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.

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.

Why it is best to 'pay yourself first'

 

Every July, we are reminded of the importance of saving during Savings Month. Yet few of us manage to fix our lack of savings. That’s why Smart About Money, an initiative by the Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (ASISA), is campaigning for you to #PayYourselfFirst.

Pay yourself first is a budgeting technique that ensures you allocate a fixed amount to savings each payday before you spend on anything else. Establishing this habit will help you be disciplined and achieve your financial goals.

Start by working out what you spend on essentials, such as accommodation, transport, electricity and groceries. Then set a realistic amount within what is left of your income that you can save every month.

If you leave saving until the end of the month, you will be tempted to spend on non-essentials, such as clothing, entertainment or eating out. You will then convince yourself that you have no money left to save.

If you pay yourself first, your savings are transferred from your account as soon as you are paid. Soon, your contribution will feel like your other deductions or debit orders, and you will learn to live without this money.

Pay yourself first

The key to paying yourself first is to set up a separate savings account or investment, such as a unit trust or exchange-traded fund (ETF), and automate a transfer or payment to that account on the day you are paid.

For emergency savings or short-term goals like a holiday or renovations, choose a savings account with a fixed term aligned to your saving horizon.

For medium- to long-term savings, consider a unit trust or ETF with potentially higher returns.

Giving your savings goal a name, targeting an amount and working out how long you need to reach it, will discourage you from raiding your savings.  Use tools like the Smart About Money Savings Goal Calculator to determine how much you need to save each month.

Even if your initial savings are small, being aware of your goal should prevent impulse spending and motivate you to increase your savings amount when your earnings improve or your expenses reduce.

Setting goals

You can start small with just one goal, but over time, you could set up several savings and investment accounts tailored to different goals' timelines.

·         An emergency fund

Start with an emergency fund. An emergency fund helps you to stick to your budget and not raid your savings when financial emergencies, such as injury or illness, home or car repairs, arise.

·         A short-term goal

A short-term goal takes between a year and three years to reach and provides for expenses such as an appliance, a mini-holiday, a wedding or December expenses.

·         A medium-term goal

Save for bigger things, such as an overseas holiday, a wedding, a deposit on a house or a car over three to ten years.

·         A long-term goal

Save for more than 10 years for bigger goals, such as your retirement or your children’s tertiary education. Use the Smart About Money Retirement Savings calculator to work out how much you need to save, and consider a retirement annuity if your employer does not have a fund or you need to supplement your savings.

·         If you are in debt

If you have costly short-term debt, start to pay yourself first by paying down your debts and reducing the interest that is compounding against you. Paying more than the minimum repayment and using the avalanche or snowball method will pay off your debt faster. Avoid new debt by providing for financial emergencies.

Start small

Start small if you need to and build your savings habit. Even modest savings compound over time, and the more you avoid debt, the more you will be able to save.  

Remember:

Saving for a goal helps you in two ways:

·         You spend less on your goal than you would if you used credit that costs you interest.

·         Your savings earn interest that reduces the amount you need to save.

Saving in a retirement fund can also save you tax, which can be used to boost your savings.

If you want to know more about these, or any other personal finance topics, please visit Smart About Money. This free-to-use consumer financial education website is an Association of Savings and Investments South Africa (ASISA) initiative. It can guide you to better money management at any stage of life, from starting your first job, through family life, retirement and beyond.

Top 5 Highlights from Africa's Travel Indaba 2025

 

By Fred Felton | Apr. 16, 2025

Africa’s Travel Indaba has just wrapped up in Durban and there have been some wonderful highlights during the show.

Here are just some of them:

BONDay (Business Opportunity Networking Day)

The day which was hosted by South African Tourism set the tone for the week ahead and was filled with strategic dialogue, future-forward thinking, and lots of networking.

‘’BONDay is where Africa’s tourism thinkers meet its doers. It’s a place to connect, collaborate and co-create the future of tourism on our continent,’’ said Darryl Erasmus Chief Operations Officer at South African Tourism.

