Travellers warned against #malaria this long weekend #FreedomDay

Holiday makers are warned to take precautionary measures if they are travelling to areas with a high risk malaria infection this long Weekend. This follows an increase of malaria cases reflected in initial data from the National Department of Health in the last three weeks.

As the world observed 25 April as World Malaria Day, motorists travelling to destinations such as north eastern Limpopo, eastern Mpumalanga, Mozambique and northern KwaZulu-Natal are advised to use anti-mosquito measures such as nets, repellents and prophylactic medicines.

The National Institute of Communicable Disease (NICD) also cautions travellers to guard against mosquitoes hitchhiking in vehicles returning from malaria areas and transmitting the infection to non-travellers.

Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by any one of five malaria parasite species which are the Plasmodium falciparum, ovale, vivax, malariae and knowlesi. Symptoms include 'flu-like' symptoms such as mild fever and sweating, headache, muscle aches and chills. Travellers are urged to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any of these symptoms.

According to the World Health Organisation, the disease is a serious challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa which is home to 90% of all malaria cases and 92% of all malaria deaths. Globally malaria infects over 200 million each year.

Feel it, its here! #LusitoLand Festival kicks off

It's time to hot-foot it to the Lusito Land Festival! Lovers of authentic Portuguese cuisine and culture will once again be able immerse themselves a celebration of delicious food and great entertainment. 

The festival, which runs from 26 April to 6 May, with a two-day break in between on 2 and 3 May, will be held at the new venue on Cayman Road in Alewynspoort, Johannesburg South.

Hot entertainment has been lined up for the festival and visitors will be able to catch top local acts such a such as AKA, Sketchy Bongo, The Parlotones, Mi Casa, Bobby van Jaarsveld, Snotkop, Matthew Mole, Lady Zamar, GoodLuck, Shekhinah, Dr Victor & The Rasta Rebels, Denim, 1st Project, Puppetsula, Choppa, Garth Taylor, Rubber Duc and Ballyhoo.

Festival Organiser, Noemi Contente, says they have taken suggestions from past patrons into account and implemented numerous upgrades to make the event better than ever. "With fun and the safety of festival-goers a top priority, we have planted grass to reduce dust, provided extra lighting and upgraded the restrooms.

"In addition, we have made additional entrances to the parking areas available (on Kliprivier (R550) between Iberis and Cayman Road and another on Cayman Road), moved the disabled parking areas closer to the entrance and transformed the main ticketing entrance," she adds.

A giant barrel marquee will be the hub of everything Portuguese. The marquee was custom-made for the event and will include an exhibition of traditional Portuguese ceramics, a Portuguese language stand hosted by the Camões Institute and another selling castanhas assadas (roasted chestnuts), a delicious Portuguese classic, amongst others.

All funds raised at the festival are donated to the Lusito School for the physically and mentally challenged.  Because the cost of caring for special-needs children and adults is beyond the means of many families, the proceeds from the festival go a long way towards easing their financial burden and ensuring learners benefit from a good education.

Don't miss out on the fun. Get your tickets at Computicket now. https://online.computicket.com/web/event/lusito_land_festival/1200078314/0/85568200

Celebrating #FreedomDay - The mark that made a difference #makeyourmark

South Africa celebrates Freedom Day on the 27^th April to mark the emancipation of the country and its people from apartheid. In 1994 on 27^th April the first democratic election was held in South Africa, this paved the way towards a new democracy and a new constitution for the country.

Remembering the mark that made a difference in 1994, Brand South Africa's Constitutional Awareness programme, in collaboration with Freedom Park, will host intergenerational dialogues, in order to inspire constitutionalism, tolerance and constructive expression #makeyourmark.

Ahead of Freedom Day on 27^th April 2018, Brand South Africa will encourage youth participation in the Freedom Day programme and other days of national significance to guide in constructing an intergenerational future for the country through the lessons of the past.

Brand South Africa is also driving dialogues on social media platform through its campaign - The Mark That Made a Difference #makeyourmark on the progress South Africa has made in the past 24 years.

Under the theme - "Our Freedom Charter, Constitution: The Bill of Rights, the fundamental rights of every South African"

How to thrive as a female #entrepreneur - married or single

The assumption is that, because married women – or women with partners – have more financial support and help with family and household responsibilities, the pressure and demands of starting a business are easier to manage.

Yet, married and single female entrepreneurs have different challenges and advantages. How they manage and leverage these will ultimately determine how successful they are in their careers, says Joanne van der Walt, Sage Foundation Programme Manager for Africa.

According to The Hidden Factors: SA Women in Business research report, carried out by the Sage Foundation and Living Facts, 70% of those who had their own businesses are married or living with someone and this may provide support, financially or otherwise, while 28% of those without a business said their family commitments didn't allow them to start their own companies.

Built-in infrastructure

"There are other possible reasons why women with partners may be more successful entrepreneurs. Juggling home and work life forces them to organise and prioritise and therefore achieve a better work-life balance. They're also likely to be better at compromising and communication – two essential business skills," says Van der Walt.

For Marylou Kneale, founder of Living Facts, women who have a supportive spouse or partner have a "built-in infrastructure" that they can rely on. "A supportive spouse or partner can provide emotional, financial, family, administrative and/or logistical support. Our research suggests that more women with partners/spouses are able to ride the ups and downs that come with having one's own business than those who are single, because of this support network."

