Latest news with #Durban-based
IOL News
16 hours ago
- Sport
- IOL News
AmaZulu's pre-season shake-up raises questions ahead of MTN8
AmaZulu coach Arthur Zwane and assistant Siboniso Vilakazi have a tough task to keep the club competitive during the opening rounds of the upcoming season. Photo: BackpagePix Image: Bacpagepix AmaZulu's technical team are grappling with growing concerns over a lack of squad depth and experience as they prepare for a testing MTN8 quarter-final showdown against Stellenbosch FC on Sunday. Having finished sixth last season, Usuthu earned a place in the lucrative Top 8 competition — but as the 2025/26 campaign kicks off, head coach Arthur Zwane is still piecing together a squad capable of challenging on all fronts, including the push for CAF qualification. The Durban-based side released a staggering 17 players at the end of last season, triggering a major squad overhaul that has left gaps across key positions. Long-serving figures such as Veli Mothwa, Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Mbongeni Gumede, and Rowan Human were among those shown the exit door. With just days to go before their clash against Stellies, only a handful of new faces have been seen in AmaZulu colours, including defender Keagan Allen, goalkeeper Darren Johnson, and striker Ryan Moon — all of whom featured during the KZN Premier's Cup this past weekend. However, more arrivals are expected before the close of the transfer window. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Assistant coach Siboniso Vilakazi admitted that the team is still far from settled and that the loss of experience has been deeply felt during pre-season. 'When you look at the second team against Durban City, it tells you that we don't have depth because it was a completely new team,' said Vilakazi, after their semi-final exit in the KZN Premier's Cup. 'We have players that we are trying to reinforce with who have experience at the highest level and some who are coming back from loans and those from our youth systems.' Vilakazi was encouraged by the performances of some of the younger players but warned that youth alone won't be enough to carry the team through a demanding season. 'So, we are not starting from scratch,' he added. 'But after this tournament, even though we are happy with the performance of the youngsters, we know the depth is not there as yet.' Usuthu's situation is made more urgent by the timing of the MTN8. The clash against a settled and well-drilled Stellenbosch side, who themselves are eyeing silverware this season, will offer a stern test of just how ready Zwane's side really is. The club's recruitment strategy is expected to remain aggressive over the coming weeks, with emphasis on bringing in players who offer leadership and experience, particularly in defence and midfield. For now, Zwane and his staff are walking a tightrope — balancing long-term rebuilding with the short-term pressure of performing in a knockout competition. And as the countdown to Sunday begins, AmaZulu's depth and cohesion will face their first real examination.
The Citizen
2 days ago
- Health
- The Citizen
Where to get free mental health care in Durban
Where to get free mental health care in Durban ROUGHLY 16.5% of adults in South Africa experience common mental disorders annually. Anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders are particularly prevalent, with some studies indicating that one in six adults may be affected, according to The State of Mental Health in South Africa report. A recent white paper by the Wits/Medical Research Council, Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit (DPHRU), reveals that 25.7% of South Africans are most likely depressed, with more than a quarter of respondents reporting moderate to severe symptoms of depression. The SA government says: 'Mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse and job stress are common, affecting individuals, their families and co-workers, and the broader community. In addition, they have a direct impact on workplaces through increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, and increased costs. Very few South Africans seek treatment for their mental disorders. Mental illness can be treated at your nearest clinic, hospital or healthcare provider.' ALSO read: Mental health matters: Dealing with generalised anxiety disorder There is increasing evidence that a person can combat mental health illnesses. One can prioritise physical health, engage in enjoyable activities, steer clear of harmful substances, and seek professional help when needed. If you are looking for local facilities that provide free mental health services to people, you can consider these options. Here are the five Durban-based institutions that assist mental health victims for free: Durban and Coastal Mental Health: It is an NPO in Sherwood which provides free mental health containment, assessment and counselling. Contact details: Call: 031 207 3433/3078, email: [email protected]. South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): It is a mental health NGO dedicated to providing free basic counselling support, including a dedicated WhatsApp chat line, and also offers various helplines of different mental health needs. Contact details: Call: 0800 456 789, SMS 31393. WhatsApp: 076 882 2775. Email: [email protected]. LifeLine Durban: It is a service organisation that provides free support to people who have difficulties and also offers free mental and emotional health services. Contact details: Call: 031 303 1344. Email: [email protected]. Folweni Clinic/Mariannridge Clinic: These clinics are located in Durban south and west, and offer free mental health services for both children and adults. Contact details: Folweni Clinic Call: 031 900 0501. Mariannridge Clinic Call: 031 703 1625. Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital: It is a public hospital in Umlazi which provides free inpatient and outpatient mental health services. Contact details: Call: 031 907 8111. For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook , X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here
The Citizen
2 days ago
- Health
- The Citizen
5 Durban facilities that provide free mental health services
