The Rocky Horror Show at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre till 12 Oct

 

By Fred Felton | Sep. 28, 2025

KickstArt is back with a brand-new production of the cult classic, The Rocky Horror Show, with performances at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre up till 12 October.

Keryn Lynne Scott as Janet, Tshepo Ncokoane as Frank N Furter, Bryan Hiles as Brad. Photo: Val Adamson. 

The show is directed by Steven Stead, with set designs by multi award-winning Greg King, costume designs by internationally lauded Monaco-based Terrence Bray. Musical director is Evan Roberts who leads a live onstage band playing all the classics like The Time Warp, Transvestite, Touch-a-Touch Me and Damn It, Janet. Choreography is done by Simone Mann.

The cast list is impressive and includes Tshepo Ncokoane as the iconic cross-dressing mad scientist, Frank N Furter, Durban actor Bryan Hiles as Brad, Keryn Lynne Scott as Janet. Schoeman Smit as Riff Raff, Belinda Henwood as Magenta, Kaylee McIlroy as Columbia, William Young as Rocky, Lyle Buxton as Eddie/Dr Scott, and Michael Gritten as The Narrator.

The Rocky Horror Show  is a delicious homage to kitsch and campy B-grade horror and science fiction movies. Interesting note, it is also credited for igniting the punk rock look of ripped fishnets, statement eyeliner, wild, dyed hair and not to mention scarlet red lipstick.

The Rocky Horror Show  runs at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre in  Durban till 12 October. Performances are at 7h30pm Tuesday to Saturday, 2h30pm Saturday and 6pm on Sunday.

Bookings through Webtickets.

New school brings hope to Cornubia

 

New school brings hope to Cornubia 

LETHIWE NGCOBO

KWAZULU-NATAL MEC for Education Sipho Hlomuka, together with eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba and other City leadership officially unveiled the Solomon Mahlangu Primary School in Cornubia Phase 1.

The event marked a significant step in the City’s commitment to building integrated, dignified communities. Cornubia is already home to over 2 600 Breaking New Ground houses that are occupied. Initially operating from mobile classrooms with just 151 learners, the school has now grown into a state-of-the-art institution serving more than 1 800 learners from Grades R to 7.

The school stands as a tribute to struggle hero Solomon Mahlangu. The project cost R61.9 million, including professional fees, and created employment for 98 community members during the construction phase.

MEC Hlomuka said: ‘’Investing in education is key to ensuring the City’s future is in capable hands.’’ Parent Nompumelelo Kheswa expressed her appreciation for the school. ‘’Having this school nearby has been life-changing as transport fees previously were high,’’ said Kheswa.

Employment for 54 graduates

 

Employment for 54 graduates

LETHIWE NGCOBO

FIFTY-FOUR young people are now permanently employed after taking part in the Work Readiness Programme (WRP). This is a collaborative initiative between the City, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, and the Global Business Services sector.

The City, together with stakeholders, celebrated the graduation of participants recently. All the graduates have secured permanent positions at Amalfi, a local Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) contact centre. The WRP equips unemployed youth with vital skills for the BPO sector, preparing them for participation in the formal economy.

Among the 54 graduates honoured at the ceremony was Nqobile Ngcobo, a qualified accountant. After struggling to find work in her field, Ngcobo embraced the opportunity offered by the WRP. She joined Amalfi in April as a sales consultant on a Canadian campaign. Her hard work paid off as she was promoted to Quality Analyst where she ensures products and services meet the high standards set as well as oversees daily operations at the call centre.

Another inspiring story is that of Angelene Johnson who holds a degree in psychology. She started the programme in April as a sales consultant and has since risen to the role of Team Leader. In her new position, she is responsible for guiding, managing and supporting her team to meet their goals.

Nomsa Mkhize, fresh out of high school, also celebrated a proud milestone. She not only graduated from the programme but also secured a permanent position with Amalfi BPO. She began her journey as a helpdesk support agent for a Canadian internet service provider. Her achievement stands as a testament that determination coupled with opportunities made available through the WRP, can lead to success.

