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.

In a dramatic encounter in Belfast, the Stormers fought back to secure a 38-all draw against Ulster, showcasing resilience despite their struggles with discipline and handling errors.

Durban City and Stellenbosch FC locked horns in nail biting 0-0 draw at a soaking wet Chatsworth Stadium on Friday night.

The Cheetahs qualified for the Currie Cup Premier Division after Griquas missed a match-winning 84th-minute conversion. Coach Frans Steyn’s men won 32-31 in Bloemfontein on Friday night to finish with 35 log points from their nine SA Cup matches – eight more than the fourth-placed Boland Cavaliers and fifth-placed SWD Eagles, who are expected to beat Eastern Province and the Leopards, respectively, on Saturday. According to SA Rugby tournament rules, in the event of a log points tie, the first tiebreaker is the number of games a team won before points difference comes into play. Two bonus points – for scoring four tries and losing by seven points or less – would likely not have been enough for the Cheetahs, who ultimately ended a six-match losing streak against Griquas. The Cheetahs led 25-12 at half-time after tries to hooker Chucky van der Westhuizen, winger Cohen Jasper and scrumhalf Rewan Kruger. Winger Munier Hartzenberg scored the hosts’ bonus-point try in the 51st minute to make it 32-19 before Griquas fought back. This story first appeared on sarugbymag.co.za. It is republished here with permission.

Mother’s Day falls on Sunday, 11 May 2026, and whether you’re planning a creative outing, an elegant afternoon tea, or a long, indulgent lunch, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate. Here are some of The Citizen’s top picks across Gauteng, with a few week-long picks thrown in. Events and experiences For something a little different this year, consider pairing quality time with a hands-on activity. Samsung DQX at Design Quarter in Sandton is hosting A Morning Made for Mom on Saturday, 9 May, from 09:30 am to 11:30 am. The curated morning includes a live culinary experience with cookbook author Neo Nontso, a beauty masterclass by Catrice Cosmetics, and a bouquet-making session – all for R250 per person, or R450 for two. It’s a genuinely thoughtful way to spend the morning before the big day. Book on: Quicket If you’re looking for something more intimate and refined, Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa in Morningside is hosting Celebrating Mamas on Wednesday, 13 May. The afternoon with baking expert Janet Kohler of Thyme2 Travel includes a glass of Graham Beck Cap Classique on arrival, a full afternoon tea, and a live demonstration of how to make a chocolate torte and angel food cake – all for R850 per person, which includes a gorgeous Ardmore tea towel to take home. Book on: Quicket Those who’d rather stretch the celebration beyond the weekend can head to the Leaping Frog Lipstick Workshop at Beira Alta on 30 May, from 3 pm to 6 pm. For R380 per person, you’ll get a hands-on lipstick-making session, a welcome drink, snacks, a branded picnic blanket, and a goodie bag. Spaces are limited on all three events, so book early.Book on: Quicket For something creative in Centurion, UpsideDown Eatery in Rooihuiskraal is running a Polymer Earring Making Class on 16 May from 10 am to 1 pm. At R380 per person, it includes all materials, a welcome drink, and a picnic box, and best of all, no experience is needed. Bookings can be made via their website at upsidedown.co.za or Instagram. Where to Eat Gauteng restaurants are pulling out all the stops this Mother’s Day. A few highlights from across the province: AURUM Restaurant, Sandton – R1 150 per person for a relaxed family-style lunch with a welcome drink, live entertainment, and a gift for Mom (12 pm – 4 pm). Kora, Sandton – R1 000 per person for a 5-course menu with live entertainment. No under-13s. Roar Bistro & Bar, Sandton – R590 per person (children half price) for a high tea with live music and welcome bubbles (11 am – 3 pm). The Forum Hyde Park – R890 per person for a 4-course New York-inspired brunch with a complimentary glass of Cap Classique on arrival (11 am – 2 pm). The Salt Road, Houghton – R695 per person for a Mother’s Day High Tea (12:30 pm -3:30 pm). Brunos, Centurion – R500 per person for an Italian-inspired “La Dolce Mamma” brunch with a mimosa and beverage station (12:30 pm – 4 pm). The Cradle Restaurant, Lanseria – R795 per person for a set menu featuring venison carpaccio, lamb, duck, and raspberry cheesecake in a scenic bush setting (12 pm – 5pm). While the following three picks have not advertised any packaged specials for Mother’s Day, they’re worth the drive. La Parada, Newmarket Lifestyle Centre, Alberton is a highly rated Spanish-inspired restaurant known for generous portions, a warm atmosphere, and exceptional floor staff. Open from 10:30 on Sundays, it’s a lively spot for the whole family. A Churrasqueira, Newmarket Park, Alberton is a beloved Portuguese grill house with a strong local following. Famous for prawns, trinchado, and wood-fired chicken, it has a large play area for kids and plenty of outdoor seating, making it a fantastic casual option for a family celebration lunch. Open Sundays until 5pm. Fahrenheit Seafood & Grill, Alberton rounds out the south Joburg picks as a reliable, family-focused venue with an indoor play area, solid seafood and grill options, and a track record of going the extra mile for special occasions. It is open until 20:00 on Sundays. All bookings can be made via dineplan If you’re further afield, The Oyster Box Hotel in Umhlanga offers both a high tea at R790 per person and a 3-course Ocean Terrace lunch at R1 600 per person – one of the more luxurious options in the country. For those in the Western Cape, there is Tobago’s at Radisson Collection, which offers waterfront views and a 3-course buffet with chardonnay for R750pp. The Azure at Twelve Apostles offers arguably the most scenic option in Cape Town for their ocean-view buffet from R725pp. Pigalle, Green Point, is the most lavish option of this bunch with a 5-course dinner, live music and gifts for R950pp. Pigalle is typically closed on Sundays, so while their Mother’s Day 5-course special is confirmed via Dineplan, it’s worth calling ahead or booking directly through Dineplan to confirm seating arrangements for 11 May. Act fast; tables for Mother’s Day fill up quickly.

