Refreshingly new #SuperSport Rugby Challenge to kick off in April

Sunday rugby, triple-headers, regional championships and a new competition name on the rugby calendar are all part of a major makeover for the opening provincial competition of the South African season.

The SuperSport Rugby Challenge will kick off on the weekend of April 22/23 and will feature the country's 14 provincial unions together with Namibia's Welwitschias in a refreshing 13-week tournament that is set to take rugby in a whole new direction.

Professional rugby will also make a starring appearance at well-known community rugby centres for televised rugby festivals.

Venues such as the Wolfson Stadium in Port Elizabeth, Bill Jardine Stadium in Johannesburg, and the venue of last year's club rugby Gold Cup final, Impala Rugby Club in Rustenburg, will host matches.

As part of the new look, the SuperSport Rugby Challenge will SuperStack matches with as many as three games hosted back-to-back at a single venue - one of which will be a local club rugby match.

The competition will also be divided into three regions - north, south and central - with local bragging rights up for grabs.

The tournament will comprise six-pool matches every weekend for 10 weeks, followed by seven knockout games. The 15 teams are divided into three geographical pools, with each playing home and away against the other four teams in their pool over the 10-week period.

The top two teams from each Pool, together with the two third-placed teams with the most log points, will qualify for the quarter-finals, which take place on Sunday, July 2, followed by the semi-finals a week later and the final on Sunday, July 16.

The SuperSport Rugby Challenge will be officially launched at Bill Jardine Stadium on Tuesday, April 11 when the full details and other innovations will be revealed.

The SuperSport Rugby Challenge Pools are:
• North: Blue Bulls, Golden Lions, Falcons, Pumas, Welwitschias
• Central: Free State Cheetahs, Griffons, Griquas, Leopards, Sharks XV
• South: Boland Cavaliers, Border Bulldogs, EP Kings, SWD Eagles, Western Province

Are you drinking too much? Signs that you are an alcoholic #ResponsibleDrinking

Drinking can be social but once you depend on it to function, it can be a bigger issue. Here are things to look out for to find out if you're an alcoholic.

According to Alcoholics Anonymous, alcoholism can be described as "an illness, which can never be cured but can be arrested. Many feel the illness represents the combination of physical sensitivity to alcohol and mental obsession, which regardless of consequences, cannot be broken by willpower alone."

These are questions to ask yourself that can reveal that you might need to evaluate your relationship with alcohol:

Have you ever decided to stop drinking for a week or so, but only lasted for a couple of days?
If you have considered cutting alcohol and tried to but have never managed to be able to abstain from drinking for long, then you're faced with a problem.

Do you wish people would mind their own business about your drinking?
If loved ones have commented about how much you drink or how they are concerned but you feel like they nosey and too involved, they actually might be on to something.

Has your drinking caused trouble at home?
You might drink because you're stressed about situations at home but it can only become worse. If your drinking is creating tension it can be sign of an illness.

Have you missed days of work or school because of drinking?
Have you called in "sick" because you were drunk or had a terrible hangover? It might be time to consider how much you drink.

Do you have "blackouts"?
If you drink so much that you can't remember what happened that could be a sign of alcoholism.

Have you ever felt that your life would be better if you did not drink?

Considering quitting could be sign you need that you actually should.

Contact National Alcoholics Anonymous helpline: 0861 HELP AA (435-722)

#Metro FM Awards yellow dress lady releases #Umzimba

American mega star Beyonce once said in her song Check On it, "If you got it, flaunt it" and that's exactly what we believe Free State born singer Skolopad was going for when she wore her revealing yellow dress on the Metro FM Awards black carpet this past weekend.

Social media went into frenzy when she walked the red carpet with many hurling insults at her but she wasn't even bothered. Skolopad went on to pull her dress to reveal a tattoo on her bum.

So why did Skolopad go to such extremes for attention? Well it seems it was all to promote her budding music career, ever since the red carpet incident she has been trending, and she is using the hype to get some traction for her music.

"Riky Rick said we must release out music on internet. I'm release #Umzimba today at 12:30. Support me guys," Skolopad tweeted yesterday.

Even though some people were unimpressed with her way of getting the attention, she is making sure she has the last laugh and benefiting from it.

© Drum

#RussianBear wants you to decide the lyrics to be on the next Limited Edition bottle

The time has come! Russian Bear has selected the top three lyricists in their #IamNext competition and are now calling on fans in SA to vote for the lyricist that they deem worthy of having his likeness featured on the next Limited Edition Russian Bear bottle along with his original lines.
 
Inspired by the iconic Limited Edition Russian Bear x Riky Rick bottle featuring the popular muso and his lyrics, budding hip hop lyricist across the country were given the chance to enter their attention-grabbing one-liners. Three aspiring music lovers are now one step closer to glory.
 
Ready to meet the front-runners?

 
Keagan Rhoda, AKA Spektak

"Seeking truth to my wishes. A man on a mission.
No matter what you do you'll never kill my ambition."
 
Hailing from the Western Cape, Keagan is ready to make his music dreams come true. He shares: "I've always wanted to be someone influential and I believe that by investing enough time and effort we will achieve our dreams. My peers would laugh at me and joke about the fact that I believed I could make a living and build a legacy through hip hop. So, my lyrics are basically me saying forget those people and their opinions, I'm GOING to make this work. No matter who says what, they'll never dull my shine."

Sicelo Ngozwana, AKA J. Retta

"No need for breaks, if you forever
on the gas pedal, Got Russian Bear
stacked at the party, and it's next level"

Eastern Cape based Sicelo aims to inspire and motivate others: "The lyrics I write stand out because they come from an honest place: My heart. I wanted to pen lyrics that are relevant to anyone chasing a dream. I'd like to believe that's everyone, because we all have our own individual purpose on Earth. The verse is fun to recite and catchy, while at the same time thought-provoking and relevant to anyone who trusts in themselves."

 
Moabi "Mo" Maseko
"Gone in 60secs 120 the max,
asenzi'mess, fasi'bande sigcwala istraat,
driver mina manje staan'vas, iyi'kleva
slyzer/#IAMNEXT skatlo'byzer"
 
Jo'burger Moabi wanted to convey speed and a sense of urgency with his unique lines that incorporate English, Afrikaans and "kasi taal" (street slang). "I needed my lyrics to be visual - so the reader imagines the seatbelt clicking and a car screeching off and the 'competition' swiftly moving out of the way. 'Driver mina manje' (I'm in the driver seat now) is a play on the concept of being next - stating that I'm next before even using the hashtag," he enthuses.

"We were blown away by the talent of the entries we have received and are excited about who will be featured next on the limited edition Russian Bear bottle.  Get voting, South Africa – tell us who you think is Next Level!" says Russian Bear Brand Manager, Simone Burns.
 
To vote for your favourite finalist in the Russian Bear #IamNext competition, visit www.russianbear.co.za , @RussianBearSA on Twitter and Facebook. Voting opens on 26 February.

Home remedies to revive your receding #hairline

A receding hairline is something no woman wants to see when they look in the mirror. Here are some helpful tips to revive your hairline.

Castor oil

Didn't we all hate this product growing up? Well it should be your hair's bestfriend now. Massaging this onto the hairline three times a week for three minutes a day will help stimulate growth to your hairline. Theres a variety to choose from: Jamaican and African black castor oil.

Aloe vera juice

You or your neighbor probably have this plant in your garden. Aloe is very good in repairing damaged hair. Mix it with plain yogurt and apply directly to your scalp, let it sit for atleast 30 minutes and rinse with warm water. Finish by washing your hair with your shampoo of choice.