Elation as 20 flood-displaced families receive new homes

 

SIMPHIWE DLAMINI

TEARS of joy flowed when 66-year-old pensioner Bhekile Mlambo received the keys to her brand-new home from the Minister of Human Settlements Thembi Simelane, MEC of Human Settlements Siboniso Duma and eThekwini Speaker Councillor Thabani Nyawose.

Mlambo was among 20 families who officially took occupation of permanent houses in the Illovo Housing Project during a house handover ceremony in Illovo, South of Durban recently. All the beneficiaries were displaced during the 2022 flood disasters, which left hundreds of people homeless across KwaZulu-Natal. The Illovo Housing Project, with an allocated budget of R9 million, has seen R2 million spent on 13 units. A total of 37 sites have been earmarked for development.

The house handover also signaled the closure of the Adams and Ilfracombe Transitional Emergency Accommodation, where these families had been living since the floods displaced them.

Minister Simelane said the project marks a turning point in government’s commitment to restore dignity to affected families. ‘’This project is important as the beneficiaries come from a place of devastation and deep pain. Through collaborative work with councillors, community leaders, and officials, we ensured that beneficiaries from the disaster, as well as local housing applicants from Illovo, were accommodated fairly in line with our housing allocation system,’’ said Minister Simelane. She further explained that the Illovo initiative forms part of a broader human settlements programme responding to the 2022 floods, with a total of 1 140 permanent houses under construction across eThekwini.

The remaining families will be housed at the Montclair Lodge and Cornubia Temporary Residential Units between December 2025 and January 2026, while awaiting completion of their permanent homes by June 2027. Minister Simelane emphasised that the Department is working to close temporary shelters. ‘’The tears of relief we witnessed today are a reminder that government must accelerate delivery,’’ she said.

KEY HOUSING INTERVENTIONS INCLUDE:

·         20 families now settled in permanent homes at Illovo (August 2025).

·         1 200 houses currently being built in Cornubia (construction commenced in August 2025).

·         113 families set to occupy their Cornubia homes by December 2025.

·         692 flood victims scheduled to receive homes in Cornubia by December 2026.

Africa's Travel Indaba Back in Durban for Next Five Years

 

By Fred Felton | Sep. 17, 2025

Durban has confirmed its status as Africa’s leading tourism destination by getting the green light to host Africa’s Travel Indaba for the next five years, starting in 2026.

Africa's Travel Indaba Back in Durban. 

Following a rigorous and competitive procurement process which was led by South African Tourism, Durban came out on top as the ideal location to showcase Africa’s vibrant tourism offerings.

This underscores the City’s status as a leading tourism destination, well known for its cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and world-class Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE) facilities. Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 is scheduled to take place from 11 to 14 May at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC).

Africa’s Travel Indaba is Africa’s largest and most influential tourism trade show, bringing together buyers, exhibitors, media, and tourism stakeholders from around the world. This event is a vital platform for promoting tourism trade and investment.

‘’We are proud to have Durban host Africa’s Travel Indaba in 2026. This event is more than just a showcase of tourism, it is an economic catalyst, a driver of job creation, and a strategic opportunity to position Africa as a premier travel destination on the global stage,’’ said Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille.

Durban is expected to generate substantial economic benefits for the region, including increased tourism spend, job creation and investment in local infrastructure and services when the event comes around next year.

The long-term economic benefits include increased tourism arrivals, enhanced global visibility, and the potential for Durban to attract film productions and international events, contributing to sustained economic growth.

‘’Hosting Africa’s Travel Indaba for the next five years is a tremendous opportunity for Durban to showcase its unique offerings and strengthen its position as Southern Africa’s tourism hub. We look forward to welcoming industry leaders from around the world and creating meaningful business opportunities for local entrepreneurs and stakeholders. We also want to extend our gratitude to Minister de Lille and the South African Tourism team for their ongoing commitment to supporting Durban and other host cities in delivering world-class, sustainable events that drive tourism growth across the continent,’’ noted eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba.

Partnership with Tourism Sector Reinforced by Mayor Xaba

 

By Fred Felton | Sep. 7, 2025

Durban’s tourism stakeholders expressed enthusiasm following a productive engagement session with eThekwini Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba and City leadership.

