There are car crash interviews, and then there is Leonardo Maria Del Vecchio’s podcast appearance this week.

Thabo Mbeki's recent testimony at the Khampepe Commission sparked criticism and debate as he confronted racial prejudice but fell short of addressing the deeper issues of racism in South Africa.

At the Singularity Summit held at the Sandton Convention Centre this week, specialists from across the world gathered to share their ideas on the future of medicine, with one doctor sharing his passion for music and how he is using it to fight cancer. Dr Martin Zschornak, a German radiation oncologist and music producer also known as DJ Seth Schwartz, has combined his enthusiasm for people and music to try change the way cancer patients heal. ‘Every day, I watch my patients fight illness’ During Zschornak’s presentation, he shared his experience of working with cancer patients and contrasted it with the nightlife he often takes part in. He said he felt compelled to share the healing power of musical notes. “Every day my patients lay inside of linear accelerators (radiation machines), thick machines that aim invisible beams of photons and electrons at their tumours. “I watch them fight with everything they have, and then I leave the hospital, pick up my violin and sometimes I play for them too,” he said. ‘One living organism’ “For most of my life, these two worlds: medicine and music, lived in different universes,” “Medicine and its protocol, its peer review and music with its mystery and power to make a room full of strangers, breathe like one living organism.” He then started an exercise which required every individual in the room to partake in a deep breath in, and an exhale while sounding the D note he played on the violin. “Aaah,” everyone said as the chord reverberated through the room. Dr. Zcshornak creates one living organism of sound in a room full of people at the Singularity Summit South Africa. Video: Caslian Scott Medicine and music For a moment, a room full of strangers breathed together calmly, creating a beautiful sound that expressed the immense power of music and its ability to connect others in a way that cannot be seen but is deeply felt and heard. “And sound, the thing that you just made together is becoming a serious tool against cancer,” said Zschornak. The violin He reflected on his days growing up and his two obsessions: the violin and cancer, which he described as “divine and healing”. “I was captivated by the idea that a piece of wood, some strings, some horsehair and a bit of rosin could make people laugh and cry. “The second was medicine and cancer, which is the deepest puzzle I could imagine.” He explained that he could imagine cells that have forgotten how to play together in the orchestra and have gone on a rampage of their own, which encouraged him to pursue both. Playing both sides From being behind the decks at Burning Man festivals to shifts at a German Hospital Radiation Oncology Centre treating patients, Zschornak said that he noticed when the music finds the right frequency, something happens that goes beyond emotion. “First the room goes quiet, then it starts to breathe differently, and the bodies of strangers begin to move as one.” “I felt the wave of something I couldn’t explain yet.” Histotripsy Using a quote from Nikola Tesla on finding the sequence of the universe, Zschornak said that one should be taken through a process of energy, frequency and vibration. Uncovering the term histotripsy, Zschornak attributed the concept to a team of researchers in Michigan who spent over two decades developing the treatment. “The principle behind histotripsy [is] quite pure poetry that is precisely focused ultrasound waves of microscopic cloud-like bubbles inside the tumour.” He explained that these bubbles expand and collapse, leading to the tumour liquifying and the body clearing it away. Body’s immune system response The focused ultrasound frequencies are applied from outside the body, creating a cloud of bubbles that collapse in under a millisecond, causing the tumour to liquefy and clear away. “The immune system finished the job,” Zschornak said. “No incision, no radiation dose, no heat, just sound.” Zschornak also pointed out that in October 2023, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorised histotripsy for the treatment of liver tumours in humans. Test results “So far we treat about 3 000 liver-related patients and over 58 hospitals worldwide,” Zschornak added. He noted that tests show these methods are effective in destroying 50% to 75% of cancerous cells, allowing the body’s immune system to get rid of the rest. “And the cancer did not come back.” Music as treatment Zschornak encouraged patients to ask their doctors whether music is part of their treatment, to seriously consider therapeutic ultrasound, and to dare to cross the line between art and science. The first time he noticed an impactful difference was when treating a young female patient, diagnosed with a brain tumour. “The clinic had become her whole world and in the middle of it all, she was getting married,” Zschornak said. “She had no way of organising anything, in order to have the wedding she had imagined.” Hospital ward becomes wedding venue He decided to bring his violin to the ward where the team orchestrated a ceremony for her. “For a few minutes, she was not a patient, she was a bride. “And we weren’t doctors and nurses in a clinical environment anymore; there we were witnesses of life being lived. “I watched her face change, and as a doctor I know that look, it’s the nervous system arriving somewhere that is safe and filled with gratitude,” Zschornak said. Music and the nervous system He explained that this moment left him with a question: What’s the relationship between what music can do to the nervous system and what the nervous system can do to rewire the brain? “Last year, the Journal of Cancer pulled 13 studies of music during radiotherapy where more than 1 000 patients noted reduced anxiety levels. “Fatigue [also reduced], especially in Columbia, where a randomised trial of 110 patients attended one single session of live group music therapy during chemo. “The anxiety dropped and the well-being rose compared to the standard care alone.” ‘It may or may not work’ “So music can work, and sometimes it doesn’t,” Zschornak admitted. He emphasised the importance of designing and testing the right sound, at the right time, in the right setting. “I treat patients with radiotherapy every day and I know what fear does to the body, so let me be precise with where the evidence stops,” Zschornak said. “We know music lowers anxiety and that early sickness shifts stress hormones and immune markers, but the last thing in the chain is still missing – do any of these change the tumour itself?” Zschornak asks. The research gap He said nobody has shown whether music actually changes the tumour itself and added that he will keep working on this frontier. “I know sound will not replace radiotherapy and will not treat every cancer, but I believe sound can be a part of that cancer care,” said Zschornak. “Sound is already breaking tumours a part in hospitals today, sound is not a background noise, sound is physics, soundtracks, biology and increasingly sound is medicine. “The musician and the oncologist don’t have to be two different people standing on opposite sides of the patient. “No, they can be the same person with the same instrument, asking the same questions from a different angle.”