A case for the single entrepreneur

Because of the massive demands that family places on their time and attention, married women might also feel guilty that they're not devoting enough time to their businesses or their families – and that's one area where single women have the upper hand (assuming, of course, that they're not single mothers).

"With more time on their hands, single women can focus exclusively on marketing and growing their businesses. They also have more time for social activities, which means they're often able to network more than married women or those with families. This allows them to make smart connections that could help to scale their businesses," says Van der Walt.

Although single women don't have the security of a second household income – and therefore have to be more frugal with their money and settle for beans on toast some nights – they do have more flexibility when it comes to taking risks because they don't have to worry about the impact that risk will have on loved ones if it doesn't go according to plan.

How to thrive as a female #entrepreneur - married or single

The assumption is that, because married women – or women with partners – have more financial support and help with family and household responsibilities, the pressure and demands of starting a business are easier to manage.

Yet, married and single female entrepreneurs have different challenges and advantages. How they manage and leverage these will ultimately determine how successful they are in their careers, says Joanne van der Walt, Sage Foundation Programme Manager for Africa.

According to The Hidden Factors: SA Women in Business research report, carried out by the Sage Foundation and Living Facts, 70% of those who had their own businesses are married or living with someone and this may provide support, financially or otherwise, while 28% of those without a business said their family commitments didn't allow them to start their own companies.

Built-in infrastructure

"There are other possible reasons why women with partners may be more successful entrepreneurs. Juggling home and work life forces them to organise and prioritise and therefore achieve a better work-life balance. They're also likely to be better at compromising and communication – two essential business skills," says Van der Walt.

For Marylou Kneale, founder of Living Facts, women who have a supportive spouse or partner have a "built-in infrastructure" that they can rely on. "A supportive spouse or partner can provide emotional, financial, family, administrative and/or logistical support. Our research suggests that more women with partners/spouses are able to ride the ups and downs that come with having one's own business than those who are single, because of this support network."

A case for the single entrepreneur

Because of the massive demands that family places on their time and attention, married women might also feel guilty that they're not devoting enough time to their businesses or their families – and that's one area where single women have the upper hand (assuming, of course, that they're not single mothers).

"With more time on their hands, single women can focus exclusively on marketing and growing their businesses. They also have more time for social activities, which means they're often able to network more than married women or those with families. This allows them to make smart connections that could help to scale their businesses," says Van der Walt.

Although single women don't have the security of a second household income – and therefore have to be more frugal with their money and settle for beans on toast some nights – they do have more flexibility when it comes to taking risks because they don't have to worry about the impact that risk will have on loved ones if it doesn't go according to plan.

#Pork industry tipped to suffer due to #listeriosis outbreak

A variety of ready-to-eat processed meats, mainly made from pork, have been recalled from supermarket shelves after being identified as the source of listeriosis disease outbreak.

Paul Makube, a senior agricultural economist at FNB Agri-Business, said while the lower prices were concerning for the industry, they were a blessing for consumers feeling the pinch of rising food costs, who were likely to settle for pork as a cheaper alternative.

Makube said this trend would probably continue over the short term.

"The pork industry unnecessarily suffered a severe blow following the recent outbreak of listeriosis, the loss to the value chain so far could exceed R1 billion," Makube said.

"Even though demand for processed and cold meats fell sharply due to the health and safety concerns from the listeriosis outbreak, pork farmers have now had to redirect the pigs for the fresh meat market thereby creating a surplus and in so doing, have further increased pressure on low prices."

He said another positive for consumers was the decrease in the cost of maize, a large component of animal feed.

Maize constitutes over 75 percent of livestock feed, hence its supply and prices have a major influence on the total cost to customers.

This is particularly the case in poultry and pork, as they are mainly produced under intensive feeding systems.

"South Africa now has a surplus in maize and the expected 2017/18 production is estimated at over 12,42 million tons," Makube said.

"Therefore, if maize prices remain flat they will have a major impact in sustaining the lower prices for consumers."

– African News Agency

Jesse Suntele joins #RhythmCity as #Suffocate's troublesome son

South African actor, model, rapper and presenter Jesse Suntele is set to join the word of Rhythm City, he will TX on the 7^th of May as Nqaba, Suffocate's son who was based in Ghana.
 
Nqaba is a suave, intelligent and good looking young man with a good head on his shoulders. He has clean and sober habits, but he occasionally goes out for a drink with friends or alone after a stressful day. Girls gravitate towards him like bees on honey and he knows it, but he is by no means a player. He simply loves the attention. Despite his charm and laid-back appearance, Nqaba is quick with his fists when provoked - he is, after all, Suffocate's son.

Suffo learns that things have not been all hunky-dory in Zothile's house since she revealed that Nqaba was Suffo's son. He allows Nqaba to live with him and Puleng, as long as he promises to stay out of trouble. But being Suffo's son, Nqaba can't avoid getting into trouble occasionally, especially because of his quick temper.
Catch Jesse Suntele on Rhythm City from the 7^th of May.  

#PSL, #SAFA and #SAPS call on Mzansi to identify and assist arrest the #hooligans - #HooligansMustFall #MosesMabhidaStadium

The South African Football Association (Safa) have called on the public to help police to identify the guilty parties that perpetrated violence at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday night.

Safa were the latest organisation to condemn the absolute chaos that occurred on Saturday night in Durban when Kaizer Chiefs lost 2-0 to Free State Stars in the Nedbank Cup semi-final.