The Mayoral Tourism Trade Stakeholder Engagement Breakfast held earlier this week brought together trade, government, private sector, and community stakeholders to shape a vibrant, inclusive, and resilient tourism future. | Photo: Supplied. 

At a recent Mayoral Tourism Trade Stakeholder engagement held earlier this week at the Southern Sun Elangeni and Maharani Hotel, the Mayor met with over 90 representatives from a variety of tourism sectors in the tourism industry. This included businesses, private sector, associations, and key trade stakeholders.

The aim of the gathering was to discuss sector development, addressing existing challenges, promoting new programmes, and gathering valuable feedback. This engagement aimed to strengthen partnerships, engage on discussions of how to boost the local economy, create job opportunities, and enhance the tourist experience by fostering collaboration between private sector and the government.

Mayor Xaba delivering his keynote at the breakfast. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

Mayor Xaba noted that it was fitting that this engagement took place during Tourism Month, a period dedicated to highlighting the tourism sector’s vital role in the economy of South Africa.

‘’The engagement, themed: ‘Collectively taking Durban tourism to greater heights,’ is a call for us all to strengthen the partnerships that exist between government and the private sector, with the ultimate goal of unlocking growth opportunities within our tourism ecosystem,’’ said Mayor Xaba.

Stakeholders were assured by Mayor Xaba that the City leadership remains committed to working collaboratively with the sector to develop a comprehensive roadmap that promotes a tourism industry capable of creating jobs, empowering communities, and benefiting residents.

The eThekwini City Manager Musa Mbhele also made some major announcements, including:

Tourist Safety Tech Boost – This is a new mobile app that will soon connect and activate security establishments within a 500-metre radius, providing tourists with peace of mind during their Durban visit.

Sports Tourism Drive – The City is in talks with COSAFA Games and the American Homecoming Programme to host activities during an entire month of the tournament, positioning Durban as a premier sports tourism hub.

Expanding Connectivity – Durban is looking at plans for a second airport on the South Coast, aiming to significantly improve access and foster regional tourism growth.

Durban has also launched South Africa’s first dedicated Coastal and Tourism Policing Unit, responsible for the patrolling of 100 km of coastline. This pioneering initiative forms part of a broader safety strategy to ensure residents and visitors enjoy safe beaches. The goal is to sustain and strengthen this unit, setting a national benchmark for beach and tourism safety.

‘’International arrivals increased to 186 000 between January and May this year, while domestic tourists rose to 2.8 million, compared to the same period last year. These numbers reaffirm Durban’s status as a compelling destination for both domestic and international travellers, thanks to our unique blend of nature, culture and history,’’ said Mbhele.

He also highlighted successful collaborative projects that have already begun to shape Durban’s future, including the Beachwood Development, Sibaya Precinct, and Oceans South Residential Tower, which hold immense potential to attract visitors and investments.

‘’The regeneration of Durban’s Inner City is gaining momentum with 47 of 120 derelict buildings already addressed,’’ added Mbhele.

Stakeholders also applauded the efforts of the Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG), established in April 2024. The PeWG’s mission is to tackle critical challenges faced by the Municipality.

‘’It’s about working together to promote Durban as a destination of choice and to develop it sustainably,’’ said Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Themo Ntuli.

Mbhele also urged stakeholders to participate in the upcoming reSURGEnce Conference, scheduled to take place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, from 20 to 24 September 2025. He noted that tourism discussions will be central to the event, which will host over 150 delegates from various countries, including key participants from the United States.

Samantha Croft, Chairperson of the Tourism Committee Group for the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Operations Director for the KwaZulu-Natal Region of the Southern Sun hotel group, said the engagement with the Mayor was highly informative, it provided a platform for trade to engage directly with the City.

ECD training to transform communities

 

ECD training to transform communities 

SANE SHANDU

ETHEKWINI Municipality has launched a transformative Early Childhood Development (ECD) initiative that is already changing lives across disadvantaged communities and informal settlements.