Olive oil

Make sure that you use organic olive oil, use this as a hot hoil treatment by warming the oil in a bowl of warm water. Apply to your scalp and wrap your hair covering your hairline with a plastic and a warm towel. You can leave this in over night or for a couple of minutes, it will depend on the state of your hair.

Low manipulation hairstyles

There really is no point of using all these remedies if you keep on applying pressure to your hairline. Its very important that when you're doing a protective style you tell the hair dresser not to pull your edges, this will save you a lot of stress.

Breakthrough treatment for drug-resistant #TB

A simpler, more effective treatment for drug-resistant tuberculosis has been discovered. The treatment is said to work for those who are suffering from a strain of the illness that's resistant to two first-line drugs commonly used to treat TB and at least two second-line drugs.

Nix-TB was tested on 34 people in South Africa. The drug consists of three antibiotics that have never been combined before to treat the disease: bedaquiline, pretomanid and linezolid, according to online publication Science.

A report released in 2015 by the World Health Organisation (WHO) noted that there were about 480 000 new cases of multi-drug-resistant (MDR) TB and that 7 234 people were treated for extreme drug-resistance TB (XDR-TB).

Science says traditional treatment of  XDR-TB can take up to two-and-a-half years, often requires hospitalisation and includes painful injec­tions.

The 34 people given the new treatment were clear within six months. "The TB bacillus could not be cultured from anyone's sputum, a sign that they had cleared the infection," says Science.

South Africa has a higher-than-average incidence of TB occurrence. The South African National Tuberculosis Association says the country has the third highest rate if TB infection, after China and India.

XDR-TB is also on the increase in South Africa, according to WHO, which also says that people who are living with HIV are at greater risk.

"In places where XDR-TB strains circulate more frequently, people with HIV are more likely to be infected with XDR-TB than elsewhere."

Experts are unsure when the new treatment will be available as one of the antibiotics, pretomanid, still needs to be approved.

Source: Science

#Nokia 3310 relaunched with longer battery life

Nokia's 3310 phone has been relaunched nearly 17 years after its debut.
Many consider the original handset iconic because of its popularity and sturdiness. More than 126 million were produced before it was phased out in 2005.

The revamped version will be sold under licence by the Finnish start-up HMD Global, which also unveiled several Nokia-branded Android smartphones.

One expert said it was a "fantastic way" to relaunch Nokia's phone brand.

"The 3310 was the first mass-market mobile and there's a massive amount of nostalgia and affection for it," commented Ben Wood from the technology consultancy CCS Insight.

"If HMD had just announced three Android devices they would have barely got a couple of column inches in the press.

"So, the 3310 is a very clever move and we expect it will sell in significant volumes."

The announcement was made ahead of the start of the Mobile World Congress tech show in Barcelona. LG, Huawei and Lenovo are among others to have unveiled new devices.

Nokia no longer makes phones itself, but manufactures telecoms equipment, Ozo virtual reality cameras, and health kit under the Withings brand.

Long life

The new 3310 qualifies as a "feature phone" rather than a smartphone as it only provides limited internet facilities.

It relies on 2.5G connectivity - which has slower data speeds than 3G or 4G - and is powered by the S30+ operating system, which allows web browsing but has a much smaller range of apps than Android or iOS. Its single camera is also restricted to two megapixels.

However, its advantage over more powerful handsets is its battery life. HMD says the colour-screened phone has up to a month's standby time and delivers more than 22 hours of talk time.

It also comes with the modern version of the classic game Snake preinstalled.
Its launch price is €49 ($51,75; £41.51).

#Metro FM Awards 2017: Full list of winners

After weeks of budding excitement and much built up – South Africa has spoken. The 16th METRO FM Music Awards winners were unveiled last night.  The 16th Metro FM Music Awards where once again hosted by the Kwa-Zulu Natal Province in association with eThekwini Municipality. The awards where held on Saturday 25th February 2017 at the Inkosi Luthuli Convention Centre (ICC) in Durban, Kwa-Zulu Natal and were of course broadcast live on SABC1.

Hosted by Pearl Modiadei and Amon Mokoena, the live telecast on SABC 1 featured awards in 22 categories, presented by an array of top talent. This year winners in each category bagged a staggering R100 000.

Check Out The Full List Of Winners Below:

Best New Artist – Nasty C

Best Compilation Album – Dj Qnesss "Essential Selection"

Best Collaboration – Miss Pru "Ameni"

Best Urban Jazz Album – Henry Philemon "Man of Definition"

Best Gospel Album – Dr Tumi "Love and Grace"

Beat Music Video – Duboiz "Dope Dream"

Best Dance Album – Mobi Dixon

Best Rnb Single – Amanda Black"Separate"

Best Afro Pop Album – Musa "Mr Seriou"

Best Styled Artist – Mafikizolo

Best Female Artist – Kelly Khumalo

Best Male Album – Nasty C "Bad Hair Extensions"

Best Kwaito Album – L'Vovo

Lifetime Achievement Award – Caiphus Semenya and Letta Mbuli

Best Hip Hop Album – Nasty C "Bad Hair Extensions"

Best Duo – Durbans Finest

One Africa Award – Vee Mampeezy

Best Remix Single – Prince Kaybee

Best Hit Single – Riky Rick "Sidlukotini"

Listeners Choice Award – Amanda Black

Best Song Of The Year – Nasty C " Hell Naw"

Ronaldo and Manchester United top online in China

World Footballer of the year and Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo is comfortably the most influential football player online in China, while Manchester United are the most dominant club, according to a report.

The annual "Red Card" report by Shanghai-based consultancy Mailman compiled data on top European clubs and their players, using metrics including social media followers, fan engagement and e-commerce.

Portugal forward Ronaldo topped the index ahead of second-placed Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil and thirdplaced Real teammate Gareth Bale. United pair Anthony Martial and Wayne Rooney rounded out the top five.

Ronaldo's online engagement was more than "10 times" higher than any other player, the report said.

Football-mad China has proven an increasingly lucrative market for Europe's top leagues, clubs and players.

The English Premier League is understood to have sold three years of television rights in China from 2019-20 to streaming service PPTV for $700 million (R9 billion), several times the size of a previous sixyear deal with Bei j i ng- b a s e d Super Sports Media.

United toured the country in the pre-season last year and were ranked ahead of Bayern Munich, Arsenal and Liverpool for online influence.

Cross-town rivals Manchester City were fifth on the table.

Although English clubs dominated the top five, the German Bundesliga was rated the most influential league ahead of the Premier League and Spain's La Liga.

The Bundesliga was the only European league to have launched a "full digital presence including a Chinese language website", the report said.
China has the world's largest population of internet users, with its top social messaging app WeChat boasting 800 million users.

© Reuters

#Puma gets Mzansi artistes to #RunTheStreets

PUMA's Run The Streets campaign gets a local flavour with rapper Gigi Lamayne, 2015 South African Hip Hop Awards winner Nasty C, Digital Maskandi founder and artist Mashayabhuqe KaMamba and PUMA's own Rolo Rozay lacing up in the IGNITE Limitless Core and IGNITE evoKNIT Fade footwear.
 
The foursome will be featured in the footwear and evoKNIT apparel offering in the commercial shot by Paul Ward with voice over by MC Tumi (Stogie T) and music by Sibot. The commercial in a 90 second and 30 second format will be driven via television, digital and PUMA South Africa's social media channels.

"We are excited to have a strong stable of powerful, talented local influencers that can sit alongside Grammy-award winning artist The Weeknd, in our Run the Streets campaign in South Africa," said PUMA South Africa's Marketing Director Brett Bellinger.

