The fifth season of Big Brother Mzansi has kicked off to a scorching start. Here’s all you need to know.

‘BIG BROTHER MZANSI’ SEASON FIVE

Smash Afrika is the new host of Big Brother Mzansi season five. From the moment he stepped onto the stage, Smash brought an undeniable energy that set the tone for what promises to be a season like no other.

Viewers were also introduced to the first set of 20 hopefuls, who are all vying for their chance to claim the superstardom that only Biggie can provide. But as we all know, Biggie loves a good twist. In a surprising turn of events, Biggie announced that four more housemates would be joining the game.

The additional housemates were selected in a thrilling housemate decider game led by Bonnie Bee, who emerged as the central leader of the game. So, who are the housemates?

WHO ARE THE HOUSEMATES?

1. Abobo (Abongile Salli) – (30) Educator, actor and football enthusiast from Khayelitsha, Cape Town. “I firmly believe that if you truly desire something, you can ultimately achieve it.”
2. Mandy Hagan (Amanda Makhathini) – (25) A Jo’burg supermum who loves dancing, singing and all things beauty. “I need to grow and prove that I’m capable of achieving anything I put my mind to.
3. Ezra (Abongile Mhambi) – (27) A farmer and gym enthusiast from Butterworth, East London who is always proactive. He loves sports, animals, hunting, cooking, and baking. “Knowing a little about many things can always help.”
4. Sweet Guluva (Akhonamathemba Mbele) – (23) A student, upcoming actor, model, artist, football player, and barber from Cape Town. “I am a bubbly human and very open-minded. I am a person of value and respect.”
5. Ash-ley Ogle (Ash-ley Ogle) – (26) A lover of Christ filled with enthusiasm and a passion for fashion, from Durban. “The sky is too close to earth to be my limit. However, humility will always seize the day.”
6. Beekay (Bokang Chephetsa) – (23) A cable official from Qwaqwa with a passion for marketing, fashion, events management, and problem-solving. “I believe life is about creating unforgettable memories! I thrive in competitive environments and love pushing my limits, whether it’s conquering a mountain or mastering a new role.”
7. Bonni Bee (Bongiwe Booi) – (27) A verbal expressionist from Johannesburg who loves cooking and is a people’s person.  “Depending on the situation I’m an introvert but by nature I’m an extrovert.”
8. Kay B (Florence Mphirime) – (22) A final year education student from Bloemfontein and CEO of a training academy for aspiring models and actors who loves cooking and going out. “I am a model coach and a freelance professional model.”
9. Nate (Fortunate Setwaba) – (25) A medical orthotist by profession, Queer black woman, makeup artist, entrepreneur and a digital content creator. She is essentially a baddie with brains from Johannesburg. “I consider myself very funny, I like dark humour and practically bathe in it.”
10. Savage (Hassaan Rigney) – (29) International fitness director on a cruise ship and currently one of the best top 5 fitness directors across 200 cruise ships worldwide, from Johannesburg. “Anything is possible when you humble yourself, have a strong mindset, stay positive, and include fun in everything you do.”
11. Jojo (Karabo Sejojo) – (22) A fun, dramatic, moody, and energetic woman from Bloemfontein who loves reading, editing videos, and trading. “JoJo is a Pastor’s kid, so being around different personalities is no challenge.”
12. Luzuko (Luzuko Mashalaba)– (26) A Johannesburg-based avid sports enthusiast, reader of literature who loves debating and watching movies and series. “I like encountering and engaging with people because I believe there’s a lot we can learn from each other rather than being isolated.”
13. Mata (Mathapelo Mashila) – (27) popularly known as Rainbow, she is an artist from Vaal who enjoys brainteasers and sporty activities. “Mata is fearless, strong-willed, adventurous, caring, smart and a fun young woman.”
14. Melino (Mmelesi Mothei) – (33) Super extroverted guy from Soweto who loves hiking, discovering new music, and travelling.  “Very adventurous, very passionate I’m shy at times. I’m [an] oxymoron at times. I like being extra.”
15. Gugu (Nokulunga Ndabezitha) – (34) From Johannesburg, loves creating looks for funeral homes (corpses), writing stories, being a corporate pitbull, and restaurant hopping. “I believe that the Big Brother universe is the only platform that can let me be me. I would like to show the world more about Gugu.”
16. Philile (Philile Nzama) – (31) A Zulu maiden from Durban, who has an identical twin sister. She loves reading, participating in sports, and partying. “My bright and beautiful smile can light up any room and one could say it’s my signature.”
17. Muzi-TheMbuzi (Muziomhle Mdluli) – (29) A bright and fun personality from Johannesburg who loves photography. “I’m a young talented individual who wants to see himself do well in life.”
18. Nsuku (Nsuku Mabunda) – (29) From Johannesburg, is currently pursuing a second advanced diploma with a background in modelling and acting, also loves hanging out with friends. “My love for the truth drives me to speak honestly, even when it may be uncomfortable for others.”
19. Sipha Lee (Sphamandla Mthembu) – (29) Fun and charming, a die-hard Man United fan and grassroots football coach from Johannesburg. “I love learning new things, be it a language or a culture. Oh yes, and I have a great sense of humour, haha.”
20. Mshini (Siphesihle Lekwadu) – (23) Tutor by profession. The “go-to ball of energy” who loves football and the spotlight, from Johannesburg. “I bring my A game to everything I do and thrive on trying new and turning ordinary into extraordinary.”
21. Siphesihle (Siphesihle Mabaso) – (28) A financial advisor from Secunda who enjoys modelling, singing and DJing. She is a go-getter with a silver tongue and truly embraces the phrase “Don’t limit yourself”.
22. Swiss (Siyabonga Mlangeni) – (28) Current cyber security student from Pietermaritzburg who loves coaching primary school basketball, camping, and being an MC. “I know I’m very capable of entertaining and bringing excitement to people, I know I’m destined for more than my current life right now.”
23. Tyrone (Tyrone Willard) – (26) A charismatic and vibrant multilingual sensation from Johannesburg who loves going to art galleries and museums and sleeping some days. “With pride and confidence, I carry myself with an irresistible charm, making everyone feel welcome and included.”
24. Uyanda (Uyanda Hlangabezo) – (23) A pedagogical practitioner from Gqeberha who loves going out. “I am a man with a positive aura, I’m fun, entertaining, and honest. I believe I have all that it takes to win the show.”