The eThekwini Municipal Academy (EMA) has introduced a comprehensive one-year NQF Level 4 training programme for over 50 ECD practitioners.

These practitioners are being equipped to nurture holistic child development including the cognitive, emotional, social, and physical aspects, ensuring that children are not only school-ready but life-ready.

They are also trained to identify developmental delays early, enabling timely interventions that can alter a child’s entire trajectory.

The initiative is being held in partnership with the Human Settlements and Safer Cities Directorates. While EMA is capacitating them with skills, Human Settlements is investing in infrastructure by upgrading ECD centres.

This integrated programme intends to improve learning environments and create safe, stimulating spaces where children can thrive.

EMA Project Manager Lihle Sishi described this initiative as a commitment to breaking cyles of socio-economic challenges, unemployment and inequality. ‘’By empowering ECD practitioners with the right tools and knowledge, we are ensuring that every child, regardless of where they come from, has a fair chance at a better life, starting from a young age,’’ she said.

The initiative is already making a visible impact in communities.

Children who once roamed the streets are now engaged in structured learning. Parents are seeing the benefits of early education, and communities are beginning to rally around the centres as hubs of growth and safety.

Metro Police bolster their force with 65 new Constables

 

Metro Police bolster their force with 65 new Constables

VUYANI DIMBA

The Metro Police has welcomed 65 new Constables, bolstering their force to ensure they can execute their mandate of traffic policing, by-law enforcement, crime prevention, and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of residents and visitors.

The new recruits, who bring with them a wealth of experience come from various law enforcement institutions outside the Municipality.

Metro Police Deputy Director Commissioner Winnie Zama said continuous innovative crime prevention strategies continue to be implemented throughout the City, among them bolstering the Metro Police force.

‘’As we celebrate these appointments, it is imperative that we instil a culture of discipline, integrity, and excellence. The City pride itself on fast-tracking service delivery through the safety and wellbeing of residents,’’ said Zama.

She attributed the recent employment of the Colonels as the ‘’brainchild of Director Commissioner Sibonelo Mchunu who has emphasised the importance of employment creation’’.

‘’We are gaining ground as law enforcement as we hire both new and experienced officials. We want our presence to be felt as the Metro Police throughout the City as we work to curb crime,’’ said Zama.

Zamashuku Shangase said he is pleased to with the appointment. ‘’This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity which will help bring about positive change. It is also an opportunity for growth and to make a difference in peoples lives.’’

Shangase previously served as an Acting Captain for the Metro Police and praised the major strides taken by the Metro Police to bolster its workforce.

Jubilation as community attends Tshelimnyama bridge handover

 

Jubilation as community attends Tshelimnyama bridge handover

ZIMBILI MAZIBUKO

There were tears of joy and jubilation from the community of Tshelimnyama in Ward 15 when eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba officially handed over the newly upgraded Tshelimnyama bridge.

The handover brought much-needed relief to an area long affected by infrastructure challenges and flood risks. The devastating floods of 2019 and 2022 exposed the inadequacy of the old bridge, which was often submerged and rendered impassable, putting lives and livelihoods at risk. On 18 July, the community came out in their numbers to witness the occasion, which was a celebration and a beacon of hope for the community.

Addressing the community, Mayor Xaba said the bridge is a symbol of progress, resilience and hope. ‘’It gives me great pleasure to spend my 67 minutes on Nelson Mandela International Day in Tshelimnyama, officially handing over this newly constructed bridge. This is your bridge, built for you, with your future in mind. Let us protect it and ensure it serves x generations to come,’’ he said.

Valued at R20 million, the new 20-metre bridge features a modern, climate-resilient design aimed at ensuring year-round accessibility and improved safety for both motorists and pedestrians.

It is a key part of eThekwini’s climate adaptation and infrastructure renewal strategy. Tshelimnyama resident, Dumisani Kumalo could not contain his joy, saying the floods left pain and sorrow in the community.

‘’We don’t have to worry about our safety during heavy rains. The bridge is beautiful and strong,’’ said Kumalo.