The IGNITE Limitless Core and IGNITE evoKNIT Fade, inspired by tailored performance, is designed to stand up to the stop-and-go of city living with stylish, comfortable, and protective features. The design began with streetwear influences then added performance features and technologies, with special interest paid to textures and details including bonded edges, matte and shine play, collar height and large, bold branding. 

Simply Carol rocks Destiny Magazine cover

Rocking Adidas in a super stylish way, first lady of sport Carol Tshabalala stuns on the cover of Destiny Magazine.

Carol looking funky and ready to take over the world on the latest edition of Destiny mag, was pictured dressed in a crop hoodie and tulle, finished her look with a sneakers.

Destiny Magazine shared the cover on their Instagram page, captioned:

"In the #MarchIssue, we feature South Africa's first lady of sports presenting, Carol Tshabalala who famously turned down CNN to focus on covering African sports, and has now accepted a pound-paying international gig on her own terms. PLUS you get 1 of 2 free gifts… a L'Oréal Infallible Pro-Matte foundation or Powder worth R199. Issue in stores from today!"

A post shared by DestinyConnect (@destinyconnect) on Feb 20, 2017 at 2:40am PST

Unpacking #Budget2017 for your business

In the midst of a fluctuating rand and an economy in need of resurgence, Minister Gordhan provides a glimmer of hope to businesses against the backdrop of an already slow growth economy.

FNB Business experts share their views on the Budget speech.

Attie Anderson, Head of Commercial Property Finance at FNB Business:

There was not much in the Budget Speech related directly to the Commercial Property sector; the indirect consequences will however be felt by the industry. The fact that Personal Income Tax increased, together with higher fuel levies, will put consumers under even more pressure. Retail Properties will be affected by lower trading volumes, especially those retail centres aimed at the high end market and durable goods. We may well see an increase in vacancy rates as the impact of the "tightening the belt" reality starts affecting spending patterns.

Some good news was the increase of the Transfer Duty threshold on Properties from R750 000 to R900 000. This may assist Property Investors in the Rental Stock Market.

Dawie Maree, Head of Information and Marketing at FNB Business, Agriculture:

This was a fairly optimistic budget that will put the credit rating agencies at ease. As with SONA 2017, the focus was on transformation. The budget does however offer a limited scope for transformation; given the fact that allocation for land redistribution declined by 3%, but for restitution it increased by 2.5%. Allocations for farmer support and development increased by 10%, to R 3.79 billion which will go a long way in assisting subsistent farmers.

A concern for agriculture is the introduction of the sugar tax for both intrinsic and added sugar beverages. It is still not clear how this will be implemented and consultation is continuing. Another concern is the additional fuel levy and levy for the Road Accident Fund, totalling 39c/litre. The diesel rebate system is still in place and it increased from R 2.62/litre to R 2.83/litre. This is about the only assistance that farmers get from government, compared to other farmers in the world which is heavily subsidised.

Yudhvir Seetharam, Head of Analytics at FNB Business:

The 2017/2018 budget speech was well received amidst both political and economic uncertainty for South Africa. There were key encouraging points for entrepreneurs in particular. While the Minister states that economic growth is slow and times are generally tough, "we draw strength from the resilience and the diverse capabilities of our people, our business sector, our unions and our social formations."

 The Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) has allocated R3.9 billion of funding for SMEs. This would help entrepreneurs with high potential business ideas turn those into a reality. Indeed, the Minister mentions that the benchmark of success is whether we as a country (and more so with business owners) "create jobs, eliminate poverty and narrow the inequality gap".
 
Commodity prices have recovered from previous lows, boding well for those exporting goods. This, along with drought relief, should see a good recovery in our raw materials and agricultural sectors.
 
The recovering Rand also helps strengthen business and consumer confidence, which imply a positive economic outlook for the year. However, while growth is expected to be positive, the Minister also mentions that it is below the NDP goals.
 
There needs to be a streamlining of regulatory functions and investment approval processes, particularly for SMEs. This is seen by the DTI leading the initiative to make it easier to start and run a business. Sectors that are getting focused attention would be in tourism and hospitality. However, the increased sales in these sectors might be offset by a strengthening Rand.

New #SuperRugby magazine show to air on #SuperSport: #FirstXV

Aren't we all excited that SuperRugby is back? Well SuperSport is ticking all the right boxes to make sure that we enjoy the rugby extravaganza.

A refined broadcast experience, a brand-new show and an enhanced use of technology underpin SuperSport's broadcast of Vodacom Super Rugby, which begins tomorrow.

A new magazine show will debut on Wednesday (February 22) – First XV – and is designed to be high-energy with interactive elements. With a shift away from the traditional studio environment, there will be a less formal approach that incorporates demonstrations and the like.

Xola Ntshinga and Elma Smit will be the regular hosts with the show going out every Wednesday evening at 8pm.

Riky Rick invited to attend #Gucci Fashion Show in Milan

Popular Mzansi rapper and fashion enthusiast Riky Rick has been invited to attend the Gucci Fashion Show in Milan, Italy, this week.

The man, also known as King Kotini, will be a guest of creative director Alessandro Michele at the fall/winter 2017 and 2018 Women and Men's Fashion Show at the Gucci headquarters.

His travelling arrangements have been covered by Gucci and he is scheduled to meet the label's president and chief executive officer Marco Bizzarri as well as attend a private Gucci showroom presentation.

Speaking to the Sowetan newspaper from Milan, Rick said: "This means everything for me. I only wanted to change people's mindsets and make them believe that they can do it their way. For an international brand to call me out is the biggest pay-off for me as an African kid. It means so much. I could die tomorrow."

Sugar tax must be implemented with supporting educational programme #Budget2017

The new tax on sugar-sweetened drinks will have to form part of an integrated programme to change consumer behaviour and subsequently play an important role in addressing a range of health issues, says Ettiene Retief, Chairperson of the National Tax and SARS Stakeholders Committees, South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA).

Retief's statement comes in light of Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan's National Budget Speech that is to take place on 22 February wherein it is anticipated that he will confirm the implementation of the widely-debated proposed sugar tax.

"The tax on its own will raise a relatively small amount of money for the fiscus and would be unlikely to yield the full extent of the expected change in consumer patterns on its own. To do that, the government needs to implement a supporting educational and health awareness programme," Retief says.

However, it is important to note the health issue not only refers to obesity, but also diabetes, heart decease and tooth decay.

Substitute drinks
Global experience with tobacco and alcohol shows many variables have to be taken into account, including whether there is an attractive substitute product. In this case, mineral waters and sugar-free beverages are readily available. However, some consumers may simply shift to cheaper sugar-sweetened brands, highlighting the need for a complementary public-education and awareness programme.

Recently, the experience of the Californian town of Berkeley has shown that a general excise tax combined with a public-awareness campaign can yield good results. After a "soda tax" was implemented, there was a 21 percent drop in the consumption of sugary beverages, and a 63 percent increase the drinking of bottled or tap water. Only 2 percent of those surveyed said that they had begun shopping in nearby cities where the tax was not implemented.

Redeployed versus unemployed
The argument is often made that reduced consumption will inevitably mean the loss of jobs along the beverage supply chain. However, the quantum of lost jobs is hotly disputed, Retief points out. "In addition, if consumers shift to sugar-free beverages or mineral water, it seems likely that workers could simply be redeployed—especially as most manufacturers of sugar-based beverages also have well-established low-calorie or water alternatives. But even if a few jobs are in fact lost, a sensible health policy is a moral imperative especially when it comes to protecting children."

A more aggressive argument could be that a sugar tax could open up opportunities for smaller, local companies to supply alternative beverages. This would potentially mean the creation of new jobs and a boost to empowerment.