PSL chairman Dr Irvin Khoza will host a press conference at 12.30pm on Monday to address the incident, in which 18 people were injured and considerable damage was done to the stadium and television cameras and sound equipment as fans invaded the pitch at the end of the match.

"Safa calls on members of the public to assist the South African Police Service (SAPS) with identifying the hooligans involved. They should be arrested and appropriately charged as soon as possible," the statement read.

"For far too long, perpetrators of violence at football matches have not been held accountable for their actions, and this needs to stop.

"The hooligans that caused chaos and disorder at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday must face the full might of the law.

"We would also want to take this opportunity to wish those injured during the mayhem on Saturday a speedy recovery."

Safa said that they will discuss the incident with the PSL and "government authorities".

"On our part as the football governing body, we will engage with the Premier Soccer League (PSL) and government authorities to get to the bottom of the matter, and to come up with lasting solutions to prevent such incidents from happening again.

"Events like this damage the brand of the sport, create a negative perspective and defeat the purposes of going to the football matches for entertainment.

"Safety and the protection of fans, players, match officials, the media, service providers and everyone involved with the game are of paramount importance and should be guaranteed.

Innovative technology for exhibition stands

2018 is proving to be the year of innovation for exhibition stands. With advancements in artificial intelligence, healthcare and automotive technologies launching the world into a new era of electronics thus far, Innovation Factory, an award-winning shop-fitting and exhibition stand design company, has implemented improvements of their own.

With an assortment of innovative technological aids, as listed below, Innovation Factory aims to ensure that their exhibition displays stand out from the crowd.

1. Interactive Apps

Interactive business apps are effective: they allow people to engage and learn about your products and services in a fun and exciting way. For example, someone who is interested in taking a look at your latest sports car might enjoy a game where they're able to customise and 'build' the car, discovering all the features as they play. Now, imagine the alternative: a 6-page handout with lots of technical jargon and a couple of static images. It's not much of a contest, and one of them can go in the bin.

By creating your own bespoke app, customers can interact with your brand content at their own pace and — perhaps most significantly — long after the event, on their smartphone. For added interaction and quirkiness, you can place QR codes around your stand for people to scan for extra nuggets of information about your products and services.

2. Augmented Reality

This impressive technology works by integrating computer-generated scenes with a live view of the real world for a 2D or 3D interactive experience. From making print come to life to allowing participants to zoom, turn and manipulate your product in real time, using AR can be a total game changer for how people engage with and understand your offering. Allowing your customers to explore your products with this real-time technology can help to create a truly memorable brand experience. One only has to look at phenomena like PokemonGO to see the viral potential of AR technology.

3. Robots

Robots will not only entertain and draw the prospects in, but they'll also act as a highly effective communication tool; answering questions, gathering data and even moving around the exhibition, encouraging people to visit the stand and interact with them.

4. 3D Printing

3D printing is a great way to draw prospects to your stand and give them something to remember you by. This relatively low cost piece of tech plays on the satisfaction people get from watching a process and seeing the end result — in this case a tangible object they can take home and keep. Easily printed versions of company logos or marketing materials make great gifts for visitors to your stand and will go a long way in terms of brand visibility.

5. Radio Frequency Identification Technologies that Capture Audience Data

RF technology can be used for tracking exhibition industry audiences. You can unobtrusively track attendance by simply placing a beacon at your session entrance. They can give real-time views on session attendance and duration, attendance at exhibition stands, exhibit floor visits, traffic patterns and event activities. This real-time accessibility allows for reports and metrics to be viewed while on-site. This gives event managers insight into attendee interests, thus generating overall event ROI and increased revenue opportunities. Taking advantage of cutting edge technology like IoT (Internet of things) beacons allows exhibitors to create rich and immersive experiences for their audiences in a completely unobtrusive way.

6. Charging Stations

Charging stations are strategic trade show accessories that will attract traffic, while also keeping potential clients at a booth space for an extended period of time. They offer the audience a service that is in high demand at trade shows. While attendees wait for their phones to charge, the sales staff has the opportunity to engage in meaningful selling conversations. A short attention span is common at trade shows. Therefore, charging stations are paramount to retaining the interest of booth visitors. This provides a mutually beneficial relationship for both the company and the audience.

7. Wearable Tech

If you're running a workshop, you could monitor to check when attendees heart rate drops and take that as a cue to spice things up a little with a more interactive event activity or event just asking everyone to get up and jump around a little.

Azania Mosaka thrilled by the opportunity of hosting #RealTalk

Azania Mosaka will be taking over Anele Mdoda's Steyn City studio couch to host the weekday talk show, while the regular host is on a break.

SABC3 says the Mdoda will taking some time off "to get some much-needed rest and time away from the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg with her family".

Mdoda will host 12 episodes starting next Tuesday, 17 April, until 27 April. Mosaka will return to screens on 30 April.

In an interview with SowetanLive,Mosaka said she jumped at the opportunity.

After a protracted hiatus from TV in favour of the radio mic, she said she was looking forward to getting back in front of the cameras after so many years.

"I haven't been on TV in a long time. Funnily enough, at the start of the year, one of the things lingering with me was that maybe it's time to get in there. I was open to it if it came along," she was quoted saying.