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema says he is not scared of uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party leader Jacob Zuma and would fight him with ease.

The MK Party has been “poaching” prominent EFF leaders, including co-founder Floyd Shivambu – who has since been appointed as secretary-general.

JULIUS MALEMA READY TO FIGHT JACOB ZUMA

A number of EFF members, including former public protector advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane, Zuma ally Mzwanele Manyi, and most recently advocate Dali Mpofu, have ditched the Red Berets and joined Zuma’s party.

Following Mpofu’s departure, Malema said he is expecting two more “favourites” to leave the EFF and join the MK Party.

Speaking on his party’s podcast, Malema said he can’t be threatened by Zuma and that this is not the first time their relationship is the way it is at the moment.

“I defeated Zuma. He thought he buried me when he expelled me from ANC for comparing him to Thabo Mbeki, for saying there is a regime change which happened in Botswana now. I was guilty for that. I was expelled from ANC by Zuma and Ramaphosa was used as an instrument,” he said.

“Jacob Zuma is inviting me back to fight with him and I’ll do it, I’ll do it with ease. I’m not scared of Zuma or all of his people who are working with him. There’s no way anyone is going to threaten the existence of the EFF and that person becomes a friend. It would be a lie and we would be lying to ourselves,” he added.

RED BERETS TO HOLD ELECTIVE CONFERENCE

Meanwhile, the EFF will hold its National People’s Assembly in December where the party will elect new leadership and review some of its policies.

Earlier this year Malema told SABC News that he is absolutely available for a third term.

He also acknowledged that it is up to the delegates whether he comes back from the conference as leader or not.

Notably, since the party was launched 11 years ago, Malema and his former deputy Shivambu were the only two who retained their positions. It is not yet clear if anyone will contest Malema.

SASSA Children’s Grants for February 2025 (three in total) are controlled by the South African Social Security Agency. Each month, billions in taxpayer money is set aside by the Department of Social Development (DSD) with the goal of assisting financially distressed families with minors in South Africa.

For anyone who is unfamiliar with how SASSA Children’s Grants for February 2025 work, there are currently three different government grants offered. But keep in mind that only one parent (if married) may claim a grant for a child. Plus, not all of them may be applicable to your child. With that said, let’s explore the latest happenings in SASSA Children’s Grants for February 2025 …

SASSA CHILDREN’S GRANTS FOR FEBRUARY 2025

At last count, SASSA explained that approximately 13-million parents receive R530 SASSA Child Support each month. This stipend is the highest of any grant in South Africa, and it pays more and goes to more people than even R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD). As a result, it is a rare feather in South Africa’s cap, as far as social welfare goes on the African continent

Nowhere else can a struggling parent put their newborn onto SASSA Children’s grants for February 2025 and let it run all the way to their 18th birthday. If a parent was to do so, that child would receive approximately R135 480 in support from the South African government. Keep in mind this (conservatively) factors in estimated grant increases of 5% per annum, which we believe will next take place in April 2025.