Poor health equals high costs
Another point to keep in mind is the high cost to the country of the diseases and chronic conditions linked to excessive sugar intake. This includes direct cost to the health care system, plus lost productivity.

World Health Organisation figures indicate that 1.5 million people died in 2012 as a result of diabetes and other chronic conditions linked to high-sugar diets. More worrying, it believes that 42 million children under the age of five are obese, a huge increase from 11 million only 15 years ago. The Berkeley study also revealed that the "soda tax" had the most impact on the lower income groups and children.

Dustbins smell badly, but their filthy smell is stinking cash for some #Recycling

Thembisile Kubheka lives by collecting waste material for recycling from the suburban dustbins of Springs.

The 49-year-old single mother of three children wakes up early in the morning to catch a taxi at 06:00 from her two-roomed house in Geluksdal, Brakpan, to get to Geduld.

By 07:00 she is rummaging through dustbins, collecting plastic containers, cardboard boxes and empty cans, GroundUp reported.

"In the location [where she lives] there is no good stuff," she says. "People do not buy as much as people living in town."

And, says Kubheka: "People in our area laugh at you when you pick up things from the dustbins. They think you are suffering. Or that you are mad. Not that I care much; as long as I am able to put food on the table."

"To people dustbins smell bad. To me they smell of money. It's better to have little than nothing at all," she says.

R60 on a good day

Kubheka has been collecting waste material for recycling for 10 years now. She tries to get to town as early as possible, before the other waste pickers and before the municipal garbage collectors. She says lately there have been fights over waste materials at the dump site in Brakpan, so she no longer goes there.

Kubheka suffers from high blood pressure and must lie down sometimes. At the time of the interview, she said she had sores in her mouth and a throat infection.

"Who knows? Maybe I got infected from one of the dustbins. But I can't stop now. Where else can I get money? I just have to be careful next time and wear a protective mask to avoid getting infected. But I also need to have money to buy one," she says.

She works with her bare hands and without any protective clothing.

Some residents of Geduld keep empty containers for her until she comes around. Some give her food, money and second-hand clothes for her children.

At the recycling company she gets R3.20 per kg for plastic containers and empty cans, R1.20 per kg for plastic, and R2 per kg for cardboard boxes.

She makes around R40 a day, and on a good day, R60. Her daily taxi fare is R26.

"l need every cent," she says.

Source: GroundUp/ News24

International recognition for SA innovators

Two South African Cleantech innovators have been honoured at the Global Forum during the 2017 Cleantech Week in San Francisco.

Yolandi Schoeman – the winner of the 2016 South African Global Cleantech Innovation Programme for SMEs (GCIP-SA) – was named in one of two overall runners-up teams and 2016 GCIP-SA runner-up Martin Ackermann was the winner in the Green Buildings category.

Schoeman and Ackermann competed with clean technology innovators and entrepreneurs from India, Malaysia, Morocco, Pakistan and Turkey.

Schoeman's "aWetbox – a wetland in a box" is a nature-based ecologically engineered water-purifying solution, suitable for use in rural communities facing water security challenges, as well as for residential, holiday and corporate developments.

It is also available as a do-ityourself package.

"Being part of the GCIP-SA programme has been an important learning experience in my entrepreneurial career," Schoeman said.

"Besides the honour of being selected a global runner-up, this acknowledgement also confirms that ecological engineering has been placed on the global map."

Ackermann said he was delighted with the recognition.
"This award is our first step in convincing the world that this is the way all roof tiles should be made. We are extremely excited about the future of our product."

The roof tiles are manufactured from 99% waste materials. The tiles are 75% lighter than conventional concrete roof tiles but double the strength with less than 0.1% breakage, translating into cost savings of 8% – 15% on total roof installation.

"The achievements of the GCIP-SA participants at the Global Forum illustrates the level and quality of cleantech innovation and entrepreneurship in the country," said Gerswynn McKuur, National Project Manager of the GCIP in South Africa.

© Citizen

#Fifa's SA Summit gets underway in Jo'burg this week

Fifa president Gianni Infantino will meet more than 50 presidents of African football associations in an unprecedented summit in Johannesburg this week.

Each of the continent's 54 member countries has been invited to a daylong executive summit with Infantino, called to discuss general issues in the game and explain Fifa's plans to expand the World Cup and changes to its development structures.

The association presidents will be divided into two groups with some 25 meeting Infantino and other Fifa officials tomorrow and the rest repeating the exercise the next day, organisers said yesterday. It is the first time such a summit has been held at which Fifa deals directly with all the leaders of African football.

Infantino, however, did meet about 20 association presidents in Nigeria last July in a gathering that pointedly snubbed long-standing Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Issa Hayatou and members of his executive committee.

Hayatou, 70, is seeking to extend his tenure in office into a third decade but faces a strong challenge from Ahmad of Madagascar, a former government minister who uses just one name. The CAF elections are to be held in Addis Ababa on March 16.

Donald's star continues shining

Donald recently held a media screening for his Red Mic Experience live DVD.

Held at the Multichoice City Cinema in Randburg, Joburg, the screening was attended by the who's who of the media and entertainment industry.

Guests included the American-born Kenyan singer, Victoria Kimani, hip hop group, Dreamteam, who also feature on the DVD, media personality, Masechaba Ndlovu, actress Natasha Tahane, Idols finalists, Thami Shobede and Lucia Jakeni, actor and producer Akhumzi Jezile and fashion designer, Paledi Segapo.

Pearl Thusi heading back to Mzansi for Lip Sync Battle Africa Season 2 #LSBAfrica

MTV Base has revealed that the ultimate lip synching showdown is back – yes, Lip Sync Battle Africa, the pop culture phenomenon that's swept the continent, returns to our TV screens from 6 April 2017!.

At the helm for the second season is uber-babe, actress, presenter and model Pearl Thusi while flamboyant Nigerian man-about-town, TV presenter and fashion icon Denrele takes over the role of "colour commentator", adding his lively observations to the proceedings.

No stranger to the music business, Denrele has interviewed the likes of Akon, Beyoncé , Tyler Perry, Lil' Kim, Snoop Dogg, and many more. Famous in Nigeria for his OTT calculated madness and edgy eccentricity, Denrele was himself a contestant on Lip Sync Battle Africa in Season 1, where he battled against fellow TV personality Ebuka, losing out narrowly, despite storming performances of "Johnny" by Yemi Alade and Jamiroquai's 90s hit, "Virtual Insanity".

Flipping his trademark tangled locks, an excited Denrele commented, "Co-hosting Lip Sync Battle Africa is truly the answer to a prayer I never made! The universe truly opened a door, and I'm gonna make sure I jump right inside and DO IT!  It's quite surreal – I was a contestant in Series 1 who flew in last minute and "spiritually" won his LSB challenge, and now I've been elevated to co-host!  Try not to watch me, I dare you!!!!
 
Lip Sync Battle Africa season 2 will see well-known personalities and entertainers from across the continent strutting their stuff as they "lip sync" or mime to well-known songs in a bid to win the famous LSB winner's belt, armed with dancers, wigs, costumes, props and tons of swag!

Lip Sync Battle Africa (series 2) premieres on MTV Base (SA) on Thursday 6 April 2017 at 21:30 CAT.

#NBA Africa game returns to South Africa in August

The National Basketball Association (NBA) and the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) announced today that NBA Africa Game 2017, the NBA's second game in Africa, will take place Saturday, Aug. 5 at the Ticketpro Dome in Johannesburg, South Africa. 