Mayor Xaba highlighted the importance of community involvement in the success of the project and requested the community to look after it and protect it from vandalism. Job opportunities were also created during the project as 20 residents were employed during construction, gaining valuable skills in trades such as concrete work and bricklaying.

The Mayor also commended the local taxi industry and residents for their cooperation in ensuring the project proceeded without disruption.

August Specials at uShaka Marine World

 

By Fred Felton | Aug. 12, 2025

If you visit uShaka Marine World during August 2025 you will be able take advantage of promotional offerings to experience the park at a big discount.

The Phantom Ship. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

During this time guests can enjoy a full day of fun and entertainment for R195 per person, valid Wednesday to Sunday. The single ticket grants access to four of the park’s big attractions which are:

§  Sea World – explore the ‘Phantom Ship’

§  Wet ‘n Wild – with a 450-metre Duzi Adventure River

§  Dangerous Creatures – see the ‘fearsome’ creatures

§  Kids World – with Africa’s biggest jungle gym

Visitors can also enjoy a reduced rate of R99 per person on Mondays and Tuesdays. This single ticket offers access to two of the attractions namely:

§  Sea World

§  Dangerous Creatures

These discounted rates aims to offer everyone a chance to enjoy the wide range of experiences at uShaka Marine World while also saving some money.

‘’We are the number one tourism place to go to in Durban,’’ said Ndabo Khoza, uShaka Marine World CEO.

So whether you are looking for a relaxed midweek visit or action-packed weekend with the family or friends, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at uShaka Marine World.

For more information visit: www.ushakamarine.com or call 031 328 8000

Ts and Cs apply.

Kings Park Swimming Pool Upgrade Going Well

 

By Fred Felton | Aug. 3, 2025

The City’s Kings Park Swimming Pool is getting an upgrade to the value of R42 million and the upgrade is progressing well.

Kings Park Swimming Pool is getting an upgrade. Photo: Supplied. 

The media were taken on a walkabout around the pool area on 25 July to show them how the upgrade was going and assess the progress made so far.

According to Acting Director of the Recreation and Parks Directorate Dr Zakhi Mkhize the emergency phase of the revamp is complete. This included work on deteriorated concrete columns and the roof structure works.

‘’We are now entering the phase of the project focusing on the facelift of the swimming pool to improve its efficiency and productivity as well as to ensure an aesthetically pleasing appearance,’’ noted Dr Zakhi Mkzhize.

The upgrade of the swimming pool is expected to be complete by July 2026.

Mkhize mentioned that the Kings Park Swimming Pool is one of the country’s premier aquatic venues and the only swimming facility in South Africa that has World Aquatics status, which is recognised by the International Olympic Committee for administering water competitions.

The upgrade is being done in two phases. Photo: Fred Felton. 

The Kings Park swimming complex has both indoor and outdoor facilities.

The indoor facility comprises of a 50-metre swimming pool while the outdoor facility has a diving pool that is 25 metres in length and is 6.5 metres deep.

This revamp is part of the City’s maintenance programme for all its swimming venues.

EThekwini intensifies rabies awareness following death in Ezimbokodweni area

 

EThekwini intensifies rabies awareness following death in Ezimbokodweni area 

ZIMBILI MAZIBUKO

ETHEKWINI Municipality is intensifying its efforts to curb the spread of rabies and prevent further loss of life following the death of a man after being bitten by his dog in the eZimbokodweni area.

EThekwini intensifies rabies awareness. Photo: Supplied. 

The dog, which was unvaccinated, showed rabies symptoms which included changed behaviour and aggressiveness. The City’s Communicable Diseases Coordinator Thokozile Ngcobo said: “Our investigations discovered that the man was bitten by the dog in March and did not seek medical attention.

He only went to the clinic in May. He couldn’t be assisted as the poison had spread to his body and he died.” This case is similar to another incident in the Ngonyameni area last year, where a three-year-old child died after coming into contact with a dog suspected to have had rabies.

Rabies is a viral zoonotic disease transmitted through the saliva of infected mammals, including dogs, cats, mongooses, goats, cattle, and other mammals. It is preventable through vaccination, yet fatal once the virus reaches the central nervous system.