"So when [production house] Cheeky Media and the SABC gave me the thumbs-up, I was happy. I didn't realise how much I missed television as a medium. I wanted the immediate gratification that radio gave me, but I missed looking into the camera and doing my thing."

Mosaka promises to bring her personal flair to the show.

Real Talk with Anele airs weekdays on SABC3 from 6pm-7pm.

New clothing line launched in #Mzansi - #Njandin

Khathu Litshani is proud to announce the launch of his clothing line – Njandin.  The clothing line is aimed at bringing a fresh and exciting feel to the fashion industry, with its unique selection of clothes for both men and women.  The brands' authenticity is shown in every item as it effectively helps fashion lovers express themselves freely.  The South African-based brand is available for purchase via e-mail or phone calls.

Njandin will change the industry by bringing a whole new feel to everyday fashion by bringing comfort, versatility and uniqueness to fashion lovers.  The fashion industry is dynamic with several brands coming in and having to create a niche for themselves so that they can stand out from their competitors.

 Khathu uses the word Njandin in his comedy – on and off stage.  This is a word that most people frown upon but Khathu decided to take it and turn it something cool and relatable for the masses.  People associate the word with Khathu because he made it trendy and this is why he decided to use it.  The brand currently supplies caps, t-shirts and golf shirts but will soon be releasing a winter range.  Khathu says that he doesn't want to limit Njandin to clothing, he will also be branching out into other things such as accessories.

Njandin caters to everyone regardless of their gender or affordability.  People have been responding very well to the brand because of its creativity, affordability and innovation.  Khathu is a name that a lot of people are familiar with so it's easy for them to relate with anything that he does.

"As with everything I do, Njandin came naturally to me.  It is a part of who I am and plays a role in my everyday life.  This is an exciting journey and I can assure everyone that Njandin has a lot of exciting in store for them," says Khathu.

To purchase a Njandin item: 

Call: 062 522 3181

Whatsapp: 081 571 8433

E-mail to bookings@djkhathu.com

Exciting times lie ahead for Erasmus and his #Springboks

SA Rugby director of rugby Rassie Erasmus says the success of the June Tests will depend on how the players "follow through on what was agreed upon at the camps" once they return to their respective franchises.

The second of three Springbok alignment camps concluded in Vanderbijlpark on Wednesday, with a final one planned for Durban from 22-25 April. According to SA Rugby, the aim of these camps is to accelerate preparations for the upcoming international season.

A group of 22 Stormers and Lions players attended the second camp over the past four days at the Riverside Resort. Several coaching staff members of the Lions and Stormers were also at the camp.

These coaches were Lions head coach Swys de Bruin and conditioning coach Ivan van Rooyen, as well as Stormers assistant coaches Russell Winter and Paul Treu and conditioning coach Steph du Toit.

Speaking after the conclusion of the second camp, Erasmus said that all parties involved will have a "clear picture" of their plans for the Tests against Wales and England.

"We were able to work with a combined total of 34 players from three different franchises during the first two camps," said Erasmus. "I am sure that after the final camp, we would have covered a lot of groundwork with most of the players we have in mind for the June internationals.

"I want to reiterate that the success of the June Tests will be determined by how the Springbok coaching staff and the players follow through on what was agreed upon at the camps when the players are back at their franchise teams.

"The sessions are very intense and we are confident that everyone - players, coaching staff and the various franchise team representatives who sat in during all the sessions - will all be aligned and have a clear picture of our plans for Wales and England after these camps."

Twelve Bulls players attended the first camp at the same venue. The sessions during these camps don't entail any on-field activities.

The Boks will kick off their international campaign against Wales in Washington DC on 2 June, before returning to South Africa to host England in three Tests.

The series-opener against England will take place at Ellis Park on 9 June, with the second Test hosted in Bloemfontein on 16 June. The series will conclude at Newlands on 23 June.

#CAPETOWN SET TO HOST WORLD'S PREMIERE #CLIMATECHANGE ADAPTATION CONFERENCE

Cape Town, a city still enduring the effects of its worst drought in over a century, is gearing up to host the world's premiere conference on climate change adaptation.
 
Under the theme, "Dialogues for Solutions", Adaptation Futures 2018 will bring together over 1000 researchers, policymakers, businesspeople, NGO representatives and international funders from over 80 countries to share their latest climate adaptationresearch, discuss how cities, countries and communities can best adapt to climate change, and forge new policies and partnerships.
 
The African Climate and Development Initiative (ACDI), the University of Cape Town's "active response to the twin challenges of climate change and sustainable development" is the main conference organiser.
 
"I'm really excited to see the mix of new research, practical experience and critical reflection on progress to date that will be covered during the conference," says ACDI director and chairperson of the conference steering committee Mark New. "Given the impacts of climate and weather on society that we've seen in the last couple of years, there is no better time and place for Adaptation Futures 2018 to be taking place."
 
This is the first time in its 10-year history that Adaptation Futures will be taking place in Africa, among the regions that will be hardest hit by climate change, and the organisers are making every effort to foreground developing country issues, with a particular focus on Africa.

How to refresh your #marriage

Date your spouse 

Family Life reports that it's important couples don't lose that loving feeling they had at the beginning of the relationship. Flirt with one another! Tell your husband that he still makes you blush, or you can't get enough of his charming personality. As a couple, you should romance one another at every opportunity and work at keeping the butterflies flapping, even after an argument.