The announcement was made at the annual NBA Africa All-Star Luncheon in New Orleans by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, NBPA Executive Director Michele Roberts and NBA Vice President and Managing Director for Africa, Amadou Gallo Fall, who were joined by NBA Africa Game 2017 players Bismack Biyombo (Orlando Magic; Democratic Republic of the Congo), CJ McCollum (Portland Trail Blazers; U.S.) and Emmanuel Mudiay (Denver Nuggets; Democratic Republic of the Congo).

The game, which will take place following the 15th edition of Basketball without Borders (BWB) Africa, will once again feature a Team Africa vs. Team World format and will be played in support of UNICEF, the Nelson Mandela Foundation and SOS Children's Villages South Africa (SOSCVSA).  Team Africa will be comprised of players from Africa and second generation African players, and Team World will be comprised of players from the rest of the world.  The game will air live in sub-Saharan Africa on Kwesé's TV, Internet and mobile platforms, including Kwesé Free Sports, Kwesé Sports, select free-to-air channels, Kwesesports.com, and the Kwesé app.

Biyombo, the seventh overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft and a member of Team Africa in NBA Africa Game 2015, will join 2015-16 NBA All-Rookie Second Team member Mudiay on Team Africa.  McCollum, the 2015-16 Kia NBA Most Improved Player, will play for Team World.

Full rosters of players, coaches and legends, along with ticket information will be announced at a later date. 

Here is what's going down in #Joburg this weekend #WeekendGuide

Diepkloof Jazz Giants Session
Get relaxed by soothing jazz jams
When: Tomorrow, 2pm
Where: No.1 Diepkloof, Soweto

Speedofest
Get into your speedo to show support for charity and rock music
When: Tomorrow, noon
Where: Rumours Rock City, Blackheath
Tickets: R100
www.webtickets.co.za

Colourfest U18
An age appropriate colour extravaganza
When: Tomorrow, 11am
Where: Innesfreepark, Sandton

Bubbles and BFF's
Network with other women over champaign and spa treatment
When: Tomorrow, 9am
Where: Kloofzicht Lodge, Muldersdrift
Tickets: R1999
www.webtickets.co.za

Casper de Vries
An evening of laughter with the legendary funny man
When: Tonite and tomorrow, 8pm
Where: Carnival City
Tickets: R120-R150
www.webtickets.co.za

Win double tickets worth R200 each to the #Homemakers Expo

There's no place like home.  It's your pride and joy, the place that evokes a sigh of relief when you walk through the door, and where your heart is.

 The 2017 Johannesburg HOMEMAKERS Expo celebrates its 24th year with the theme "A Tribute to Your Home".

 The show is packed with features and great "buys" such as the Great Specials on the floor, the I love Jozi graffiti wall, Book Nooks, The Workshop and so much more. 

 How about winning some Double tickets Valued at R200 each?

Show Dates - 4 Day Expo (Tickets are valid for any one of the 4 days)

Next week:  Thursday, 23rd February - Sunday, 26th February

Venue:  Ticketpro Dome

To win, simply tell us where the Homemakers Expo is taking place. Its as simple as that. Send an email with your name, contact number and your answer to trendsmzansi@mail.com

South Africa's top ten celebs who rule #Twitter

Youth Village compiled their list of South Africa's top celebrities whom they believe rule twitter in the entertainment biz.

1. Trevor Noah

The comedian gained tons of followers after being appointed as the The Daily Show host

2. Ntsiki Mazwai

Nothing stops Ntsiki from speaking her mind on twitter. She just tell it like it is and doesn't sugarcoat the truth.

3. Emtee

The rapper has now turned into the king of clapbacks. He doesn't have time for social media haters. He will tell you where to get off in just blink of an eye

4. AKA

Supa Mega is also the king of hit backs. He is so savage and has zero chill

5. Gareth Cliff

Gareth is known to be outspoken, honest and somewhat controversial. Oh we almost forgot to mention that he is very witty

6. Dineo Ranaka

This media personality is known for her shamelessness for media spotlight. She also speaks her mind when need be

7. DJ Zinhle

DJ Zinhle is proving women can have it all only when they set their mind to it.

8. Bonang Matheba

Bonang is definitely the queen of twitter. She recently gained 1 Million twitter followers

9. Cassper Nyovest

Abut fill up gained more twitter followers when he had beef with rapper AKA. He also bagged in followers when he filled up the Dome. Talk about levels!

10. Somizi

Somizi is known to be outspoken and for his colorful nature

© Youth Village

#Lions name 2017 #SuperRugby team

Lions boss Johan Ackermann has named a 40-man squad for the 2017 Super Rugby season.

Included are no less than nine Springboks, with Warren Whiteley expected to be named captain next week before the Lions kick off their campaign against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein.

Missing from the squad this year are tighthead specialist Julian Redelinghuys and flank Warwick Tecklenburg; the former suffering with a neck injury while the latter has retired from the game.

Also in the mix are rookies, flyhalf Shaun Reynolds, flank Hacjivah Dayimani and wing Madosh Tambwe.

New recruits, props Johannes Jonker, Sti Sithole and Hencus van Wyk, and lock Marvin Orie also add more depth to an already powerful looking squad.
The Lions are well covered in all positions with potentially only the flyhalf berth a problem area should anything happen to Bok No 10 Elton Jantjies.

Jaco van der Walt is the obvious back-up but he has not performed up to scratch in recent seasons at No 10, while Reynolds is just a rookie, set to play in his first season in Super Rugby.

Elsewhere fans will feel their team is well stocked as the Lions look to continue from their strong showing of a year ago when they went all the way to the final.

Squad:
Utility backs: Jaco van der Walt, Andries Coetzee, Sylvian Mahuza
Wings: Ruan Combrinck, Courtnall Skosan, Madosh Tambwe, Anthony Volmink
Centres: Rohan Janse van Rensburg, Lionel Mapoe, Howard Mnisi, Jacques Nel, Harold Vorster
Flyhalves: Elton Jantjies, Shaun Reynolds
Scrumhalves: Faf de Klerk, Dillon Smit, Ross Cronje
Utility forwards: Ruan Ackermann, Fabian Booysen, Cyle Brink, Robert Kruger
Loose-forwards: Warren Whiteley, Jaco Kriel, Hacjivah Dayimani, Kwagga Smith
Locks: Lourens Erasmus, Andries Ferreira, Franco Mostert, Marvin Orie
Props: Justin Ackermann, Ruan Dreyer, Dylan Smith, Jacques van Rooyen, Corne Fourie, Johannes Jonker, Sti Sithole, Hencus van Wyk
Hookers: Malcolm Marx, Robbie Coetzee, Akker van der Merwe

Minnie Dlamini jets off to cover the #AllStarWeekend #NBA

Supersport presenter Minnie Dlamini is on her way to New Orleans to cover the  All-Star Weekend.

The local star shared the news on her Twitter account saying that she is joining Thomas Mlambo to cover the NBA All-Star Weekend.

She also showed off her Valentine's Day slippers which we're assuming are a gift from her fiance, Quinton Jones.
Another 14hour flight 😩 Maybe a selfie will help? Lol pic.twitter.com/Pqo1yZLjzZ

— Minenhle Dlamini (@MinnieDlamini) February 15, 2017
I'm off with my Valentines slippers ✈️I love what I do with all of me ❤ @thomasmlambo see you soon #NBAAllStarWeekend 🏀🇺🇸@NBA_Africa pic.twitter.com/b8LV6p9hTY

— Minenhle Dlamini (@MinnieDlamini) February 15, 2017

How to be more productive on your #Smartphone

Much more than just making calls and sending text messages, your smartphone can do so many other things, from scanning documents, to measuring your pulse. ALCATEL helps you discover five features that will make your smartphone your best ally.