ROUGHLY 16.5% of adults in South Africa experience common mental disorders annually. Anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders are particularly prevalent, with some studies indicating that one in six adults may be affected, according to The State of Mental Health in South Africa report. A recent white paper by the Wits/Medical Research Council, Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit (DPHRU), reveals that 25.7% of South Africans are most likely depressed, with more than a quarter of respondents reporting moderate to severe symptoms of depression. The SA government says: 'Mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse and job stress are common, affecting individuals, their families and co-workers, and the broader community. In addition, they have a direct impact on workplaces through increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, and increased costs. Very few South Africans seek treatment for their mental disorders. Mental illness can be treated at your nearest clinic, hospital or healthcare provider.' ALSO read: Mental health matters: Dealing with generalised anxiety disorder There is increasing evidence that a person can combat mental health illnesses. One can prioritise physical health, engage in enjoyable activities, steer clear of harmful substances, and seek professional help when needed. If you are looking for local facilities that provide free mental health services to people, you can consider these options. Here are the five Durban-based institutions that assist mental health victims for free: Durban and Coastal Mental Health: It is an NPO in Sherwood which provides free mental health containment, assessment and counselling. Contact details: Call: 031 207 3433/3078, email: [email protected]. South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): It is a mental health NGO dedicated to providing free basic counselling support, including a dedicated WhatsApp chat line, and also offers various helplines of different mental health needs. Contact details: Call: 0800 456 789, SMS 31393. WhatsApp: 076 882 2775. Email: [email protected]. LifeLine Durban: It is a service organisation that provides free support to people who have difficulties and also offers free mental and emotional health services. Contact details: Call: 031 303 1344. Email: [email protected]. Folweni Clinic/Mariannridge Clinic: These clinics are located in Durban south and west, and offer free mental health services for both children and adults. Contact details: Folweni Clinic Call: 031 900 0501. Mariannridge Clinic Call: 031 703 1625. Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital: It is a public hospital in Umlazi which provides free inpatient and outpatient mental health services. Contact details: Call: 031 907 8111. For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
The Citizen
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
DHC to host free screening of God's Work
A MOVIE inspired by the homeless in eThekwini, debuting at the 46th Durban International Film Festival, will be screened for free at the Denis Hurley Centre (DHC) today, at 13:00, and at Watercrest Ster-Kinekor on Sunday, July 27, at 17:00. The film is already receiving rave reviews. An audience member at the SA premiere on Sunday at Suncoast confirmed the impact that God's Work elicits. 'It makes me feel incredibly uncomfortable … in all the right ways,' said the viewer. God's Work, billed as 'a portrait of resilience, a meditation on memory, and an unflinching gaze into the unseen lives of those discarded by the world', is directed by Durban-based award-winning director and writer, Michael James, and produced by Sithabile Mkhize alongside co-producer Marco Orsin. James was inspired to make God's Work while volunteering at DHC during the lockdown. The DHC, working with the eThekwini Municipality and other NGOs and faith communities, organised emergency shelters for 1500 people across Durban during the pandemic. The centre itself hosted 100 sick and disabled homeless men whom James spent time chatting to, and it inspired him to tell their stories on film. Also Read: SA film showcases Durban beachfront globally 'The film should make audiences feel discomfort,' said Dr Raymond Perrier, director of the DHC. 'And yes, something must be done. Leaders need to speak out, and the politicians and religious leaders need to listen, and respond, and support all of us endeavouring to make a difference.' The film is set in the heart of Durban. A derelict building offers a fragile sanctuary to a group of homeless men surviving on society's margins. Blurring the line between reality and fiction, the film follows Simphiwe, played by SAFTA award-winning actor Thobani Nzuza (eHostela, Uzalo, DiepCity), and his crew as they navigate addiction, poverty, performative politics, and the lure of fleeting fame. With Simphiwe fighting demons only he can see, and moving performances by a strong supporting cast, including Mbulelo Radebe, Omega Mncube, Siya Xaba, Zenzo Msomi and Nduduzo Khowa, the film is a raw exploration of survival, brotherhood, and the human desire to be seen before disappearing. 'This is not just a film about homelessness, it's a story about power, loss, resistance — and what it costs to stay human in a world that's abandoned its soul,' said Mkhize. For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here
The Citizen
6 days ago
- Sport
- The Citizen
Durban City announce new signings including an ex-Bafana keeper
City will be led by former SuperSport United and Kaizer Chiefs coach Gavin Hunt this season. Newly promoted Betway Premiership side Durban City FC have confirmed five signings including former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Darren Keet. Keet joins the Durban side following Cape Town City's relegation to the Motsepe Foundation Championship after they lost out in the Promotional/Relegation playoffs to Orbit College. ALSO READ: Midfielder confirms Orlando Pirates departure City confirmed Keet's capture on their social media pages on Wednesday. 'Durban City FC is proud to welcome seasoned shot-stopper Darren Keet to the Club for the 2025/2026 Betway Premiership Season,' the club announced. Joining Keet at the Durban-based side are Brooklyn Poggenpoel, who previously played for SuperSport United, former Stellenbosch FC defender Liam De Kock, Trevor Mokwena from Upington City and Ghanaian goalkeeper Fredrick Asare. 'Durban City FC is thrilled to announce the arrival of talented midfielder Brooklyn Poggenpoel ahead of the 2025/2026 Betway Premiership Season. 'Durban City FC is delighted to announce the signing of talented defender Liam De Kock ahead of the 2025/2026 Betway Premiership Season! 'We are thrilled to announce the signing of dynamic forward Trevor Mokwena from Upington City. Trevor joins the squad ahead of the 2025/2026 Betway Premiership season. 'Durban City FC is proud to welcome Ghanaian international goalkeeper Fredrick Asare to the Club for the 2025/2026 Betway Premiership Season,' read other tweets from City. ALSO READ: Sundowns' Ribeiro linked with 'blockbuster' transfer City, who were promoted to the elite league after they won the 2024/25 Motsepe Foundation Championship title, will be led by former SuperSport United and Kaizer Chiefs coach Gavin Hunt this season. Meanwhile, former Cape Town City midfielders Haashim Domingo and Thabo Nodada and ex-SuperSport defender Thulani Hlatshwayo are said to be trying their luck at the club under the watchful eye of Hunt and his technical team.