Develop meaningful communication

Healthy communication is the bedrock of any relationship. Everyone communicates differently; learn your partner's  communication style and language of love. You should also let your spouse in and constantly allow them to get to know you better.  Also, try to be a good listener. Listen to your spouse's point of view and try to comprehend what exactly they're trying to get across, rather than concentrating on formulating a response.

Make sex a priority

The importance of sex in an intimate relationship can't be underestimated and it is each spouse's responsibility to make sure the sex is great. Always try to fulfill your spouses needs before your own, reports Family Life. In addition, simple things like holding hands in public and stealing discreet kisses when you are around each other will do wonders for your sex life. Also, try to be adventurous and spontaneous – have sex in another room, or – if you're looking for an even more exciting thrill – take your lovemaking outside.

Apologise and forgive 

Harbouring resentment is harmful to the growth of your relationship. If you feel you have been wronged, but you and your partner have decided to resolve the issues and rebuild trust, make a conscious effort not to hold onto baggage. Let go of any resentment, bitterness or pain. Family Life reports that you should take Paul's words to heart: "Do not let the sun go down on your wrath." (Ephesians 4:26).

If your words or actions have hurt your partner, then you need to admit you were wrong and ask for forgiveness, according to Church Leaders.

Serve your partner 

To experience oneness, you must give up your will for the will of another – in other words, you must put your partner's needs before your own. If you do this, your needs won't go unmet. Make the first move and watch as your spouse reciprocates, reports Family Life.

Guess what? The #Rooibos experience is back!

Young and old can enjoy the Rooibos Experience at the popular Root44 Market in Stellenbosch on the 28th and 29th of April, which promises to be bigger and better than last year's festival.

On the menu is Audacia's "no sulphites or preservatives added" red wine, created by using Rooibos and Honeybush toasted wood chips, Stellenbrau's Rooibos-blended lager, the Woodstock Gin Company's Buchu and Rooibos-infused gin and Rooibos tea kombucha – a natural tea fermentation, which has been perfected by Brew Kombucha. Larry Berger will also be hosting several masterclasses to promote his award-winning aperitif, the Spirit of Rooibos, which was first distilled in a steel water geyser. Berger thought it an ideal still to initially experiment with given his trade as a plumber…

Non-alcoholic beverages, such as Rooibos smoothies, Uber Flavour Brews – made from Rooibos and 100% fresh fruit juice and Theonista's top-quality Rooibos iced teas promise to be a hit among health-conscious visitors. Also on offer is a range of sugar-free, organic and unsulphured dried fruit and vegetables that have been rehydrated in Rooibos tea using an innovative process that has been patented by RedBushed Fruit, while meat-lovers are sure to salivate over Bay Biltong's range of Rooibos flavoured cured meats.

Must-try beauty products include the popular ranges from Annique and African Extracts, as well as the all-natural skincare products, balms, soaps and foam baths from Red Cedar. Sanguru's detox blend, called, Teatox, is also recommended for those suffering from bloatedness, gout and constipation. It's also been touted as a great weight-loss product and includes only indigenous, organically grown hand-harvested Rooibos and other Karoo herbs.

The Nuwe Graskoue Trappers, who belong to a group of "Riel" dancers from Wupperthal, will this year again perform various dances that aptly reflect the culture and traditions of the people who come from the Cederberg region. See them in action on Sunday, 29 April at 1pm. A wide variety of loose leaf teas, beautiful teapots and accessories will also be for sale by The Tea Merchant.

Visitors to the Rooibos Experience at Root44 are encouraged to arrive early to make the most of the day as the venue can only accommodate 4 000 people at any given time. Doors open from 09h00 to 16h00 and entry is free.

For further information about the Rooibos Experience, visitwww.sarooibos.co.za or the SARC Facebook page: www.facebook.com/rooiboscouncil/ for updates.

Winnie Madikizela-Mandela's legacy lives on

Following her passing at age 81 in a Johannesburg hospital on Easter Sunday, Brand South Africa highlights the important role that heroine of freedom, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, played in helping South Africa transition peacefully from apartheid to a stable democracy in 1994.

Madikizela-Mandela's courage to speak her truth and dedicate her life towards fulfilling a vision of an equitable, prosperous, better future for South Africa is what made her a truly powerful icon of freedom. 

A true patriot, Madikizela-Mandela faced untold hardships during the apartheid years, yet she confronted each with an inner strength and fortitude. It is her courage and bravery as well as fearless commitment to fulfilling the dream of economic and political freedom which will remain her ultimate legacy. 

"Her spirit, her passion…her courage, her wilfulness: I felt all of these things the moment I saw her," said former South African President Nelson Mandela of the woman he would later marry.

Her dedication to the resistance movement meant she had to push many of her personal goals aside. The first black professional social worker in South Africa, Madikizela-Mandela had been married to Mandela for just a few years, when he was sentenced to life in prison in 1962. Like many black women of her generation, she was forced to become a single mother to her two small daughters and was thrust into the limelight as a 'political widow'. 

"We were hardly a year together when history deprived me of you," she wrote in a letter to Mandela while he was in prison in 1970, published in her autobiography 491 Days, Prisoner Number 1323/69.

Madikizela-Mandela took up the challenge of continuing to resist the racism and sexism that defined her generation with a maturity beyond her years.  It was thanks largely to her, that international attention remained focused on the story of Nelson Mandela and the fight against Apartheid while he served out his prison sentence.