Scan your documents

You may be unaware of this, but your smartphone can act as a scanner to scan documents. This convenient feature will make your life easier. With the camera of your smartphone and a good application, it is possible to scan any type of document. By default, Google's Drive application is ideal for scanning documents in PDF format.

Open the Drive application, click the "Add" button and select "Scan". All you have to do is follow the on-screen instructions to scan your document.

Measure your pulse

Of course, everyone knows that you can measure your heart rate with your smartphone or your connected watch. But do you know that it is also possible to measure your pulses only with the photo sensor of your smartphone? This is thanks to applications such as Runtastic Heart Rate FC. Simply place your finger on the camera and the flash of your smartphone, to measure your pulse.

Tour from your smartphone

Google allows you to visit the most popular tourist sites in the world, from your smartphone. With its Street View application, travel around the world and discover historical monuments in virtual reality.

Make photo montages like a pro

Do you have hundreds of photos in your smartphone but lack creativity? Make the process quick and easy with Google Photos. Simply open the Google Photos app. Click the "Add" button to display the menu. The application offers you the option to create an album, a movie, a story, an animation and a montage. All you have to do is decide.

Become a reporter

If you like to share your adventures and events with your loved ones, you're in luck. Thanks to your smartphone and the Periscope application, you can now make video reports and share them live with the world. Download and install the app from the Google Play Store. Once installed, open Periscope then click on the camera button to start recording your first live video.

Cornal Hendricks joins #Bulls for fitness and medical testing

The Blue Bulls Company on Thursday announced that former Springboks and Springbok Sevens winger, Cornal Hendricks, has joined the Vodacom Bulls for medical and fitness testing.

Hendricks will train with the Pretoria franchise and undergo a number of medical tests and if all results are positive, will possibly join the Bulls for the upcoming Vodacom Super Rugby season.
 
The winger, who played Super Rugby for the Toyota Cheetahs and scored five tries for the Springboks in 12 tests, has been inactive since a medical condition was diagnosed early in 2016.
 
The player is keen to return to the playing field pending medical clearance and according to the BBC's High Performance Manager, Xander Janse van Rensburg, they will be happy to see Hendricks continuing his career as a Vodacom Bulls player.

"We understand the potential health issues and risks and have asked a number of leading specialist in their field to give us their assessments. Cornal is a world class player and we will be delighted to have him in our squad, but player welfare has always been a non-negotiable priority in the Bulls set-up and will always be seen more important than short term results. We are confident that Cornal will be cleared and will join us," Janse van Rensburg said.

#Nokia 3310 set to make surprise comeback later this month

If you still have your Nokia 3310, then I'm mostly certainly positive that the battery still works!

The most resilient and reliable phone ever made is making a comeback.

Seventeen years after it was originally launched, the Nokia 3310 will reportedly re-launch at Mobile World Congress later this month.

According to reports, the phone will initially be available only to European and North American consumers.

It's still possible to buy the 3310 on Amazon, though only through its marketplace and not directly from the company itself.

The phone will have features such as a clock, calculator, the ability to store up to 10 reminders and four games: Snake II, Pairs II, Space Impact, and Bantumi.

#Bulls name 2017 #SuperRugby squad

The Vodacom Bulls on Monday named 46 players in their Vodacom Super Rugby squad for the 2017 season, including injured skipper Adriaan Strauss and new signings Johnny Kotze (DHL Stormers), Jacques Potgieter (Cell C Sharks) and Conraad van Vuuren (Toyota Free State).

Potgieter, who re-joins the Vodacom Bulls after stints with the Waratahs, Sharks and Japan's Sanix Blues, is one of 12 Springboks in the squad, with Namibian international, Renaldo Bothma, adding further international experience.

Adriaan Strauss, who retired from international rugby at the end of last year, will again lead the side, but with the hooker recovering from back surgery and not expected back for the opening weeks of the tournament, Handré Pollard will take the reins.

The Springbok pivot missed all of last year through injury, but is now fully recovered.

Strauss (132 matches) is by far the most experienced player in the squad, with Trevor Nyakane (70), and Piet van Zyl (68) the only other players past 50 caps.

Jan Serfontein (48) and Arno Botha (46) could pass that milestone soon while a number of new faces could debut in 2017.

Luther Obi, Jade Stighling, JT Jackson, Tony Jantjies, Duncan Matthews, Kefentse Mahlo, Sibahle Maxwane and Andre Warner are the backs that could make their first Super Rugby appearances, while forwards Shaun Adendorff, Ruan Steenkamp, Conraad van Vuuren, John-Roy Jenkinson and Corniel Els could also feature in the competition for the first time. Prop Martin Dreyer did play for the DHL Stormers in previous seasons, but has not yet played for the Vodacom Bulls in the competition.

Vodacom Bulls coach, Nollis Marais, is excited about the season and expressed happiness with the squad.

"It is exciting times for us and we are keen to get going. A lot of the players have experienced Super Rugby last season for the first time, so they will have a much better understanding ofwhat to expect. We have one or two players out with injury still, but that gives another guy the opportunity to grow and gain experience," Marais said.

The Vodacom Bulls squad for 2017 is:

Backs: Ulrich Beyers, Warrick Gelant, Jesse Kriel*, Travis Ismaiel, Luther Obi, Jamba Ulengo*, Jade Stighling, Duncan Matthews, Kefentse Mahlo, Sibahle Maxwane, Johnny Kotze, Dries Swanepoel, Burger Odendaal, JT Jackson, Jan Serfontein*, Francois Brummer, Tony Jantjies, Tian Schoeman, Handre Pollard* (c), Ivan van Zyl, Piet van Zyl*, Rudy Paige*, Andre Warner, Hanro Liebenberg, Arno Botha*, Nick de Jager, Renaldo Bothma**, Jannes Kirsten, Jacques Potgieter*, Roelof Smit***, Shaun Adendorff, Ruan Steenkamp, Lood de Jager*, RG Snyman***, Jason Jenkins, Trevor Nyakane*, Conraad van Vuuren, John-Roy Jenkinson, Martin Dreyer, Jacobie Adriaanse, Pierre Schoeman, Lizo Gqoboko***, Adriaan Strauss*, Edgar Marutlulle, Corniel Els,Jaco Visagie.

*Springboks

**Namibian international

***Springbok tourist vs Barbarians

Players In: Johnny Kotze (Stormers), Jacques Potgieter (Cell C Sharks), Conraad van Vuuren (Toyota Free State).

Players Out: SP Marais, Bjorn Basson, Dan Kriel (all DHL Stormers), Lappies Labuschagne, Deon Stegmann, Grant Hattingh (all Japan), Nicolaas Janse van Rensburg, Marcel van der Merwe (France), Werner Kruger (Wales), Callie Visagie, Bandise Maku (retired). 

Standard Bank heaps praise on #Proteas ICC ODI ranking

Standard Bank has heaped praise and expressed its delight as the Standard Bank Proteas reached the summit of the ICC One-Day International World Rankings over the weekend.

The team has displayed the dedication and commitment of true champions to win a record 14 consecutive ODI games on home soil over the past year. Their march to the top has included back-to-back five match clean sweeps against both Australia and Sri Lanka.

"The Standard Bank Proteas began a journey a year ago to reclaim their number one ranking and have overcome every hurdle before them to achieve their goal. They have beaten current world champions Australia and former world champions Sri Lanka in the past few months to get there. This is no mean feat and they deserve the highest praise for such a wonderful achievement," says Hazel Chimhandamba, Head of Sponsorship at Standard Bank Group. 

Following the recent victory, spin wizard Imran Tahir has also jumped to number one in the global ODI rankings, while Kagiso Rabada is at number seven. Test captain Faf du Plessis, meanwhile achieved the feat of becoming only the second Protea after Hashim Amla to score 400 runs in a five match ODI series.

