Latest news with #R171
News24
4 days ago
- News24
Fort Hare fraud: State withdraws charges against Cape Town lawyer
The State has withdrawn charges against a Cape Town lawyer accused in the University of Fort Hare fraud scheme case. Sarah Burger, a director of Horizon Forensics, appeared in the East London Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on Friday, alongside 15 others accused of defrauding the university of a combined R171 million. The State said it was satisfied with the representations submitted to it by Burger. The State, however, indicated it will proceed with the charges against the other accused. This is a developing story.
The South African
18-06-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Mamelodi Sundowns' Club World Cup prize money passes R200 million mark
Mamelodi Sundowns' confirmed prize money banked at this year's FIFA Club World Cup has passed the R200 million mark – after just ONE match played! When South Africans connect, we don't just network; we build a community. The Lekker Network is a professional network where every conversation starts with, 'How can I help you?' Come join us & be a part of a community of extraordinary Saffas. FIFA has revamped the tournament, increased the tournament to 32 teams – and coughed up $1 billion to be split between the sides competing. By securing their places, Al Ahly of Egypt, Esperance of Tunisia, Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa and Wydad Casablanca of Morocco are each guaranteed $9.55 million (R171 million) in appearance fees – before a ball is kicked. But that's not all! Every win in the group phase will be worth $2 million (R35.8 million) and a draw $1 million (R17.9 million) so there'll be incentive to play – and win – no matter whether it's a 'dead rubber' or not. Mamelodi Sundowns have been drawn in Group F alongside German team Borussia Dortmund, Brazil outfit Fluminense and South Korean side Ulsan HD. Masandawana got their group stage campaign off to the perfect start on Tuesday, beating Uslan HD 1-0 thanks to a goal by Iqraam Rayners. That means at this stage Mamelodi Sundowns have banked $9.55 million (R171 million) in appearance fees and $2 million (R35.8 million) for their opening match win, giving them a total of R206.8 million. A top-two finish and qualification for the knockout phase will be worth an extra $7.5 million (R134 million) to those 16 teams. Should Mamelodi Sundowns finish top of Group F, they will face the runner-up in Group E. Group E comprises River Plate from Argentina, Italy's Inter Milan, Monterrey from Mexico and Japanese side Urawa Red Diamonds. If Mamelodi Sundowns finish second in Group F, they will face the winner of Group E. Should Masandawana successfully navigate their way into the quarter-finals, that will be worth another $13.125 million (R235 million). A spot in the semi-finals would be worth an additional $21 million (R376 million). The tournament's runner-up will receive $30 million (R537 million) while the overall winner will walk way $40 million (R716.5 million) richer. In a best case scenario , this is how much Mamelodi Sundowns could potentially win: Round Dollars Rands Appearance fee $9.55 million R171 million * Group stage Beat Uslan HD $2 million R35.8 million * Beat Borussia Dortmund $2 million R35.8 million Beat Fluminense $2 million R35.8 million Reach Round of 16 $7.5 million R134 million Reach quarter-finals $13.125 million R235 million Reach semi-finals $21 million R376 million Lift the trophy $40 million R716.5 million TOTAL $97.125 million R1.7399 billion *denotes confirmed prize money won That is PROPER money and will ensure Mamelodi Sundowns get richer and the gap between the Tshwane giants and the rest of the PSL teams just widens even further. It's also sure to leave Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates green with envy. The next FIFA Club World Cup is due to be held in 2029. Ronwen Williams (captained), Denis Onyango, Reyaad Pieterse, Khuliso Mudau, Thapelo Morena, Aubrey Modiba, Divine Lunga, Grant Kekana, Malibongwe Khoza, Mothobi Mvala, Keanu Cupido, Mosa Lebusa, Marcelo Allende, Jayden Adams, Themba Zwane, Sphelele Mkhulise, Neo Maema, Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas, Peter Shalulile, Lucas Ribeiro Costa, Iqraam Rayners, Arthur Sales, Tashreeq Matthews, Lebo Mothiba, Kutlwano Letlhaku Masandawana will be captained by goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, who created history at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations by saving four shootout penalties to take South Africa past Cape Verde in a quarter-final. Coach Miguel Cardoso has selected a 26-man squad including 20 South Africans, two Brazilians, a Chilean, a Ugandan, a Zimbabwean and a Namibian. Mamelodi Sundowns' remaining Group F matches are as follows (all times SA): Saturday, 21 June vs Borussia Dortmund – 18:00 Wednesday, 25 June vs Fluminense – 21:00 Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
17-06-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Club World Cup prize pot: Why Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates should be green with envy
