, he said, calling for stronger private sector participation and praising Santam’s involvement as an example of effective public-private collaboration. Malala added that climate impacts extended far beyond infrastructure damage. “Severe weather affects human life, livelihoods, property, public health, economic stability, infrastructure, energy systems, food security and environmental systems.” 

The Democratic Alliance (DA) heads into its KwaZulu-Natal provincial congress this weekend with the party facing mounting pressure to consolidate its position before the upcoming local government elections. Delegates will elect a new provincial leadership team in a contest expected to shape the DA’s electoral strategy in a province where coalition politics, shifting voter loyalties and the rise of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) have dramatically altered the political landscape. Whoever emerges victorious will inherit the task of defending the DA’s recent gains while attempting to expand the party’s support beyond its traditional urban and suburban voter base. The DA has not had a black provincial leader in KwaZulu-Natal since 2015, when Zwakele Mncwango took the helm before later defecting to ActionSA. He had succeeded Sizwe Mchunu, who later joined the ANC. The front-runners for the provincial leadership are understood to be Sithembiso Ngema and Mzamo Billy. Ngema, who served as provincial deputy leader under outgoing leader Francois Rodgers, said the DA must deepen its presence in townships and rural communities if it wanted to grow meaningfully in the province. “For me, leadership is about growing the DA by growing our communities, especially townships and rural communities. That is where the heart of leadership lies,” Ngema said. Having joined the DA in 2006, Ngema said the party must position itself as a credible alternative to both the ANC and MK Party in communities where it had historically struggled to gain traction. Billy said the next provincial leader would need to navigate an increasingly competitive political environment shaped by coalition politics and voter volatility. “A strong DA starts with strong people. We must support our councillors and empower our activists — they are the backbone of our movement,” Billy said. “KwaZulu-Natal is entering a new political era defined by coalition government and increased competition. We must rise to the occasion.” Billy stressed the importance of preserving the government of national unity, in which the DA holds key cabinet positions, including finance and public works and infrastructure. “I commend the work being done by our DA MECs and fully support the continuation of this government,” he said. The DA heads into the congress buoyed by its growing foothold in parts of KwaZulu-Natal.  In the 2021 local government elections, the party secured control of uMngeni Local Municipality centred on Howick, a breakthrough widely credited to mayor Chris Pappas, whose administration has received national attention for improving governance and service delivery. Pappas was widely viewed as a potential contender for provincial leader but declined nomination. The DA has since signalled ambitions to expand its municipal footprint in the province, particularly in eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality and Msunduzi Local Municipality. But the rise of the MK Party under former president Jacob Zuma has complicated the political terrain. Dean Macpherson, the DA provincial chairperson and a candidate for re-election to the position, remained confident the party would play a decisive role in coalition formations across the province after the local government elections.

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Soweto Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2026 concluded its three-day showcase this past weekend at the Soweto Theatre in Jabulani, featuring collections by emerging and established designers. One of the standout showcases on the final day came from Hoss by Sass, designed by Sanele Thabethe. The collection drew attention for its mix of casual wear, formal garments and red carpet-ready looks. Hoss by Sass. Pictures: Supplied Structured gowns, tailored silhouettes and contemporary eveningwear were presented alongside more relaxed and wearable pieces. Speaking to The Citizen, Thabethe said she enjoys experimenting with different concepts in her designs. “So with us, you get art, wearable art; you get fearless, you get defined and bold. I like to play around with different things,” she said. Thabethe said the collection also introduced unisex clothing for the first time as part of the brand’s move towards greater inclusivity. “I’ve started trying to incorporate males into the mix as well. Honestly, we just cater for people who want to be fun and daring,” she said. “There’s no age limit, so to speak, because the age ranges from 17-year-olds. I make dresses for people like my mother, 40 to 50-year-olds.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Thando Dludlu (@thando.dludluu) Local and international showcases Other highlights from the showcase included Finch by Kwanele Thusi, which presented an all-male collection featuring pink velvet garments, and Originally Kasified Clothing’s The Rebirth of Cool Phase Two, inspired by denim and township culture. Textile designer Nobuzwe Mabona collaborated with Eastern Cape designer Ayabulela Mzananda on a presentation focused on textile design and print work. International designer Viktória Varga made her African debut at the showcase with a collection featuring evening dresses, statement skirts and hand-painted garments. “Presenting at Soweto Fashion Week was an incredibly powerful experience,” Varga said. “There’s a raw energy and authenticity here. It felt like a true celebration of creativity, culture, and individuality.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bravo store (@bravo_store_r) According to organisers, the Autumn/Winter 2026 season aimed to highlight local fashion talent while expanding the event’s international presence. Soweto Fashion Week founder Stephen Manzini said the season reflected the strength of South Africa’s fashion industry. “I am pleased to see that the Soweto Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2026 season delivered with such strength and creative excellence,” he said. “The collections were a true reflection of the depth of talent within our industry.” Soweto Fashion Week is expected to return later this year for its Spring/Summer 2026 season.