"There is a wonderful sense of unity in this team and the #ProteaFire has never died over the past year, no matter the challenges. There is little doubt they will continue with this form in their upcoming away tours," says Ms Chimhandamba.

The Proteas have already arrived in New Zealand for their next quest and then have a tour against England, which takes place on either side of the all-important ICC Champions Trophy.

"Standard Bank wholeheartedly supports the Proteas on these upcoming tours. This is a team that represents the fighting spirit of our rainbow nation and they will only go from strength to strength going in to the crucial Champions Trophy. We are proud to be a supporter of this wonderful national iconic team"

What your fav local celebs got up to on #Valentines

While TV star Bonnie Mbuli flaunted her beau for Valentine's Day yesterday, other celebs decided to "love themselves".

hitmaker and Moneyback African rap queen Nadia Nakai told Sowetan earlier that she would be spoiling herself this Valentine's Day by picking up a new Audi A3.

"I didn't want to tell you, I wanted to post it on social media first, but yeah! I'm going to pick up my New Audi, I'm spoiling myself," said the rapper.

Radio personality Khetsiwe Morgan, aka DJ Doowap, decided to express her love through her craft. "I'm spreading my love today [yesterday] the best way I know how ... through music, Gonna play a young set at a school this morning and raise the vibrations of the youngins nyana," wrote the fashion enthusiast on her Instagram account.

Presenter and actress Boity Thulo, who posted a picture of herself on Instagram rocking a spicy-red jumpsuit captioned "perfect outfit for the day", said she was focusing on her craft. "I don't know, what is Valentines? I'm joking, I will just be working, I'm on set shooting today," said Club 808 the giggling Thulo when asked what she was doing yesterday.

Hip-hop artist Gigi Lamayne said she was going to have fun with her girlfriends. "The girls are going out to paint the town red and find single guys lol."

© Sowetan

#Momentum One Day Cup roars into life this weekend

The Momentum One-Day Cup gets underway this weekend with a full round of 50 overs matches.

First round of fixtures

 Friday, 17 February: Multiply Titans v Hollywoodbets Dolphins, SuperSport Park, 14h00

Saturday, 18 February:  VKB Knights v BuildNat Cobras, Mangaung Oval, 14h00

Sunday, 19 February: bizhub Highveld Lions v Warriors, Bidvest Wanderers Stadium, 10h00

Spoil your taste buds! #ValentinesDay meal savings

Hudsons (Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban)

Enjoy happy hour from 4.30pm to 6.30pm, when all cocktails, beers on tap and appetisers are available at half price. This special is only available on weekdays.

Spur

Buy any burger or hot diggity dog from the Spur adult main menu and get a single one free. Add R20 for a free double burger. This special is available all day but is not available for takeaways. Also get the Unreal Breakfast for R29.90 before 11am, which includes two fried eggs, two grilled rashers of bacon, fried tomato, chips, two slices of toast, jam and butter. Add a bottomless filter coffee for only R19.90. This is also not available for takeaway.

Cape Town Fish Market

Get a 50% discount on classic sushi and 25% off sushi platters.

Col'Cacchio

Treat yourself to a fresh salad or a delicious gourmet pizza or pasta from the weekday Piccolo lunchtime menu, with dishes going for R60 or less. The menu is only available on weekdays until 4pm.

John Dory's

Enjoy half price on hake and chips. The plate arrives with two tempura-battered hake fillets and chips accompanied by rice or two hot veggies. No takeaways and no sharing.

Panarottis

Buy one standard size pizza or pasta and get one free (you will pay for the most expensive one). Upsize to a large pizza for an extra R20 per pizza. This special is available all day on Tuesdays. Also get your choice of Grilled Supremo breakfast, traditional breakfast-on-pizza, or Mexican breakfast-on-pizza for R29.90 until 11am. This is not available for takeaway.

Spur

Get the Unreal Breakfast for R29.90 before 11am, which includes two fried eggs, two grilled rashers of bacon, fried tomato, chips, two slices of toast, jam and butter. Add a bottomless filter coffee for only R19.90. This is also not available for takeaway.

Hungary offers 100 #Scholarships to South African students

In the season of #FeesMustFall, the 100 free scholarships that Hungary announced on Friday for South African students somehow has come at just the right time.

"It's a fact that higher education can be expensive across the world. This is indeed a great chance for South African youth to access free education," said András Király, Hungary's ambassador to Pretoria.

The scholarships are a way for Hungary to help countries that need to boost their education levels, Király said. "We've had our downturn in the economy and we believe we can now assist others," he said.

The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme will largely benefit undergraduate students.

Of the 100, 60 scholarships will go to undergraduate students, while 30 are for students pursuing Master's degrees and 10 for PhD scholars.

Király said they decided to have more scholarships for undergraduate students because this cohort generally needs funding the most.

The scholarship will cover tuition, accommodation, and its recipients will get a monthly stipend and medical insurance until completion of their studies.
The scholarship allows students to choose from 410 study programmes, including the humanities.

Király said successful applicants will have plenty time to prepare for life in a new country, as the academic year in Hungary starts in September.

"They will find a welcoming country," he said.

He pointed out that Hungary is one of the 25 most popular tourist destinations in the world. Its capital, Budapest, is regarded as one of the most beautiful cities.

"The students will also be able to travel across the European Union countries easily," said Király.

Students have until March 5 to apply, they can apply via this website - www.tka.hu/english

Students will hear in June if they have been selected and jet off in September.

If laughter be the food of love this #Valentines, laugh on! #MakeLifeFunnier

If laughter be the food of love, then laugh on. That's the motto of local comedians as Valentine's Day rolls around tomorrow.

In partnership with Comedy Central, 21 local comedians, including Nina Hastie, John Vlismas, Celeste Ntuli and Donovan Goliath will be posting special videos and pictures to illustrate their love — and sometimes hate — relationship with comedy.

The idea behind it is to #MakeLifeFunnier and encourage local audiences to fall in love with comedy a bit more this "love month".

"Love is tragic and comedy is a play on the tragic," explains Hastie, who will be dropping a skit on what is supposed to be the most romantic day of the year.

"People go crazy for love. You're either crying or laughing because of it," she adds.

"I personally have an on-againoff-again relationship with a rapper — and that rapper is me."

Vlismas says his relationship with comedy is straightforward and not particularly romantic.

"Look, if comedy had to ask me: 'Do I look fat in this dress?' I would not lie.
"I'm not so big on the roses and poetry. I'm the boyfriend that's realistic and won't allow you to feed into your insecurities."

He says that with comedy you need to give it extra attention for the relationship to last.

"As long as you make people feel good and give them extra attention then it'll work out. I intend to do just that on the day," he says.

© Times

Here is what presidents Jacob Zuma and Donald Trump spoke about

A strong commitment to bilateral relations between the US and South Africa and security matters in Africa were the main focus of the much-hyped telephone call between US President Donald Trump and President Jacob Zuma on Monday afternoon.

In a statement released by Zuma's office shortly after the call was said to have taken place, the Presidency said the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening already strong bilateral relations.

"There are six hundred US companies in South Africa and strong trade relations between the two countries," the Presidency said.

Zuma also congratulated Trump on his election as the USA's 45th president.

The two also discussed the need to work together on multilateral issues as well, "especially the quest for peace and stability on the African continent".

© News24

You can't put a price on love... Especially when it comes to #ValentinesDay

Whether it's a small romantic gesture or an extravagant surprise for your special someone, it would appear South African shoppers are feeling loved up, spending more on the most romantic day of the year than ever before.