If you can’t beat them, the saying goes, join them. Given the recent flood of Chinese vehicles onto the world’s auto markets, as well as their ensuing popularity, some “legacy” manufacturers are running scared. Chinese cars are inexpensive and are increasingly proving to be good value for money in terms of build and technology. Ford looks east It was therefore hardly surprising that a somewhat beleaguered Ford cast its glance eastwards in the ’90s and bought a significant shareholding in the little-known Jiangling Motor Corporation (JMC). In doing so, Ford was following in the footsteps of its great American rival, General Motors, which had established a joint venture with SAIC Motor (owners since 2007 of the once-iconic British marque MG) a few years before. JMC and Ford started production of their first joint product, the Ford-designed Transit van, in 1997. JMC supplied key components such as engines and axles. The Ford Territory Titanium’s interior combines leather seating, multi-colour ambient lighting and modern technology to create a comfortable, premium-feeling cabin. Picture: Jim Freeman A second JV, Jiangling Ford Motor Technology (JFMT), was set up in 2021 and focused on producing passenger vehicles. These included the Ford Equator Sport, which is sold in South Africa as the Territory. According to the Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa, “Ford led the Territory’s design through the Ford Design Studio in Melbourne, Australia, and Shanghai, China”. Testing and development took place in both countries. “Ford today holds an approximately 32% holding in [JMC]. This enduring partnership combines Ford’s global engineering, design and vehicle-development capabilities with JMC’s manufacturing expertise in China.” Three models, three price points The new three-model Territory series of mid-sized sports utility vehicles ranges in price from R534 900 for the entry level Ambiente, through R584 900 (Trend) to R643 900 for the flagship Titanium. That’s a heck of a price variance for three SUVs that are not only visually indistinguishable from one another but also feature the same 1.8l EcoBoost turbocharged, direct-injection petrol engines and seven-speed automatic gearboxes. Peak performance figures are identical: 138kW@5 200rpm (power) and 318Nm@1 750-3 000rpm (torque). The difference lies in the levels of luxury, driver aids and safety features, with the “Oasis Green” Titanium I test drove being comfort-specced to the max with heated leather seats and multi-colour interior ambient lighting. The Ford Territory features bold SUV styling and sleek design lines, giving it a modern and confident road presence. Picture: Jim Freeman Standard features include an anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake assist, collision warning and auto braking, traction and stability control, and lane change and blind spot warning. Altogether, driving the Ford Territory was a very pleasant experience. Who is the Territory competing against? However, I kept asking myself what Ford has actually achieved through its strategic partnership with JMC? It is difficult to identify the Territory’s direct competition: names that spring to mind are Toyota’s RAV4 and Corolla Cross, Haval H6, Jaecoo J7, Chery Tiggo 7 and 8 Pro, Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson. While there are similarities, there are also significant differences, mainly in terms of engine size and cost. First, it’s necessary to compare like with like. Territory is petrol-driven and consequently one must ignore diesel and hybrid models, or those that come with four-wheel-drive. Engine size and pricing matter The Territory’s engine is larger than those of the Jaecoo, Kia, Corolla Cross and Tiggo 7 (all 1.6ℓ) but smaller than RAV4, Haval H6, Tiggo 8 Pro and the Tucson – all 2.0ℓ. It is only against the 1.6 Kia Sportage, Tiggo 8 Pro and RAV4 2.0VX that the Territory really competes on price, with the South Korean coming in at between R738 995 and R823 995. The Ford Territory Titanium combines modern technology with driver-assistance features. Picture: Jim Freeman The Chery sells at between R669 900 and R729 900 but, to be honest, it is superior to the Ford is every aspect. Toyota’s only petrol-driven variant of the RAV4, sells at R799 900. The Toyota Corolla Cross’ petrol variants are also 1.8ℓ but the genre is cross-over rather than SUV. The most expensive version of the Cross is nonetheless R16 500 cheaper than the Territory Ambiente. Ford will always have its South African devotees but I question whether a rather over-priced, charisma-shy SUV will wangle its way into our hearts.