CHILD-SUPPORT APPLICATIONS

Nevertheless, SASSA still believes more can be done for young mothers with newborns. As a result, the agency made an urgent call last year for any mothers with newborns to urgently apply for a SASSA Child Support as soon as possible after birth. This will also ensure parents register their newborns with the Department of Home Affairs early.

Critical to gaining access to SASSA Children’s Grants for February 2025 is registering the birth with the Department of Home Affairs eHome. Many parents are not getting their newborn’s unabridged birth certificate and identification documents early enough, says the agency. And therefore not making themselves eligible for SASSA child support until such time.

HOW DO YOU QUALIFY?

However, when it comes to SASSA Children’s Grants for February 2025, three stipends will be paid on Thursday 6 February 2025. As mentioned, besides SASSA Child Support, there’s Foster Child and Childcare Dependency. To qualify you must pass the following means test for each:

• Earn less than R8 800 per month if you’re married (R105 600 annually).
• Earn less than R4 400 per month if you’re single (R52 800 annually).

Of course, you child must be under the age of 18. Also note that applications take up to three months to be processed, however, you will be back-paid to the date of application if successful.

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO APPLY?

After securing ID documents from Home Affairs, you can visit the SASSA service portal to make an appointment online. Do so before you visit a SASSA branch in-person and de sure to bring the following documents with you:

• Valid identity documents of both the applicant (child) and spouse (if married).
• Proof of marital status (marriage, birth or death certificate of your spouse).
• Official birth certificate and ID of the child you’re applying for support for.
• Proof of income (of both you and your spouse).
• An approved three-month bank statement (no more than three-months old).
• Proof of address (a utility statement with your name on it that’s not more the three-months old).

CARE DEPENDENCY AND FOSTER CHILD

SASSA Children’s Grants for February 2025 also cater for mentally or physically disabled children and foster children. These do require additional paperwork though. A child must be declared disabled by a government-appointed doctor. Likewise, you are only eligible for the SASSA Foster Child grant if you are the rightful, court-appointed foster parent in accordance with the South African Child Care Act.

• R2 190 is paid for Childcare Dependency.
• R1 190 is paid for Foster Child.

The remaining grant dates till the next projected increase in April 2025 are:

• Thursday 6 February 2025.
• Thursday 6 March 2025.

Contact SASSA directly here:

• SASSA Toll-Free Call: 0800 60 10 11
• SASSA Head Office: 012 400 2322
• Email SASSA: grantenquiries@sassa.gov.za
• Or email: president@presidency.gov.za

The police and defence ministers, Senzo Mchunu and Angie Motshekga respectively, are expected to visit North West where over 4000 illegal miners are reportedly underground in the Orkney and Stilfontein mine shafts.

SAPS and SANDF members intensified Operation Vala Umgodi by blocking all entry and exit points in abandoned mines in North West that were used to deliver food, water and other necessities to the zama zamas. To date, over 1000 illegal miners have been arrested.

In November 2023, President Cyril Ramaphosa deployed the SANDF to support the SAPS and enhance public safety following complaints about alleged illegal miners in various communities, especially in Gauteng and North West.

POLITICIANS ATTEND TO ZAMAS ZAMAS

North West police spokesperson Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said in line with safeguarding lives, the SAPS and SANDF have since allowed for water and food to be delivered to those underground so that they can safely resurface.

Mokgwabone said police and other safety officials will remain in place in the North West until all illegal miners resurface and are arrested.

“The SAPS calls on these illegal miners to resurface so that they can get relevant help or aid, including any medical attention that may be required. We appeal to the community in the area to allow the police space to do their job. The SAPS will not allow criminality to thrive,” he said.

Police ministry spokesperson Kamogelo Mogotsi said the visit will reinforce government’s commitment to bring the ongoing operation to a safe and lawful conclusion.

Mogotsi said despite multiple calls, a significant number of illegal miners are yet to resurface.

“The visit seeks to interact and engage law enforcement agencies on the ground, engage the North West government and mining leadership and other relevant stakeholders, and to further assess the progress on the ground, challenges and work out appropriate responses,” Mogotsi explained.