The four African qualifiers for the revamped FIFA Club World Cup currently ongoing in the United States are set to become much richer, no matter how they fare in the 32-team tournament. The tournament, which kicked off on 15 June, will conclude on 13 July. Previously the FIFA Club World Cup was somewhat shambolic with only seven teams taking part in a tournament no one really wanted to be part of at the end of the season. When South Africans connect, we don't just network; we build a community. The Lekker Network is a professional network where every conversation starts with, 'How can I help you?' Come join us & be a part of a community of extraordinary Saffas. However, FIFA has revamped the tournament, increased the tournament to 32 teams – and coughed up $1 billion to be split between the sides! By securing places, Al Ahly of Egypt, Esperance of Tunisia, Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa and Wydad Casablanca of Morocco are each guaranteed $9.55 million (R171 million) in appearance fees – before a ball is kicked. That bonanza alone is the equivalent of Mamelodi Sundowns winning nine league titles in South Africa, the African country with the richest football prize money. But that's not all! Every win in the group phase will be worth $2 million (R35.8 million) and a draw $1 million (R17.9 million) so there'll be incentive to play – and win – no matter whether it's a 'dead rubber' or not. Mamelodi Sundowns have been drawn in Group F alongside German team Borussia Dortmund, Brazil outfit Fluminense and little-known South Korean side Ulsan HD. A top-two finish and qualification for the knockout phase will be worth an extra $7.5 million (R134 million) to those 16 teams. Should Mamelodi Sundowns finish top of Group F, they will face the runner-up in Group E. Group E comprises River Plate from Argentina, Italy's Inter Milan, Monterrey from Mexico and Japanese side Urawa Red Diamonds. If Mamelodi Sundowns finish second in Group F, they will face the winner of Group E. Should Masandawana successfully navigate their way into the quarter-finals, that will be worth another $13.125 million (R235 million). A spot in the semi-finals would be worth an additional $21 million (R376 million). The tournament's runner-up will receive $30 million (R537 million) while the overall winner will walk way $40 million (R716.5 million) richer. In a best case scenario , this is how much Mamelodi Sundowns could potentially win: Round Dollars Rands Appearance fee $9.55 million R171 million Group stage Beat Uslan HD $2 million R35.8 million Beat Borussia Dortmund $2 million R35.8 million Beat Fluminense $2 million R35.8 million Reach Round of 16 $7.5 million R134 million Reach quarter-finals $13.125 million R235 million Reach semi-finals $21 million R376 million Lift the trophy $40 million R716.5 million TOTAL $97.125 million R1.7399 billion That is PROPER money and will ensure Mamelodi Sundowns get richer and the gap between the Tshwane giants and the rest of the PSL teams just widens even further. It's also sure to leave Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates green with envy. The next FIFA Club World Cup is due to be held in 2029. Ronwen Williams (captained), Denis Onyango, Reyaad Pieterse, Khuliso Mudau, Thapelo Morena, Aubrey Modiba, Divine Lunga, Grant Kekana, Malibongwe Khoza, Mothobi Mvala, Keanu Cupido, Mosa Lebusa, Marcelo Allende, Jayden Adams, Themba Zwane, Sphelele Mkhulise, Neo Maema, Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas, Peter Shalulile, Lucas Ribeiro Costa, Iqraam Rayners, Arthur Sales, Tashreeq Matthews, Lebo Mothiba, Kutlwano Letlhaku Masandawana will be captained by goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, who created history at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations by saving four shootout penalties to take South Africa past Cape Verde in a quarter-final. Coach Miguel Cardoso has selected a 26-man squad including 20 South Africans, two Brazilians, a Chilean, a Ugandan, a Zimbabwean and a Namibian. Wednesday, 18 June vs Ulsan HD – 00:00 Saturday, 21 June vs Borussia Dortmund – 18:00 Wednesday, 25 June vs Fluminense – 21:00 Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The Citizen
14-06-2025
- General
- The Citizen
R213m down the drain as Limpopo residents still have no water
Residents say they are forced to collect water from the same source as donkeys, monkeys and goats. Residents in Limpopo's Blouberg municipality say they are forced to compete for dirty water with wild animals. This comes after the government spent a staggering R213 million on bulk water projects that have failed to produce a drop of water for two years. Most of these projects remain incomplete, while others are described as 'white elephants'. The projects are funded by the Capricorn district municipality through the municipal infrastructure grant (MIG) and other sources. The district is a water service authority to three local municipalities – Mole-Mole, Lepelle Nkumpi and Blouberg. The DA in Limpopo confirmed the allegations, branding the situation a shame under the ANC's 31-year rule. Limpopo residents share water with animals Johannes Seanego, a resident of Silvermine in Blouberg, said that sharing water with donkeys, monkeys, goats and cattle was a daily experience for his community. 'We fetch water from a fountain each and every day. This is because the district municipality has failed dismally to provide this community with fresh water. When the sun sets, all these animals assemble at this fountain and drink from the same source as human beings,' he said. 