Head coach JP Pietersen said the Sharks would re-examine their structures to combat a spiralling injury crisis that seems to occur every year. However, they would do so only in the pre-season next year, as they still have two United Rugby Championship league phase matches left. 22 injured players The Sharks host Benetton at 4pm on Saturday, and then Zebre Parma again at Kings Park next Saturday, in dead rubbers for all sides involved after none of them were able to qualify for the play-offs. Tenth place and six wins from 16 games so below par for a proud union that reached the semi-finals and won the URC’s SA Shield for the first time last year. The Sharks, too, battled a rampant injury problem under John Plumtree then, which the then-coach warned could affect the Springboks if it was not addressed. Twelve past and present Springboks are among the 22 players currently injured at the Sharks, highlighting the toll of a gruelling schedule, particularly on South Africa’s top players. The injuries, and comings and goings of Springboks, meant that Pietersen, and Plumtree before him, could not build much team cohesion. “If you don’t have players available, you don’t build cohesion, you don’t build consistency. I think that’s been a trend,” Pietersen said after naming another youthful side for Benetton. “We could never get our team together for more than four games.” Case in point, 18-year-old Zekhethelo Siyaya moves from fullback to flyhalf for the injured Jordan Hendrikse and Siya Masuku, with departing Jean Smith on the bench. Twenty-year-old Jaco Williams returns from injury to take his spot at fullback. Regular fullbacks Aphelele Fassi and Yaw Penxe are out injured, as is another teenage fullback, Luan Giliomee. Sharks to address the matter next season “A lot of them are freak injuries and a lot of them are just unlucky injuries. “Hopefully, we can get better with our pre-season and planning and take a different approach to get more player availability. That’s something we can try in the pre-season.” The coach said that in order to compete in both the URC and the Champions and Challenge Cups, the Sharks would need 40 available players. “We need to look at how our strength and conditioning, medical staff, and our rugby programme can be better in the pre-season.” Pietersen said this was a conversation he would have with new attack coach Scott Mathie when he arrived from Edinburgh.

Due to severe adverse weather conditions forecast for Cape Town and the Western Cape this weekend, the organisers of the 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K, after consulting with the City of Cape Town authorities, local authorities, and the appointed safety officials, have made the decision to cancel the event scheduled to take place on Sunday, 10 May. According to the latest weather reports, a cold front is expected to make landfall over the Western Cape on Sunday morning, followed by a second cold front on Monday. Gale force winds The forecast includes disruptive rainfall, strong interior and gale force coastal winds, as well as cold to very cold, wet and windy conditions across the region. Expected impacts include flooding of roads and settlements (formal and informal), as well as dangerous and difficult driving conditions. “Our Operations Team has been closely monitoring the weather predictions and engaging daily with the City of Cape Town authorities, local authorities, and the appointed safety officials, in the lead-up to race weekend,” said Dezroy Poole, Race Director Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series. “This decision was not taken lightly, especially considering the anticipation surrounding the event and the commitment shown by our runners, sponsors and partners. However, under the expected conditions, we could not guarantee a safe and enjoyable race experience for all involved. We extend our sincere appreciation to every stakeholder for their understanding and ongoing support of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series.” Gesture of goodwill As a gesture of goodwill, and in recognition of the difficult economic climate many South Africans are facing, the race sponsor has taken the decision to offer participants a choice between a full refund or free entry to the 2027 Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K. In addition, participants will still be able to visit Grand Parade to collect their official race packs and event merchandise. Were you scheduled to run Sunday’s race? Let us know by clicking on the comment banner below …

Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Peterson has seemingly responded to AI-generated images of himself alongside singer Kelly Khumalo. The pics of the soccer player and the star have gone viral on social media. Kelly has previously been linked to the late Orlando Pirates goalkeeper, Senzo Meyiwa, and former Amakhosi player, Mthokozisi Yende.  NO, KELLY KHUMALO IS NOT DATING KAIZER CHIEFS GOALKEEPER On X, images of the likeness of Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen kissing and embracing Kelly Khumalo have gone viral. The AI-generated images have sparked backlash amongst South Africans, particularly soccer fans. Kelly, who has long been rumoured to have had a “curse” on her relationships, was last linked to footballer Mthokozisi Yende, also a Chiefs player. The former couple have a three-year-old daughter, Luna. Nooooo 😭😭😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/iG9axCVUkW— Hermaine M (@HermaineM) May 7, 2026 Kelly has another daughter, Thingo, with late Orlando Pirates goalkeeper, Senzo Meyiwa, who was shot and killed during an attack in 2014. The murder investigation into the Buccaneer’s star’s death – filled with allegations of foul play – continues more than a decade later. BRANDON PETERSON SHOWS OFF BEAUTIFUL FAMILY Amid social media speculation, Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Peterson posted pictures of his family on his IG Stories The 31-year-old is married to his wife Liezl Peterson, and the couple have three children. In the professional pics, which centred on a Mother’s Day theme, the soccer star posed with his loved ones on a picturesque beach in Cape Town. KELLY KHUMALO: ‘I’M TIRED Just days before the AI-generated pic with the Kaizer Chiefs player went viral, Kelly Khumalo appealed to the public to stop speculating about her involvement in Senzo Meyiwa’s death. On her TikTok account, she said: “It stops here, and it stops today. If you strongly believe that I am capable of what you accuse me of… come and get me. I’ve had enough of you people dragging my name through the mud”. She added, “Until then, back off”.

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