Opening Day

Bell ringing ceremony for the official opening of Africa's Travel Indaba 2025. | Photo: South African Tourism. 

Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025, the premier travel and tourism trade show on the African continent, opened on Wednesday, 14^th May 2025 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. Under the theme ‘’Unlimited Africa’’, the event was officially opened by South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile and South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille.

Over 1,300 exhibitors from 27 African nations, including for the first time participants from Chad, St Helena, and Burkina Faso met with more than 1,200 international buyers from 55 source markets at the event in Durban.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile delivered the opening address and he was joined on stage by South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille; Mayor of eThekwini Municipality, Councillor Cyril Xaba; KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Reverend Musa Zondi; and Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Arthur Thamsanqa Ntuli.

‘’This is an Africa where intra-continental trade, investment, and tourism are no longer mere aspirations but rather everyday realities. Tourism is a significant economic engine, a catalyst for social change, and a cornerstone of inclusive growth. Let us demonstrate to the world that Africa is ready for business. With these words, I would like to officially declare the Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 open!’’

The Deputy President also highlighted that travel and tourism contributed 6.8% to Africa’s GDP in 2023, with projections indicating a rise to 10.4% by 2030. He also noted that South Africa’s G20 Presidency, with over 200 related meetings hosted, is a prime opportunity to spotlight African perspectives on global economic and development issues.

‘’Africa’s Travel Indaba is a catalyst for inclusive growth, job creation, and sustainable development, not only in South Africa but throughout Africa. Tourism remains a powerful economic driver,’’ said South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille.

The welcoming ceremony finished with the traditional ringing of the bell, a symbolic gesture that resonated through the halls of the Inkosi Albert Luthuli ICC, officially marking the start of business and three days of intensive networking, deal-making, and showcasing the very best of ‘’Unlimited Africa’’.

Events

Africa's Travel Indaba 2025 African Tourism Ministers' Roundtable. | Photo: South African Tourism.

Tourism leaders convened for the much anticipated African Ministers’ Roundtable at Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025. This event was hosted by South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, the panel featured a distinguished lineup including Márcio de Jesus Lopes Daniel, Angola’s Minister of Tourism; Sikhumbuzo Dlamini, Eswatini’s Minister Tinkhundla Administration and Development; Fredson Bacar, Mozambique’s Secretary of State of Tourism; and Rodney Sikumba, Zambia’s Minister of Tourism.

The spirit of collaboration was a common theme at the roundtable. ‘’We are not here to compete, we are here to collaborate,’’ remarked Minister Sikhumbuzo Dlamini of Eswatini.

There was a call for a united Africa.

‘’As African tourism ministers, we have a singular resolve to work as a team, there must be cohesion and strength in numbers. We’ve also expanded Zambia’s visa-free access from 42 to 167 countries and believe it’s time to open the skies so people can travel more freely across the continent,’’ noted Zambia’s Minister of Tourism, Rodney Sikumba.

Fredson Bacar, Mozambique’s Secretary of State for Tourism, reinforced the importance of regional partnerships, citing the ZIMOZA Transfrontier Park, a collaboration between Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Zambia.

Angola’s Minister of Tourism, Márcio de Jesus Lopes Daniel called for the implementation of long discussed programmes like the open skies policy and free visa policies.

Minister de Lille confirmed that pressure is being applied through the African Union and the African Continental Free Trade Agreement to open the skies.

Africa’s Travel Indaba proved that it is more than just a trade show; it is an incubator of ideas, crucial for partnerships and a powerful symbol of Africa’s commitment to shaping its own tomorrow, through connections today.

Elsewhere at Africa’s Travel Indaba the eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba welcomed Africa’s Travel Indaba at the Durban-KZN Business Breakfast.

The eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba delivering a keynote at the Durban-KZN Business Breakfast at Africa's Travel Indaba 2025. | Photo: Supplied. 

The breakfast was a pivotal engagement to connect, reflect and chart the course forward with key stakeholders.