Charlize Theron has spoken candidly about practising an age-old African superstition she learnt as a child in South Africa. The Hollywood actress was born in Benoni and immigrated to the US soon after finishing her studies. CHARLIZE THERON ON AFRICAN SUPERSITION Appearing on the Skip Intro Podcast, Charlize Theron spoke candidly about her South African background. Speaking to host Krista Smith, the 52-year-old recounted how growing up in “witchcraft culture” had given her an “irrational fear”. She said: “I have this tremendous fear that when I cut my fingernails, someone one is going to take them and put a spell on me. So Im always very adamant to cut my own fingernails and do it in the toilet and flush it down and make sure that it’s gone She added: “It’s a stupid thing that has stayed with me”. Charlize jokingly added, “This is why I’m alone”. This is the most South African thing 😂😂. I thought it’s only us black people who believed this. I was shocked by the comments as well. pic.twitter.com/jZaSt0DTEr— Portia Moemedi (@PortiaMoemedi) May 7, 2026 The clip of her comments went viral on social media, with many South Africans sharing similar sentiments. X user @KKarjiker tweeted: “My mom had us do this, and we all still do it!” Another, @FootballFemmes posted: “Legit still have this irrational fear as well. Very South African coded 😂😂”. ‘MOST BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE YOU WILL MEET’ In another recent podcast, Charlize Theron spoke about the night her mother, Gerda, shot and killed her father, Charles Theron. The actress’s father has been described as an “alcoholic” and “abuser”. Despite witnessing the traumatic event, Charlize still has fond memories of her home country. She told The New York Times: “South Africa… the country that I grew up in… and I think we covered the hardship, but there is a gratefulness and I really truly feel blessed that I came from there, that I was born there, that I have that soil in my bones.” She added: “I feel like I’m from there. I feel like I share something with the people of South Africa. And the reason I do is because they’re the most beautiful people that you will ever meet.”

Former Kaizer Chiefs head coach Muhsin Ertugral has backed the team to continue with Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze. The duo took over as co-coaches in September last year after head coach Nasreddine Nabi. With a third-place finish almost secured in the Betway Premiership, the Turkish mentor has urged his former club to give the two coaches another season. “Continuity is not about just protecting the coaches. It is about protecting the direction,” Ertugral told FARPost. “If there is a clear idea, if there is visible progress, even at present, somehow the results are inconsistent, for me, the worst decision is to start again. “Keeping the coaches for me is important. For me, they need to keep the coaches.” Kaizer Chiefs are expected to appoint a new permanent head coach next season, but Ertugral feels the club might go backwards He believes the current setup is perfect going forward and any changes could reset the team in a rebuilding phase. “The question is to ask honestly, was there ever real continuity in recent years? “Many changes have damaged the success rate at the club, in my opinion, because each change had its own direction,” Ertugral added. Ertugral explains why Chiefs coaches should stay “So every new coach started again from zero. I think all the resets have broken whatever structure was beginning to form. “Those changes delayed one thing that Chiefs really need: identity. “At some point, Chiefs must decide what they want to be. Not only the next result, said Ertugral. “That’s what I am saying, not the next result. It’s more important to have continuity. They have had too many resets.” Will Chiefs keep the co-coaches?

The economics of desktop computing have, for the first time in the PC’s long history, been broken by the data centre.

Airtel Africa has delayed its mobile money initial public offering to late 2026, citing war-driven margin pressures.