Orlando Pirates have reached the CAF Champions League group stages for the second time in four seasons, securing a significant financial boost in the process. The Buccaneers cruised past Namibian champions African Stars, winning 5-0 on aggregate to book their place in the group stages. Having struggled to progress beyond the preliminary rounds in previous campaigns, Pirates will be pleased with their latest achievement as they look to establish themselves among Africa’s elite clubs. The qualification will also provide a boost for Abdeslam Ouaddou’s men as they aim to build on their domestic success and challenge for continental honours. How much will Orlando Pirates earn? Pirates are set to earn approximately R12 million for reaching the group stages of the CAF Champions League. The amount represents a significant financial reward for the Soweto giants, who will now have an opportunity to increase their earnings by progressing further in the competition. The group-stage qualification prize is also around R2 million more than what the club would have earned for winning the MTN8 final. With the group stages secured, Orlando Pirates will turn their attention to advancing to the knockout rounds and potentially challenging for the continental title. Reaching the final and winning the CAF Champions League will be among Pirates’ major ambitions this season. With reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns having been eliminated, the Buccaneers will have an opportunity to carry South Africa’s hopes in the competition. An improved squad could give Ouaddou’s side the depth required to compete against some of the continent’s strongest teams, although the group stages will present a significant test. Orlando Pirates must navigate six group-stage matches and finish among the top two teams in their group to qualify for the quarter-finals. Progressing beyond that stage would bring further financial rewards and put the Sea Robbers closer to their ultimate goal of being crowned African champions. Will Pirates earn a second star this season?

South African National Parks (SANParks) announced an increase entry prices to all its parks as of Sunday, 1 November 2026. Here’s how much it cost you to visit the Addo Elephant Park in the Eastern Cape from next month. HOW MUCH IT COSTS TO ENTER ADDO ELEPHANT PARK Addo Elephant Park is one of the most popular parks in South Africa, located in the Eastern Cape, about 30 minutes away from Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth). The park is the third-largest national park, and is not home to just the traditional Big Five, but the Big 7, which includes the Southern right whale and Great white shark in its marine environment. Visitors planning to visit this park will pay a new entrance fee as of Sunday, 1 November as SANParks introduces its new conservation fee for the 2026/2027 financial year. The new fee applies until 31 October 2027. According to the new tariff schedule international visitors see the biggest price hike with locals only having to fork out a couple rands extra. South African: Adults will pay R115 per day and children aged between two and 11 will pay R57. Children under two may still enter for free. SADC Nationals: Adults will pay R225 and children R112. International visitors: R492 per adult and R246 per child. SADC countries include: Angola Botswana Comoros Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Eswatini (Swaziland) Lesotho Madagascar Malawi Mauritius Mozambique Namibia Seychelles Tanzania Zambia Zimbabwe HOW MUCH WILL IT COST TO TAKE YOUR FAMILY TO ADDO ELEPHANT PARK? A family of two adults and two children will pay R344 for a day visit from November, compared with R328 under the current tariffs. This means the family will spend an additional R16 on park entrance fees. However, international families see a significant increase. Two international adults and two children will pay R1696 per day, compared with R1476 under the current rates. This is an additional R220 for the same visit. READ | West Coast National Park: How much you’ll pay to enter from 1 November READ | Kruger National Park: How much you’ll pay to enter from 1 November READ | How much does it cost to: Take your family to the Blyde River Canyon? READ | How much does it cost to: Take your family to visit Robben Island? READ | How much does it cost to: Visit the Two Oceans Aquarium? READ | How much does it cost to: Take your family to Johannesburg Zoo? READ | How much does it cost to: Take your family to Gold Reef City? READ | How much does it cost to: Take the family to uShaka Marine World? READ | How much does it cost to: Attend the Nedbank Golf Challenge? READ | How much does it cost to: Visit Kirstenbosch Gardens? READ | How much does it cost to: Attend St Stithians? READ | How much does it cost to: Catch the Cape Town Red Bus? READ | How much does it cost to: Visit Cape Point? READ | How much does it cost to: Buy a Kaizer Chiefs season ticket? READ | How much does it cost to: Take the cable car up Table Mountain? READ | How much does it cost to: Take the family to watch the Springboks?

The presidency has pulled its website offline, two days after the PHP project released fixes for critical flaws.

A hacker claims it has 366GB of data from the insurer that handles injury claims for mineworkers and metalworkers.