Rabies in humans can present with symptoms such as headaches, fever, mental confusion, and muscle pain, among others. Immediate action, such as thoroughly washing any bite wound with running water and seeking prompt medical attention for a rabies vaccination, are crucial no matter how small the wound may seem.

An infected animal licking or scratching a person also needs to be reported as it can also transmit the disease. The City’s Communicable Diseases team is working closely with the KwaZuluNatal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to curb the spread of rabies. Vaccination campaigns will be conducted around the City.

For more information on these campaigns, the public can contact the eThekwini State Vet Office on 031 328 9300.

R67 Million Boost For Hostels

 

R67 Million Boost For Hostels

SIMPHIWE DLAMINI

ETHEKWINI Municipality has earmarked a substantial R67 million in the 2025/26 financial year for the continued rehabilitation of the Wema Community Residential Unit (CRU), formerly known as the SJ Smith Hostel as well as the nearby Jacobs CRU.

This allocation demonstrates the City’s commitment to transforming historic migrant worker hostels into modern, dignified living spaces. Originally constructed in the 1950s to house migrant labourers supporting Durban’s industrial boom, the Wema and Jacobs CRUs have long stood as a symbol of the City’s economic history.

Today, they are at the heart of the Municipality’s sweeping urban renewal initiative aimed at improving the quality of life for thousands of residents. The refurbishment project, led by the City’s Human Settlements Directorate has already made significant progress.

Director of the Human Settlements Directorate Lawrence Pato said 23 new blocks, ranging from Block R to Block AO, have been added to the Wema CRU, while existing structures Blocks D, E, and J have undergone major upgrades.

“Block F has been demolished to make way for 80 new units, and tenders are currently underway for the redevelopment of Blocks C and G. This large-scale overhaul represents a significant investment in the wellbeing of CRU residents. The R67 million budget allocation will ensure that we continue to move beyond providing shelter, toward creating safe, stable, and hospitable communities,” said Pato.

The transformation is not only physical. Community initiatives like the Wema CRU Netball Club are helping to foster a renewed sense of belonging and engagement.

Themba Mvubu, Chairperson of the Human Settlements, Engineering, and eThekwini Transport Authority Committee has welcomed this broader vision. “By acknowledging the historical significance of these sites while boldly implementing modern upgrades, the Municipality is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. With the new budget in place, the Wema and Jacobs CRUs are set to become flagship examples of how government can drive meaningful urban renewal and social upliftment,” said Councillor Mvubu.

 

City welcomes R23 billion expansion at Sibaya

SOHANA SINGH

ETHEKWINI Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba has welcomed the R23 billion expansion of the Sibaya Coastal Precinct, as property developers Devmco, officially broke ground on its expansive infrastructure rollout across the precinct.

This marked a significant achievement as the development moves towards interconnected nodes within the precinct. The next phase of the mixed-use development will include 400 residential units, 100 000 square meters of retail and office space, a medical node, and flagship hospitality developments spanning over 1000 hectares among others. This will make it integrated, and sustainable, with lifestyle and convenience at the centre.

The event on 19 June was attended by the KwaZuluNatal Premier Thami Ntuli, MEC for Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs Reverend Musa Zondi, i Mayor Xaba, and other key business stakeholders.

Mayor Xaba said: “The Sibaya Coastal Precinct marks a defining chapter in the growth and transformation of our City. It is the strong partnership between Devmco and eThekwini Municipality that has ensured that this development progresses to what we see today,” he said, highlighting the developers confidence in the City. With a projected investment value of R23 billion and an estimated R3.8 billion in revenue from property rates over an eight-year period, this development promises to be an economic game-changer.

“We are confident that there will be transformation benefits for the people of Wards 58 and 102, and the broader eThekwini community,” he added. Since its inception, Sibaya has been a symbol of success. In 2018, it achieved the highest value in property transfers in the country.

Just in the past 18 months alone, over R1.5 billion in property transfers were recorded, a clear signal of investor confidence and sustained demand in the precinct. Mayor Xaba highlighted that as government, at all levels, they are playing their role in enabling critical road infrastructure upgrades in the precinct.