"Your formidable shadow which eclipsed me left me naked and exposed to the bitter world of a young 'political widow'. I knew this was a crown of thorns for me but I also knew I said, 'I Do' for better or worse. In marrying you I was marrying the struggle of my people," she wrote to Mandela in 1977, in a letter also published in her autobiography.

It was when she was arrested by the apartheid police and taken away from her two daughters, then aged just nine and ten years old, that she was forced to bear the true weight of personal sacrifice for her people. She spent 491 days in detention, much of this in solitary confinement under unimaginably brutal conditions.  Two trials later, she was finally released. 

"She refused to be bowed by the imprisonment of her husband, the perpetual harassment of her family by security forces, detentions, bannings and banishment. Her courageous defiance was deeply inspirational to me, and to generations of activists," noted ArchbishopDesmond Tutu, Nobel laureate after her passing.

Former deputy chief justice Dikgang Moseneke, once part of the legal team who defended Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, said she had an "incredible ability to be able to take on injustice and soak up pain in a way that is not immediately describable."

Madikizela-Mandela traded what could have been a simple life of motherhood and marriage for an active political life.  Instead, she became fondly known as the "Mother of the Nation", serving as a mentor and mother to many of South Africa's young activists, including Fikile Mbalula, current chair of the ANC's subcommittee on elections and Malusi Gigaba, now Minister of Home Affairs, both of whom who lived with Madikizela-Mandela as young members of the party's Youth League.  

"Mam' Winnie lost her innocence because of a struggle she actually didn't choose, the struggle entrusted upon her by the husband she chose and the people she identified with - the vulnerable people who were discriminated because of apartheid," said Sello Hatang, CEO of the Nelson Mandela Foundation in tribute to her.

Actress Terry Pheto who played Madikizela-Mandela in the BET drama Madiba, said she grew up looking up to Winnie, because her mother did as well.  "I was very aware of her journey, her struggles and her fights. Because of that, it was important for me to see this role as I've always seen her; an important and necessary figure in our time," Pheto said in an interview in 2017 with HuffPost.

Age: 31, Position: Cabinet Minister. Meet Bogolo Kenewendo - #Botswana's new Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry

Two years after becoming Botswana's youngest MP, 31 year-old Bogolo Kenewendo has been appointed Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry.

Born in the Motopi village in Boteti, it was clear early on that Kenewendo was destined for big things.

In 2009, she was selected as one of two youth delegates to represent Botswana at the United Nations General Assembly, where she was nominated to deliver the statement of African youth to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon.

Two years later, she was invited to attend former First Lady Michelle Obama's Young African Leaders Initiative for young women leaders.

Inspired by her encounter and driven by a passion for youth development and women empowerment, Kenewendo co-founded Molaya Kgosi – a women leadership and mentorship programme that has been rolled out across several schools across Botswana.

"My path has kept changing as my life changes and as I see new opportunities, but the consistent undertone is my desire to impact development through policy in one office or the other," she said in an interview with This is Africa.

"I am passionate about youth and women empowerment. There is so much more we can accomplish by ensuring that we invest in these resources. There is also a need for economic development, especially through private-sector growth."

Kenewendo holds a Masters in International Economics from the University of Sussex in the UK, which she attained as a recipient of the prestigious Chevening Scholarship in 2012.

Prior to becoming an MP, Kenewendo worked as a trade economist in Ghana's Department of Trade and Industry for several years, with a special focus on macro-economic policy, public debt management, trade policy, export development and trade and investment policy.

Over the years, Kenewendo has been recognised multiple times for her resolve to build young leaders in her country.

In 2012, she was awarded the 10 Outstanding Young Persons award by the Junior Chamber International Botswana, while in 2016, she received the Botswana Change Makers Award in the business and leadership category.

In the same year, she walked away with the Formidable Woman Award and was honoured by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office International Leaders Programme.

You can now stream videos with #Apple music

Subscribers can expect to see a lot more of their favourite artists in this platform, as Apple Music is now home to the best music video-watching experience available anywhere.

Fans can enjoy new and exclusive music video playlists and never-seen-before – all completely ad-free.

The platform will also regularly debut new, exclusive music videos from superstars and rising alike as a home to one of the most extensive music video catalogues available.

READ MORE: Apple sales reach new records

Videos premiering exclusively on Apple Music include A Tribe Called Quest's The Space Program, Beck's Colors, Kylie Minogue's Stop Me From Falling, Sabrina Carpenter and Jonas Blue's Alien and a live performance music video of Evergreenfrom emerging artist YEBBA.

The platform promises to continue its tradition of delivering expertly-curated experiences with all-new, exclusive music video playlists showcasing decades of hits from popular genres and celebrated artists.

Video playlists available now include Today's Video Hits, The A-list pop videos and Classic Dance Moves.

READ MORE: Is Apple slowly losing its shine?

Subscribers can also build their own music video playlists, add their favourites to their library and download for offline viewing.

The new music video experience is available on iOS, Android and Apple TV.

Trevor Noah on path to empowering youth to excel

South Africa-born comedian Trevor Noah on Wednesday launched his own foundation focusing on equipping orphans and vulnerable youth with the education, life skills, and social capital necessary to pursue further opportunities upon graduating high school.

Noah, the host of The Daily Show in America, said that he was inspired by advice from South-African born Hollywood actress Charlize Theron to "believe in drops in the bucket" when setting up a foundation to benefit people facing complex challenges.