The annual "Mastercard Love Index", created by analysing credit, debit and prepaid card transactions over a three-year period, has revealed that sentimental spending in South Africa has increased by 41 percent since 2014. And while the majority of present purchases still happen in person, love is the latest thing to go digital – with a 57 percent increase in the number of e-commerce transactions in the country from Valentine's Day 2014 to Valentine's Day 2016.    

If you still haven't picked up something special for your loved one you're not alone. Data showed the majority of Valentine's purchases globally happen during a last-minute dash on February 13th, with 47.4 million transactions that day alone over the past three years.

Recent years have shown that the stomach is increasingly the way to one's heart, with spending in restaurants soaring by 71 percent in South Africa since 2014.

"Whilst the way we say I love you might have changed in recent years, showing someone you care on February 14th is more popular than ever. The Mastercard Love Index highlights key global and regional trends to hopefully offer retailers some priceless insight into how customers want to spend the most romantic day of the year," says Mark Elliott, division president for Mastercard, South Africa.

The study, which looked at shopper behaviour in more than 20 territories around the globe, identified some other purchasing trends. 

Invest in your loved ones this #Valentines

Instead of splurging on expensive gifts this Valentine's, why not get your loved one a gift that will put them in a better financial position?

Ester Ochse, Channel Head for FNB Advisory says, "Valentine's Day is synonymous with partners exchanging gifts as a sign of appreciation for one another. This year, people should think a little differently and consider buying loved ones a gift that will have a lasting impact. This can be done by purchasing a share portfolio for someone or offering to open a Tax Free savings account on their behalf."

"While there's nothing wrong with spoiling a loved one as a gesture of appreciation, buying them an investment product could improve their financial future for the better."

The advantage of buying someone an investment product for Valentine's Day is that you have essentially given them a head-start. For example, if you buy someone a Tax Free Savings Account and offer to contribute a minimum of R300 a month for the next 12 months, by the time the next Valentine's Day comes you would have contributed R3600 into their investment. This is a good way of investing in someone, and it's a gift that will keep on giving because as the years go by it will bear interest.

According to economic data site tradingeconomics.com, South Africa's household savings rate remained unchanged at -0.80 % in the third quarter of 2016. Looking at other forms of gifts on Valentine's Day such as purchasing shares for our loved ones can contribute to changing our savings attitudes and the national savings rate in the long run.

"Investment products are hardly thought of as possible gifts, this too can be a way of showing appreciation for someone without spending large amounts of money. It's even better if the receiver of the gift does not have an investment. The advantage of this is that they will finally have an investment of their own and possibly develop good savings habits" adds Ochse.

#DailyThetha replaces popular #Shift on SABC 1

For almost 6 years SABC1 viewers have to come to love the daily show Shift.
Sadly, last week its time had come to an end and has been replaced by a new show, Daily Thetha, which promises to deliver fresh new talent.

Hosted by former Sunday Live presenter Tumelo Mothotoane and former Gagasi FM DJ Kini Shandu, the show will discuss issues pertaining to young people.

"The show will be very audience-driven. We will speak to young South Africans looking for opportunities. We will discuss relationships and even entrepreneurship," Tumelo said.

SABC management has promised to be uncompromising and will be expecting high performance from Daily Thetha in order to remain the leading channel in the country.

Daily Thetha airs Monday to Thursday at 11 am.

Addressing Africa's healthcare challenges through innovative solutions

Improving healthcare systems and the delivery of affordable, accessible healthcare services in African countries are key requisites for the optimal growth of the continent's economies as the health of a nation is intrinsically linked to its potential to thrive and optimise productivity. Although many African countries' increased focus on strengthening their healthcare systems in recent years has led to significant gains in terms of improving health outcomes, the continent continues to struggle with huge challenges such as underfunding, dire shortages of healthcare professionals and a growing double disease burden that encompasses both communicable diseases (CDs) and non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

To discuss innovative solutions to address the challenges, with the aim of sharing best practices and experiences, leading healthcare partners from Africa and across the world gathered in Johannesburg from the 1st to the 2nd of December 2016 for the 2nd Future Trends Forum in Africa. Hosted by global pharmaceutical pharmacy company, Novartis, in partnership with the University of Stellenbosch Business School, the Forum was one of a series of Future Trends Forums that have been organised by Novartis since 2008, in collaboration with other healthcare partners in different parts of the world. The main aim of the Future Trends Forum is to bring the leading minds in healthcare together to share best practices and experiences in building healthcare systems in emerging markets. The first Future Trends Forum in Africa was held in March 2015 in Lusaka in Zambia.

According to Dr Thomas Kowallik, CEO and Country President of Novartis in South Africa, the building of effective healthcare systems in Africa poses huge opportunities for investors in healthcare in terms of issues such as the establishment of infrastructure, and developing technology and systems to provide effective, affordable and accessible medicines and healthcare services.

Discussing Africa's unique challenges and possible solutions, specifically around healthcare financing , and access to medicines, Prof Panos Kanavos from the London School of Economics' (LSE) International Health Policy division in the Department of Social Policy, emphasised that healthcare is top priority for economic growth by most countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Prof Kanavos is also the Programme Director of the Medical Technology Research group at LSE.

He cited achieving measurable results in terms of health outcomes to incorporate healthcare financing mechanisms that offer financial protection to patients against catastrophic healthcare expenditures due to ill health, strengthening governance through an enabling legislative framework and ensuring transparency and accountability and open communication with stakeholders. In addition, he added that strengthening primary healthcare through a strong referral system, regulation of private health insurance (PHI) and health technology assessment (HTA) as well as economic evaluations to inform spending on technology, pharmaceutical and diagnostic aids, are crucial to improving population health.

Looking at achievements relating to increased healthcare spending per capita and reduced mortality rates in ten African countries from 2004 and 2015, Prof Kanavos presented research findings showing South Africa to be the top spender per capita on healthcare per year (rising from $80 per capita in 2004 to $540 in 2014). However, it is one of the countries that has made the least progress to decrease mortality rates over the past decade (from 52.8 per 100 000 population in 2005 to 33.6 in 2015). In contrast, a country such as Rwanda spends only around 54 dollars per capita (up from about $15 in 2005), but has managed to bring down its mortality rate from 77.7 per 100 000 population to 31 in 2015.

Everyone is so looking forward to #Sona2017

President Jacob Zuma is set to deliver the State of the Nation address (SONA) at Parliament in Cape Town on Thursday evening.

On Tuesday, the Presidency announced that 441 soldiers would be deployed to help police maintain "law and order" at the opening of Parliament.

The DA said the move violated the doctrine of the separation of powers, while the EFF called it a "declaration of war" on the country's citizens. Party spokesperson Mbuyiseni Ndlozi on Tuesday said that no amount of security and intimidation would stop the EFF from holding Zuma accountable in terms of the Constitution.

Even Parliament's presiding officers could on Wednesday not explain why the number of soldiers at the SONA had increased from 168 in 2013 to 441 this year.

Thursday might again see the EFF's MPs interrupt Zuma and pepper him with uncomfortable questions, as they did for the first time in 2015, when they asked him when he intended repaying the millions spent on his Nkandla homestead. Parliament's security forcibly removed them from the House.

Last year, the EFF heckled Zuma and raised points of order, only to leave the House chanting "Zupta must fall", a conflation of Zuma and Gupta, the business family he is friends with.

This year's SONA will start at 19:00.

The ANC will host a "people's assembly" at the Grand Parade in Cape Town at 15:00, so people could watch his speech on a big screen, and possibly get to see Zuma and other ANC leaders afterwards. The party had said it was an attempt to break down the impression that its leaders were out of touch with the people.

© News24