The socio-economic returns of the development include an expected growth from R219 million to R770 million annually in rates revenue for the Municipality from 2025 to 2032.

Another benefit is that 20 000 permanent jobs and 50 000 temporary jobs will be created during and after construction. The empowerment of local communities through targeted procurement, training, and employment is already in motion through the Inkanyiso Programme. This includes opportunities for small and emerging businesses, especially youthowned enterprises.

Brad Winstanley, Commercial Director at Devmco Group, said the event marks the beginning of a new era in integrated coastal living, signalling the start of the precinct’s infrastructure phase.

Breaking the Silence on Men's Mental Health

 

By Fred Felton | July 17, 2025

John Craig, in partnership with Polo South Africa, has launched the Mind Matters video series, featuring iconic footballer Lucas Radebe, Leon de Beer (Director of the South African Federation for Mental Health), and designer David Tshabalala.

The Mind Matters Video Series 

The campaign shines a light on some sobering stats:

South Africa records around 13,774 suicides per year, about 80% of which are men.

Worldwide 75% of suicides are men, many of whom never seek help due to stigma and traditional gender norms.

According to a review in the SA Journal of Psychology men across occupations experience high levels of depression, anxiety and burnout, often quietly.

‘’Mental and emotional resilience is key to unlocking one’s true potential. With this initiative, John Craig and Polo South Africa are shining a light on the mental health struggles men face worldwide, especially as issues like depression, anxiety and suicide continue to rise among men,’’ said John Craig Senior Brand Manager, Kaboomo Mgibi Marshoff.

Leon de Beer called for workplaces and communities to create safe spaces where men can freely express emotional struggles without fear of judgement.

‘’My wife was diagnosed with cancer when I was still playing. I still had to focus. I still had to go and train every day and give 100%, which is challenging because you can’t share with friends. There are no excuses,’’ noted Lucas Radebe.

For David Tshabalala maintaining a healthy work life balance is key to nurturing good mental health.

Marshoff invited men everywhere to watch the full series on the @JohnCraig YouTube channel and to join the conversation using #JohnCraigMindMatters.

The good folks at John Craig are also giving away 2 x R500 John Craig Vouchers for you dear reader.

To enter the lucky draw, send your full name, cell number and email to umhlangalife@gmail.com  with John Craig Giveaway in the subject line.

Ts and Cs apply.

Durban FilmMart Champions South African Cinema This Year

 

By Fred Felton | July 12, 2025

The 2025 Durban FilmMart (DFM) edition is reaffirming its position as a leading platform for African and global film collaboration by shining the spotlight on South African cinema through its ‘SA in Focus’ programme.

The South African cinema will take centre stage at this year's Durban FilmMart edition, with industry leaders unpacking the state of the country's current audio visual sector. 

DFM takes place from 18 to 21 July at Durban’s Elangeni Hotel; the programme will bring together industry leaders, guilds and creatives to examine the current state and future of South Africa’s audio-visual sector.

‘’The SA in Focus programme aims to build a strong local foundation that is essential for the broader growth of Africa’s film industry,’’ said DFM Institute Director Magdalene Reddy.

Highlights in the programme include the flagship State of the South African Audio-Visual Industry session, featuring key stakeholders such as the National Film and Video Foundation, SABC, and various provincial commissions. The programme will also explore topics such as artificial intelligence’s creative influence, copyright in the digital age, and strategies for international co-productions.

There will also be panel discussions hosted by major guilds, including the South African Guild of Actors, the Writers’ Guild of South Africa, the Directors Guild of South Africa, and the Editors Guild, will address critical issues such as storytelling, sustainability, and creative ownership.

Other sessions to look out for include The African Aesthetic, Directors as Cultural Architects, and Independent Producers Organisation to Intellectual Property on global market access.

DFM 2025 will focus on collaboration and professional development underscoring its continued role in shaping a thriving and future-ready SA film industry.

Register now for DFM 2025 at: www.durbanfilmmart.co.za

For enquiries: info@durbanfilmmart.com

The Durban FilmMart Institute receives principal funding from the Durban Film Office and eThekwini Municipality.