"The journey and goal is the start a programme, and better understand how to help schools move forwards. Then, we want to help these schools become self-sufficient. Each experience will inform the next. Today is only the beginning," Noah said.

"We are going to look for people who are already pushing, and we are going to help them push. Many hands can make light work. Fundamentally, the foundation is going to bridge the gap between learners and the education they deserve."

The Trevor Noah Foundation, which was launched at New Nation School in Johannesburg, aims to invest in three priority areas: psycho-social support, skills development, and career guidance. 

You asked for it and guess what.... #BeingBonang is back by public demand

It seems the people have spoken and they want to see more of "your girl B".

"Back by popular demand. There is going to be lots of laughs and lots of quatables. This season is a lot more international, and you'll get to meet a lot more people," Bonang Matheba said in an interview withChannel24. 

Show favourite Pinky Girl is set to receive more airplay this season, with cameras delving deeper into her life, while documenting Bonang's journey as a single woman.

News of the series renewal came as a surprise after it was announced in September last year that the show wouldn't be returning for a second season, following poor ratings.

Stats released by the Broadcast Research Council showed that Being Bonong failed to make a list of the top 30 most-watched shows on DStv.

After three episodes, the show had garnered less than the 327 831 viewers, with more people tuning in to watch Mzansi Magic's telenovela Isithembiso instead.

In an interview with TimesLive, Olwethu Mlotshwa defended the show's ratings, partly attributing the low viewership numbers to the show's time slot.

"From the numbers we have so far, Bonang's show is doing very well, especially since it's in such a tough time slot," he said in August last year.

Mlotshwa, who directs Somizi Mhlongo's show Living the Life with Somizi, was seconded to co-direct and produce Being Bonang mid-season in an attempt to beef up viewer numbers.

"I've watched the reaction to the show closely and I think the problem is that people have unrealistic expectations. They think it will be the same Bonang they saw on Live Amp, but Bonang is older and she is different."

Though critics of the show have called it boring, but Mlotshwa said viewers need to understand how fiercely protective Bonang needs to be over her personal brand and so you won't see her behaving badly.

"This reality show is different to other reality show, including those I have worked on before. Bonang is not a wild, ratchet person whose life is filled with drama. She has a brand to uphold and she also has to be true to herself. I don't think people understand that," he said.

Being Bonang returns on 4 May.  

Here is what to expect at the #Lusito land festival

A gigantic wine barrel marquee will be part of the Portuguese culture at this year's Lusito Land Festival to be held at Cayman Road in Alewynspoort, Johannesburg South. The barrel marquee was custom-made for the event.

The festival will take place from 26 April to 6 May 2018, with a two-day break on 2nd & 3rd May.

The wine-barrel will be the place to go to find out a little more about Portugal and its distinctive culture and way of life. Two ceramics producers will be amongst the exhibitors, one of which produces the traditional blue tiles that are used extensively throughout Portugal.

An exhibition highlighting the Portuguese language will be hosted by the Camões Institute, which was established in 1992 to promote Portuguese language and culture around the world.

In addition, Portuguese castanhas assadas (chestnuts), a Portuguese classic will be available in the marquee. "Typically roasted on open flames, castanhas assadas are a traditional Portuguese snack, consumed in large quantities during the festival celebrations or on a cold winter's days. In the streets of Portugal, these delicious nibbles come straight from the brazier and are usually served in a newspaper cone," explains Contente.

In addition to activities in the wine-barrel marquee, visitors to the festival will be able to catch top South artists such as AKA, Sketchy Bongo, The Parlotones, Mi Casa, Bobby van Jaarsveld, Snotkop, Matthew Mole, Lady Zamar, GoodLuck, Shekhinah and Dr Victor & The Rasta Rebels.

Contente says more artists have been added to the line-up to keep festival goers entertained. "Visitors to the Lusito Land Festival can also look forward to great acts such as Denim, 1^st Project, Puppetsula, Choppa, Garth Taylor, Rubber Duc and Ballyhoo."

Denim is a successful Afro pop band with several hits to its name. The band will be at the festival, keeping audiences captivated with its professional and slick act.

1st Project will also be at the festival to enthral audiences with its vigorous percussion music. The band has played over 2 000 shows, toured in more than 25 countries, and been featured in hundreds of media spots worldwide, positioning themselves as South Africa's biggest drumming act.

Master puppeteer, Jabu Simango, will also bring his unique and highly entertaining show, Puppetsela, to the Lusito Land Festival. What started as a part-time hobby featuring two marionettes is now a sought-after act with several marionettes.

Multi-instrumentalist and SAMA nominated artist, Garth Taylor will also take to the stage at the Lusito Land Festival. He is most renowned for being a chart-topping singer-songwriter and recording artist. He was personally handpicked by Sir Richard Branson to entertain at his son's wedding in 2013.

And then there's Rubber Duc, a fresh South African four-piece band made up of Nick Jordaan, Brendan Campbell, Sheldon Sham and Amiel Gopal. The DUC sound is fun and authentic, with cheerful, catchy melodies and clever lyrics that are sure to get audiences grooving.

Remember that 1981 mega-hit Man on the Moon? The band responsible for it, Ballyhoo, is a Lusito Land favourite and will be returning once again this year to show South Africans just how popular its music is.