RESCUE OPERATIONS CONTINUE

Meanwhile, community members have decided to deliver food and water to the miners who are reportedly not physically well and dehydrated. They have also decided to rescue the illegal miners without the assistance of law enforcement agencies who are on the scene.

This comes as minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni also emphasised that government would not assist the zama zamas and referred to them as criminals who need to be “persecuted”, not helped.

“You want us to send help to criminals? Honestly, we’re not sending help to criminals. We’re going to smoke them out, they will come out. We’re not sending help to criminals. Criminals are not to be helped, criminals are to be persecuted.

“We didn’t send them there, and they didn’t go down there for the good benefit or good intentions for the republic. So, we can’t help them, those who want to help them must go and take the food down there. They will come out and we’ll arrest them,” Ntshavheni said.

After breaking made its historic debut at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the discipline has solidified its position as both a global sport and a dynamic art form. Red Bull BC One South Africa 2025 builds on this momentum, honouring the culture, creativity, and passion that continue to fuel the movement.

Red Bull BC One is a global one-on-one breaking competition. Every year, thousands of breakers compete for a chance to represent at the Red Bull BC One World Final.

This will kick off with Regional Cyphers in three major cities, spotlighting South Africa’s finest breakers. These events will take place in Johannesburg on 25 January then head to Port Elizabeth on 1 February, and wrap it up in Cape Town on 8 February 2025. Each Cypher will feature head-to-head battles where regional breakers compete for the coveted chance to advance to the National Final.

From 26–28 March 2025, the Hero Tour takes breaking directly to communities across South Africa, connecting local dancers with legends of the global scene. Headlining the tour is the iconic Lee, who will lead hands-on workshops, showcase electrifying exhibition battles, and engage in intimate discussions about the craft of breaking.

The excitement culminates on 29 March 2025, with the National Final, where the country’s top breakers will battle for the ultimate prize: the honour of representing South Africa at the Red Bull BC One World Final.

Expect unmatched rivalries, jaw-dropping moves, and unforgettable performances as South Africa’s best take the stage.

The highly anticipated theme for the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July was unveiled at an exclusive event at Hollywoodbets Greyville, attended by media, fashion schools, racing enthusiasts, and celebrities.

Bookmark The South African website for all the build-up to the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July.

As the title sponsor of Africa’s premier horse racing and social spectacle, Hollywoodbets is honoured to reveal the 2025 theme: Marvels of Mzansi.

This captivating theme celebrates South Africa’s rich heritage, cultural diversity, and breath-taking landscapes, paying tribute to the nation’s extraordinary achievements.

Since the dawn of the Rainbow Nation, South Africa has had much to celebrate in the sporting arena – from the 1995 Rugby World Cup, when Francois Pienaar lifted the trophy as Nelson Mandela cheered him on in the iconic No 6 jersey, to Bafana Bafana’s 1996 AFCON triumph and Siya Kolisi’s historic back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories.

These moments have united and inspired the nation.

Vibrant culture

In the same spirit, the Hollywoodbets Durban July brings people together to celebrate South Africa’s heritage, resilience, and vibrant culture, showcasing the marvels that make Mzansi extraordinary.

As South Africa’s premier horse racing event, the Hollywoodbets Durban July has given the nation memories that will last a lifetime.

Who could forget when Sparkling Water, a then four-year-old filly, like a bolt out of the blue, set the world alight by winning the prestigious event in 2022?

The excitement continued in 2023 when Winchester Mansion, ridden by Winning Form-sponsored jockey Kabelo Matsunyane, narrowly defeated legendary jockey Piere Strydom, who was aboard the pre-race favourite, See It Again.

For tens of thousands of people at Hollywoodbets Greyville, it was a race to remember, as the excitement reached fever pitch while they witnessed equine excellence.

‘Highly engaged audience’

Stephen Marshall, Gold Circle’s Events and Marketing Executive, expressed his excitement for this year’s theme.

“Our pride in Mzansi’s heritage and culture extends beyond sporting excellence – it’s also reflected in the innovation, tenacity, and resilience of its people. The Hollywoodbets Durban July is more than just a major event that attracts visitors from across South Africa to KwaZulu-Natal; it provides a platform for participants to showcase their skills and talents to a highly engaged audience.”

The Hollywoodbets Durban July is one of the most significant events for the economy of KwaZulu-Natal, with a profound impact on various sectors.

As one of the premier horse racing events in South Africa, it attracts thousands of visitors, both local and international, leading to a surge in tourism and hospitality spending.

Hollywoodbets, a proudly South African company, is honoured to support an event that not only boosts the economy but also unites South Africans in celebration.