‘’This gathering is far more than a mere discussion forum – it serves as the driving force behind Africa’s tourism aspirations. It is a dynamic continental platform that stimulates investment, facilitates trade opportunities, and highlights the rich diversity and excellence of African destinations. This year we seek to position our city not just as a destination – but as a dynamic, investable ecosystem where culture, commerce, and community converge,’’ said eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba.

Speed Marketing

Africa’s Travel Indaba also provides a wonderful platform for tourism products to market their business to a host of buyers at various Speed Marketing sessions which are held over 3 days. The product representative had 4 minutes to pitch their business before a loud noise signalled for them to leave the stage.

At Africa's Travel Indaba there was plenty of music to entertain delegates. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

Products included St Francis Tourism which has a Calamari festival, uShaka Marine World Theme Park which has a Village Walk shopping centre, Aquarium and Wet n’ Wild with a DJ. Other highlights included Timamoon Lodge which features 7 magnificent villas, a hidden gem;  Goldfields Game Ranch have guides than can speak Mandarin to cater for Chinese tourists.

The Stats

The wrap-up media conference at the end of Africa's Travel Indaba 2025. | Photo: South African Tourism.

At the wrap-up media conference at the end of Africa’s Travel Indaba, Thembisile Sehlolo, Chief Marketing Officer of South African Tourism, together with Sibusiso Gumbi, Acting Chief Executive Officer of KwaZulu-Natal Tourism & Film Authority; Winile Mntungwa, Deputy Head of Durban Tourism and Sandile Makhanya, Acting Marketing & Communications Executive of Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC), addressed the media.

‘’We are exceptionally proud to have once again delivered the premier showcase of the African continent’s diverse tourism products and experiences,’’ said Sehlolo.

Mntungwa said:  ‘’The economic ripple effect was felt far beyond the city centre, benefitting township and rural tourism enterprises – both formal & informal.’’

‘’I am pleased to say that KwaZulu-Natal has hosted another very successful Africa’s Travel Indaba with a record number of delegates, international buyers and airlines attending this year,’’ noted Gumbi.

The KwaZulu-Natal Tourism & Film Authority also signed MOUs with eSwatini Tourism and Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier conservation Area Joint Marketing Agreement.

Current figures (still to be audited) indicate that Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 hosted more than 9,990 attendees, marking an impressive 7.7% increase compared to 9,280 delegates that attended in 2024 with over 24 500 quality meetings held. The event attracted 1,348 exhibitors and 1037 buyers, with both exhibitors and international buyer numbers being the highest recorded in the past four years. A total of 27 African countries participated, including newcomers Chad, St Helena and Burkina Faso.

Makhanya at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre noted that ‘’Africa’s Travel Indaba is undeniably our premier event. As the ICC, we are deeply committed to ensuring that this trade event showcases Africa to the world and contributes significantly and sustainably to our local economy.’’

For more information visit: www.indaba-southafrica.co.za

Almost Time for Africa's Travel Indaba

 

By Fred Felton | May 6, 2025

The media launch for the much anticipated Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 was recently held at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. This event was led by the Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, senior representatives from the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government and Tourism Authority, South African Tourism and key stakeholders.

Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille speaking at the media launch for Africa's Travel Indaba 2025.  Photo: Fiona Wainwright. 

The theme for Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 is ‘’Unlimited Africa,’’ which is a bold declaration of the continent’s spirit and ambition. Minister de Lille delivered her keynote describing Indaba as: ‘’Not just a trade show – it is a platform to reshape narratives, forge powerful connections, and unlock shared value across our continent.’’

Africa’s Travel Indaba is the perfect place for buyers where they can discover and source a wide range of African tourism products and experiences. There will be 297 unique offerings, 1 200 exhibitors from across 26 African countries and 908 vetted international buyers representing 55 global markets, this event is ideal for networking opportunities and meetings for B2B. Buyers gain access to curated, diverse, authentic and emerging travel products for their clients.

The exhibitors benefit from top exposure to global tourism decision-makers. The exhibition floor is sold-out and the Return on Investment (ROI) is high for launching new products, forming strategic partnerships and exploring new markets.

At Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024 there were over 24,000 business meetings that turned into deals and revenue. The platform also empowers SMMEs through mentorship, visibility and access to global buyers.

The travel and trade show is also a rich tapestry for media where they can find plenty of content for articles around travel, tourism and interview key stakeholders.

The economic impact of Indaba in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal is huge:

R226 million in direct economic activity generated in Durban in 2024, with an additional R333 million across the KZN province. More than 1 000 jobs created through the event. Empowerment of 120 tourism SMMEs to engage global buyers and media made possible through funding from Department of Tourism’s Market Access Support Programme.

‘’We are even more excited about this year’s Africa’s Travel Indaba as it comes soon after we launched our new Global Campaign: ‘South Africa Awaits – Come Find Your Joy!’ – a celebration of the country’s boundless energy, rich culture and extraordinary experiences,’’ said Minister de Lille at the media launch.

‘’After hosting Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) for more than 30 years, we are delighted to be the host province for ATI 2025. We remain hopeful to host the event for the next few decades and make KwaZulu-Natal Africa’s Travel Indaba’s permanent home,’’ noted KZN Tourism and Film Authority, Board Chairperson Dr Sibusiso Ndebele.

Highlights to look out for at ATI 2025 include:

BONDay (Business Opportunity Networking Day)

AI & Tech-Focused Sessions

Cross-Border Tourism Collaboration Forums

12 Independent Airlines & an Airline Pavilion.

‘’Durban stands ready to showcase our hospitality and commitment to excellence in the global tourism sector. Together, let us make this event a momentous occasion that reflects our pride and potential,’’ said Councillor Nkosenhle Madlala, Chairperson of Governance and Human Capital in the eThekwini Metro.

As the G20 Summit is being hosted in South Africa, ATI sets the stage for positioning the continent as a leading player in global tourism dialogue and hosting big events.

‘’Tourism is not a side act in our economic story – it is centre stage. We invite all delegates to come experience the might of the African continent’s tourism sector while enjoying South Africa’s hospitality in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa awaits - Come find your joy,’’ concluded Minister de Lille.

Inauguration Ceremony for Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Francis Petersen of University of Pretoria

 

By Fred Felton | Mar. 17, 2025

The Inauguration Ceremony for Professor Francis Petersen was held last week on Friday 14^th March, 2025. He was recently appointed as the Vice-Chancellor and Principal for the University of Pretoria.  

The Inauguration Ceremony was filled with music. | Photo: Fred Felton 

The ceremony itself was a glamorous affair as guests dressed up to attend this event. Professor Petersen is responsible for the management and administration of the University. He has a distinguished academic background and years of experience in higher education with a wide background in engineering, finance, and academic management.

He is highly educated with a Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) and a Master of Engineering (Metallurgical Engineering) from the University of Stellenbosch, as well as a PhD. in Engineering. He has also completed a course in Financial Skills for Executive Management from IIR Training.

Professor Petersen has held many academic positions at the University of Stellenbosch, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, University of Cape Town, and University of the Free State. His leadership roles included Head of Department, Dean and Deputy Vice-Chancellor. He has also contributed to industry and science councils including strategic leadership at Anglo American Platinum Limited, Mintek and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).

Professor Petersen has years of extensive leadership and academic experience that positions him perfectly to guide and uphold the University of Pretoria’s tradition of academic distinction while carving out new roads in research, teaching, and society engagement.

The theme for the Inauguration Ceremony was The Power of Possibility and the event was held at the Aula at the University of Pretoria. The ceremony began with a performance by the University of Pretoria Symphony Orchestra of: Andante Festivo by Jean Sibelius.

The University of Pretoria Youth Choir performed Hlonolofatsa: Traditional followed by the Academic Procession and the University of Pretoria Symphony Orchestra, University of Pretoria Youth Choir and UP Ovuwa Cultural Ensemble performing Gaudeamus igitur.

The Constitution of The Assembly and the Welcome were done by Chancellor Justice Sisi Khampepe.

There was a moment of silence and then the UP Ovuwa Cultural Ensemble performed I Will Rise by Chris Tomlin.