With so much great entertainment and good food on offer at the festival, make sure you don't miss out. Tickets are available at Computicket -

https://online.computicket.com/web/event/lusito_land_festival/1200078314/0/85568200

 

Ticket pricing

Adults and teens: R130

Kids between six and 12 years: R50

Pensioners: R50

Kids under-five: Free

#ProductReview : The #LandRover phone is just a master piece

Land Rover and Bullitt Group have unveiled details of the Land Rover Explore Outdoor Phone, designed for people who live for adventure and need a phone that can survive whatever it's put through.

The Land Rover Explore features a powerful 4 000mAh battery that supports two days of typical use, or a full day of activities, with constant GPS navigation mapping activated on the 5" HD display.

Battery life can also be doubled by adding the included Adventure Pack while on the go. It can replace the need for a separate GPS device with its GPS patch antenna that improves the reliability and accuracy. It also adds an additional 3 600mAh of battery power and premium topographic mapping with Skyline augmented reality, courtesy of ViewRanger.

Other hardware packs available include a 4 370mAh additional battery and a universal bike mount, all designed to enhance any adventure by enabling owners to go further and stay out for longer.

The phone is designed in close collaboration with Land Rover and takes subtle design cues from the unbeatably capable and versatile Land Rover Discovery.

Taking inspiration from the front grille design through to the headlamp architecture and even the knurled finish of the interior dials, it elegantly reflects the essence of the Land Rover brand. It's a durable smartphone in a stylish design that is suitable for the office or enjoying the great outdoors.

Joe Sinclair, Director of Branded Goods and Licensing for Jaguar Land Rover, said: "We are excited to be collaborating with Bullitt Group to create the smartphone that we'd all like to own. A perfect combination of design and functionality that embodies the Land Rover DNA and enables customers to be outdoors for longer, with the confidence to go further."

The CEO of Bullitt Group, global mobile licensee for Land Rover, Peter Stephens, said the Land Rover Explore embodies everything we know to create a device perfectly suited to any outdoor activity, while retaining a sleek design.

"Building on our leadership in the rugged mobile market, we see the growing customer dissatisfaction with the fragility of their mobile phone and the poor battery life, in particular, preventing them from using their mobile for key parts of their day to day life," said Stephens.

The phone will be available for pre-order in South Africa from April this year.

A timeline of #WinnieMandela's life

• 1955: After obtaining a degree in social work, Madikizela-Mandela turns down an American scholarship for a job as the first qualified black social worker at Baragwanath Hospital.

• 1957: She meets Nelson Mandela during the Treason Trial, marrying him the following year in the Transkei and moving to his small Soweto house.

• 1961: The Treason trialists are all acquitted, allowing the Mandela family (which now includes toddlers Zenani and Zindzi) a semblance of normal life for eight months.

• 1962: Mandela is captured near Howick and arrested. He's later sentenced to life in prison in 1964 at the conclusion of the Rivonia Trial. Madikizela-Mandela, meanwhile, is subjected to a run of banning orders, preventing her from working and socialising. She's restricted to Orlando, Soweto and sends her daughters to boarding school in Swaziland.

• 1969: Madikizela-Mandela is detained under the Terrorism Act and placed in solitary confinement for 17 months. In 1970, she's placed under house arrest, an order she flouts repeatedly.

• 1976: During the youth uprisings, she establishes the Black Women's Federation and Black Parents' Association, both aligned to the black consciousness movement. As a result, she's detained in 1977 under the Internal Security Act and banished to Brandfort in the (then) Orange Free State, where she sets up a crèche and clinic with Dr Abu Baker Asvat.

• 1986: Madikizela-Mandela returns home to Soweto shortly after making her infamous Munsieville speech, in which she declares: "Together, hand in hand, with our boxes of matches and our necklaces, we shall liberate this country." The conduct of members of the Mandela United Football Club, young men who acted as her bodyguards, causes some anti-apartheid groups to distance themselves from her.

• 1990: Mandela is released from prison, with Madikizela-Mandela beaming at his side.

• 1991: Madikizela-Mandela is elected to the ANC's National Executive Committee (NEC) after its unbanning. She's also found guilty of kidnapping youth activist Stompie Seipei and sentenced to six years in jail (reduced to a fine of R15 000 on appeal).

• 1992: After resigning her ANC positions, she makes a surprising comeback as President of the ANC Women's League (ANCWL). She separates from Mandela.

• 1994: She's appointed Deputy Minister of Arts, Culture, Science & Technology, but is dismissed the following year by President Mandela for allegations of financial mismanagement.

• 1996: Her divorce from Mandela is finalised.

• 2003: She's found guilty of 43 counts of fraud and 25 of theft. An appeal judge at the Pretoria Supreme Court overturns the theft conviction, but upholds the fraud charge, handing her a three-and-a-half-year suspended sentence. She also resigns as President of the ANCWL.

• 2007: She's elected a member of the ANC's NEC in Polokwane.

• 2013: She's portrayed in the film,Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, by British actress Naomie Harris.

• 2016: Madikizela-Mandela celebrates her 80th birthday at a gala fit for a queen at Cape Town's Mount Nelson Hotel with family, friends and colleagues including Julius Malema and President Cyril Ramaphosa.

• January 2018: Madikizela-Mandela is awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in recognition of her fight against apartheid by Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda.

• April 2018: Madikizela-Mandela passes away in Johannesburg