‘Proudly South African business’

Hollywoodbets Brand and Communications Manager, Devin Heffer commented, “The Hollywoodbets Durban July is more than just a race – it’s a cultural phenomenon that unites fashion, entertainment, and world-class horse racing on an electrifying stage.

“As a proudly South African business, this year’s theme, ‘Marvels of Mzansi,’ couldn’t be more fitting.

“It celebrates our country’s rich heritage, diversity, and extraordinary achievements, all set against the vibrant energy of Durban.

“Last year, the event welcomed close to 40 000 attendees and contributed an incredible R717 million to the city’s GDP, reinforcing its status as a major driver of tourism and economic growth.

“On 5 July, Hollywoodbets Greyville will once again be the heartbeat of the nation, as we come together to showcase the true marvels of Mzansi.”

By announcing the theme to KwaZulu-Natal’s top fashion schools, the Hollywoodbets Durban July aims to inspire South Africa’s fashionistas, young designers, and avant-garde creatives to interpret ‘Marvels of Mzansi’ in their own unique ways – where the possibilities are endless.

The 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July takes place on Saturday, 5 July at Hollywoodbets Greyville racecourse.

Tickets will go on sale in April on the Ticketpro website.

Marvels of Mzansi

A marvel is a moment, a person, or place
That catches your breath with its beauty and grace.
With majestic mountains and magnificent views,
These natural wonders could be your muse.

The gold of the sunrise, or mined from the ground,
Just a taste of our treasures, but more can be found.
Like dazzling diamonds refracting the light,
Into a rainbow of cultures that smile so bright.

The groom, jockey, trainer, owner and breeder,
Are part of the squad that makes a race leader,
With a marvel of nature, the thoroughbred horse,
Each four-legged athlete, a phenomenal force.

On this day of fashion held in high esteem,
There is heritage woven into every seam.
From village, to township, to deep urban centre,
Seek patterns and colour, an ensemble adventure.

As Ubuntu unites us in a joyful way
Feel the pulse of South Africa at the HDJ
Let’s honour our past and the victories won
For the Marvels of Mzansi shine in everyone!

South African schools will officially close for the year on Wednesday, 11 December, marking the end of the fourth term. Learners and educators will enjoy an extended break before schools reopen on Wednesday, 15 January 2025, to kick off the new school year.

The upcoming December holiday provides families just over four weeks to prepare for 2025. The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has also announced unique adjustments to next year’s calendar, including special school holidays.

Special holidays in 2025

South Africa will have three special school holidays in 2025: 29 April, 30 April, and 2 May. These additional days aim to bridge the gap between two public holidays in the same week—Freedom Day, observed on Monday, 28 April, and Workers’ Day on Thursday, 1 May.

The adjustments follow Section 2(1) of the Public Holidays Act, which states that when a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday becomes a public holiday.

Highlights of the 2025 School Calendar

The year comprises four terms, interspersed with school holidays and public holidays. Key dates include:

• Term 1: 15 January to 28 March, with holidays from 29 March to 7 April.
• Term 2: 8 April to 17 June, followed by holidays from 18 June to 8 July.
• Term 3: 22 July to 3 October, with a short holiday from 6 October to 10 October.
• Term 4: 13 October to 10 December.

In addition to public holidays such as Heritage Day and Youth Day, learners will enjoy breaks, providing ample time for families to recharge.

Media group MultiChoice has announced that MultiChoice South Africa (MCSA) and Showmax CEO Marc Jury has resigned.

Jury, who only took up the position of MultiChoice boss in April last year, will leave on 31 March 2025.

He was previously CEO of SuperSport.

The group said that Jury would continue to work at the company the next four months to ensure a seamless handover to his successor, Byron du Plessis, who will take over the role of MCSA CEO on 1 December 2024.

Du Plessis has been at MultiChoice for 13 years and is currently the deputy chief financial officer for the group, working as CFO of Multichoice Corporate and MCSA before that.

At the time of publishing it’s unclear what exactly lies ahead for Jury, although an internal memo sent to staff indicated that he would ‘pursue opportunities in the business of sport’.

Latest in a long line of employees to leave

Jury’s exit follows a string of several senior executives leaving the pay-TV operator business in recent years.

In April this year, Imtiaz Patel stepped down as chairperson of MultiChoice. This was despite the group saying that Patel would remain as chair until the conclusion of the Canal+ transaction.

Showmax CEO Yolisa Phahle resigned in 2023. Jury took up this position following her departure.

In 2022 Gideon Khobane, MultiChoice’s group executive of general entertainment, left the business.