The Presentation of The Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Francis Petersen was done by the Chairperson of Council Mr Ben Kruger. Afterwards the University of Pretoria Symphony Orchestra performed Coriolan Overture by Ludwig van Beethoven.

The Investiture was done by Registrar Professor Caroline Nicholson. The Inauguration of the Vice-Chancellor and Principal was performed by Chancellor Justice Sisi Khampepe.

Justice Khampepe presents the VC with sheet music of the original piece played at his inauguration. | Photo: University of Pretoria. 

The University of Pretoria Symphony Orchestra, University of Pretoria Youth Choir and Ovuwa Cultural Ensemble performed The Power of Possibility by Atlegang Milanzi.

Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Francis Petersen then gave an Inaugural Address filled with positivity.

Prof Petersen delivering his inaugural address. | Photo: University of Pretoria. 

‘’I’m honoured to stand before you today as the 14^th Vice-Chancellor,’’ noted Professor Petersen.

He pledged to do his utmost to serve in this role at the University of Pretoria. His aim was to serve with dedication and passion.

‘’Our strength lies in working together to transform the future,’’ said Professor Petersen.

He also went on to say that, ‘’The University of Pretoria is its people.’’

‘’University of Pretoria is committed to developing people, creating knowledge and making a difference both locally and globally,’’ noted Professor Petersen.

He also acknowledged the various platforms offered at The University of Pretoria such as Future Africa, Innovation Africa, Engineering 4.0, The Javett-UP Art Centre and the recently announced The South African Centre for Industry and Technology which will be hosted at the University of Pretoria.

Professor Petersen also spoke of the ‘missing middle’ students whose families earn too much to qualify for financial assistance but not enough to cover the tuition fees and living expenses. ‘’In the light of this I was proud to announce the Vice-Chancellor and Principal’s Scholarship Fund last year.  The goal of this fund is to ensure that no student is denied the opportunity of studying at the University of Pretoria because of financial constraints,’’ said Professor Petersen.

‘’The aim is to position the University of Pretoria as a global intellectual leader on African matters, for Africa and the World,’’ emphasised Professor Petersen.

After his speech the UP Ovuwa Cultural Ensemble performed Botho: Traditional.

There were congratulations from various people including from the students. The Student Representative Council President Vhutshilo Muambadzi wished Professor Petersen well. ‘’An engineer never stops building,’’ noted Ms Muambadzi.

The National Anthem was performed by the University of Pretoria Symphony Orchestra, University of Pretoria Youth Choir and UP Ovuwa Cultural Ensemble.

The Dissolution of the Assembly was done by the Chancellor Justice Sisi Khampepe and the Academic Procession left the venue.

Thereafter University of Pretoria Symphony Orchestra, University of Pretoria Youth Choir and UP Ovuwa Cultural Ensemble performed Gaudeamus igitur.

All donations towards The Vice-Chancellor and Principal’s Scholarship Fund from South Africa, the USA and the UK are tax-deductible.

If you would like to donate to the fund or get more information on it email giving@up.ac.za

New Year New Fashion

 

By Fred Felton | Dec. 28, 2024

With the New Year just around the corner here are some fashion tips to get 2025 off on the right start for your fashion wardrobe.

For Him and Her

Building on the success of the partnership between ASICS and Kiko Kostadinov Studio, they will be resuming their curatorial series for Spring/Summer 2024. Look out for the UB10-S GEL-KAYANO™ 20 sneaker which draws inspiration from the themes of Interlaced Assemblages, Functional Utopias, and Mino Ceramics.

The ASICS UB10-S GEL-KAYANO 20 sneaker. | Photo: Supplied. 

The shoe features soft textures which are combined with the idea of handcrafted elements found in iconic artwork. The sneaker has a matte and washed colour appearance, which enhances the heritage running shoe’s archival shape and build. Contrasted with grid-like patterns and bold opaque colours, the Functional Utopia inspired variations apply direct correlations with nature.

The glossy primary colourways are offset with metallic structures that accentuate the double-layer mesh materialization.

The designers have also explored Mino ceramic influences by looking at the contemporary processes of the rust-like qualities that appear in Mino glazes. This process looks to imagery as a vessel with degraded colours that have the ability to stand the test of time.

The new UB10-S GEL-KAYANO™ 20 are available in a variety of colours which include Hunter Green/Jade and Glacier Grey/Lavender Grey and you can get them at Shelflife, Lemkus, Archive and Sneaker District and online at BASH.com

 

For Her

Jockey South Africa recently launched its Comfort Bra which has been thoughtfully designed to offer premium support and all-day comfort, this innovation redefines what it means to have a bra that fits perfectly every time.

The Jockey South Africa Comfort Bra. | Photo: Supplied. 

‘’We know that finding a bra that provides real support and all-day comfort is a challenge many women face. The Comfort Bra was created to meet these needs. By combining style, support, and comfort, it delivers a fit that feels as if it was made just for you. We are proud to offer a product that reflects our commitment to the needs of modern South African women,’’ said Nombuso Ncapai, Marketing Manager at Jockey South Africa.

The Comfort Bra features wide, cushioned shoulder straps that relieve pressure and prevent discomfort, even if you wear it for a long time. The adjustable 3-hook closure ensures a customised fit, allowing it to contour to your body for the best comfort and support.

This bra also features breathable mesh panels to promote airflow, keeping you cool and comfortable for the whole day. There are also back wings for a great look and support.

This is a wire-free bra with 3-piece cup design, the Comfort Bra offers superior support whether you work at home, or on the go, this is the bra for you.

‘’Our team has worked tirelessly to create a bra that delivers both comfort and performance. We believe that the Comfort Bra strikes the ideal balance between support and wearability, offering a versatile solution for women of all shapes and sizes,’’ added Bruce McMurray, General Manager at Jockey South Africa. 

The Comfort Bra is made from a blend of cotton and Lycra®, the bra has been locally designed for the South African market and is available in classic black and beige.

As part of its ongoing mission to support communities in need, Jockey South Africa recently donated 850 garments to the CANSA Mkhula Care Home in Durban, on Tuesday, 26^th November 2024. This donation reinforces Jockey’s dedication to acting as a responsible corporate citizen, striving to make a meaningful impact in SA one garment at a time.  

One of our female journalists tried the Comfort Bra on and found the bra to be a comfortable fit. Why not try it for yourself to see what you think of it.

The Comfort Bra is available at select retail outlets and online at www.jockey.co.za with delivery options across South Africa.

Tourism Minister and Deputy Minister Lead Summer Campaign Activation in Durban

 

By Fred Felton | Dec. 23, 2024

Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille and Deputy Minister, Maggie Sotyu visited various sites in the eThekwini Municipality as part of Summer Campaign activations on 18 December 2024.

Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille and a Tourism delegation thanking staff at the Elangeni Hotel for their hard work.  | Photo: Fred Felton. 

This visit formed part of the summer readiness activations and welcoming local and international tourists who will visit various holiday destinations across the country over the summer period.

As December marks the start of the peak tourism season for South Africa and Minister de Lille and Deputy Minister, Sotyu spent time at key tourist sites to engage in activities as part of the summer readiness campaign.

Minister de Lille and Deputy Minister Sotyu started the day at the Elangeni hotel on the Durban beachfront to thank the staff for their commitment and hard work in promoting and growing the tourism sector.

Next the Minister and Deputy Minister visited the beach front and joined the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) workers in a beach clean-up operation.

Minister of Tourism, Patrica de Lille and a tourism delegation joined the EPWP workers as part of her tour of Durban. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

After that the Minister addressed 50 senior citizens hosted by the Department of Tourism at the start of their Open Bus Tour to uShaka Marine World, joining tourism monitors on their patrol on the Durban beach front and ending with a senior citizens lunch at one of Durban’s beach front restaurants.

‘’As South Africa’s summer holiday season peaks and visitors venture out to explore our diverse travel offerings, we visited these sites to inspect summer readiness and to encourage visitors to explore the country responsibly. This roadshow is part of the broader objectives of the Tourism Sector Masterplan to promote tourist attractions and hidden gems in all our provinces,’’ said Minister de Lille.

The Department of Tourism is part of the Presidential eThekwini Working Group tasked with addressing various issues in eThekwini.

One of the workstreams of this group is the Tourism Revitalisation workstream where the Department of Tourism’s actions as part of the tourism revitalization work includes beach clean-ups and general clean up initiatives around the city.

‘’The clean-up programmes have been a resounding success, with over 800 participants mobilized to date. These participants include EPWP workers, tourism monitors, volunteers from government, local businesses, NGOs, and local communities, showcasing a collective commitment to revitalising eThekwini,’’ Minister de Lille said.

A total of 78 Tourism Monitors have been deployed to various sites in the eThekwini region to supplement police safety initiatives.

‘’The Tourism Monitors Programme is part of the National Tourism Safety Plan to enhance tourism safety awareness at key tourism sites: to upskill unemployed youth and to reduce tourist vulnerabilities,’’ Deputy Minister, Maggie Sotyu said.

Minister de Lille and Deputy Minister Sotyu also extended their best wishes to all visitors and South Africans for a safe and happy holiday season encouraging all travellers to be safe, take care on the roads and enjoy summer responsibly.

A Magical Season Awaits You in Durban

 

By Fred Felton | Dec. 9, 2024

The red carpet is being rolled out for tourists visiting Durban. The City aims to boost tourism and ensure a safer, more magical experience for everyone.

Durban is ready to welcome you! | Photo: Supplied. 

The eThekwini Municipality in collaboration with South African Tourism, the Provincial Tourism and Film Authority, and various private sector partners went on a roadshow around Durban on the ‘’Tourism Takes the Lead Roadshow,’’ on 4 December. This was done under the theme ‘’Exploring Durban’s Travel Adventures Together,’’ this highlighted Durban’s readiness for visitors during the summer and festive time.

EThekwini Municipality has worked to improve its attractions. The improvements include a more stable beach water quality, swimming pools that are fully operational, a safer city strategy and improved maintenance standards.

There is so much to do in Durban including a ride on the Rickshaw Bus, a visit to Mitchell Park, enjoying the party scene at Florida Road, Segway Rides along the promenade, Gondola Rides and Rickshaw rides.

Segway Rides. One of the many things to do in Durban. | Photo: Supplied. 

The Metro Police, along with law enforcement agencies, making sure of high visibility at key tourist hotspots. There will also be access-controlled roads, a free park-and-ride system, and 500 newly trained Metro Police officers are being deployed and 170 high performance vehicles will be patrolling Durban to make sure visitors are safe.

At present there are 21 immaculate beaches open and 30 public swimming pools open, eThekwini Municipality will also monitor water quality throughout the festive season, making sure visitors enjoy Durban’s pristine beaches.

The Cube on Innes Road, Morningside. Features panoramic views of Durban. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

Visitors can also look forward to many events this festive season including the Durban Jazz Festival and the eagerly awaited Fact Durban Rocks New Year’s Eve celebration. There is always a festive buzz in Umhlanga and Florida Road has entertainment day and night.

‘’Florida Road is one of our vibrant culinary experiences,’’ noted Durban Tourism Deputy Head, Winile Mntungwa.

There will also be an economic boost this summer season, with projections for 2024/2025 estimating over 1.3 million visitors, a 75% occupancy rate, R2.5 billion in direct spending, and R6.3 billion added to GDP – which translates to more than 11,000 new jobs.

A new attraction on the beachfront is the Durban Beach Café which was opened on 22 November this year.

The festivities continued this year when the MSC Euribia visited Durban recently which announced the start of the 2024/2025 cruise season. The MSC Musica also brought a wave of international visitors to Durban recently. ‘’We are excited to welcome thousands of international travellers to the City,’’ noted eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba.

For more info visit: www.visitdurban.travel or follow them on social media @DBNTourism