'During winter, like today, there is no end to our sufferings. Sometimes, parents go to work without bathing, while teachers at schools complain every day about the unbearable smell as they enter our children's classrooms. This is not on,' he added, while sobbing. ALSO READ: Limpopo's Rain Queen suspends initiation schools in 2025 DA caucus leader in the Blouberg local municipality Schoeman Kobola said many water projects were affected. These include: Ramaswikana Phase 1, which was budgeted at a cost of R171 million; Taaiboshgroet (R36.6 million); Milbank (R37.7 million); Brana (R3.7 million); Nailana (R22.6 million); and Pax (R3.7 million). The delays in the water projects have been blamed on poor workmanship, disputes over contractual obligations between service providers and the Capricorn district municipality, disputes between traditional leaders and contractors and the failure to pay for oversight by the authorities. 'We call on the mayor for the Capricorn district municipality, Mamedupi Teffo, to urgently investigate these incomplete projects,' said Kobola. R213m spent – but still no water Kobola said the Capricorn district municipality, as the legislated water service authority and water service provider to Blouberg, had funded water projects in 2023 in excess of R213 million. Most of these projects, he said, remain incomplete. In some instances, Kobola said pipes and taps were connected to houses, but for the last two years, no water has flowed out of them. He added that four boreholes were drilled to mitigate the shortfalls of some of the projects. 'But even today, residents continue suffering while trying to get this important basic human right. 'We urge Teffo to investigate these incomplete water projects and hold officials and service providers accountable,' he said. ALSO READ: Will new ANC faction take over in Limpopo? Jabu Masondo, the communications manager for the Capricorn district municipality, confirmed that some water projects had stalled. 'Many of these projects are affected by external factors, technical constraints and budgetary limitations beyond our immediate control,' said Masondo. Reasons for delays in water projects He said the delay at the Devrede water project was due to a dispute over boreholes drilled outside the jurisdiction of the relevant tribal authority. Grootpan, Sias, Longdon and Ramaswikana were delayed due to limited funding under the municipal infrastructure grant. Taaiboschgroet was completed, but the boreholes, he said, began to dry up. A geohydrologist was, according to Masondo, assigned to investigate and borehole automation was introduced to prevent over-pumping. These interventions, he said, managed to restore the water supply to the community, which is now receiving water. Masondo said the Kromhoek water project has been completed but there is a shortage of water, particularly in the Ratau section, because of illegal connections. 'From where I am standing, a contractor is still on site at the Milbank phase 1 water project and has yet to officially hand over the project. Two new boreholes were tested and equipped in May and the reticulation network is currently being tested. The Pax plant is operational and the delay in the Brana water project is due to a dispute regarding an Eskom-installed transformer, which was placed on private property.' Masondo said the Madoana and the Matshoana water supply projects, each valued at R9.7 million, are scheduled to be handed over in the coming week. 'We remain committed to ensuring the delivery of clean and sustainable water services across all communities,' he said.
The South African
07-05-2025
- Business
- The South African
WHY the majority of South Africans prefer cash in hand … still
Despite the sharp digitsation of banking, the majority of South Africans prefer cash transactions. New data suggests that digital transactions may be on the rise for wealthier residents/businesses, but the majority of South Africans prefer cash in hand. Impressively, even with the rise in digital banking, cash transactions have not decreased over the last decade. As a result, the lower-income majority in South Africa still prefer dealing in hard currency. Many informal traders and spaza shops are simply unable to transact digitally. Image: File As interesting as it sounds, the fact that most South Africans still prefer cash is rather a large issue for the SA Reserve Bank (SARB). According to the latest insights, this trend suggests that most residents simply don't trust banking institutions. Moreover, because nearly 45% of South Africans receive some form of SASSA grant, many want to keep additional income undisclosed, or 'off the books.' Likewise, the sentiment seems to be that money recorded in a bank account may draw attention from SARS. A key reason why many low-income residents draw their money immediately is so it remains undisclosed to SASSA. Image: File However, there is also a strange divergence occurring at a retail level in South Africa. Because, in middle- to high-income areas many merchants are going cashless. While, in the informal economy, many shops shun card transactions. This means there is a large amount of cash circulating South Africa. Far higher than other comparable emerging economies. Standard Bank's Nthabiseng Mohale revealed broadly the same amount of currency has been circulating the country since 2009 – roughly R171 billion. Therefore, 'Cash remains deeply embedded in the country's consumer psyche,' said Mohale. Informal saving 'stokvels' is another reason why South Africans prefer cash in hand. Image: File Furthermore, the SARB says broadly half of all adults withdraw all their salary money as soon as it is deposited in their accounts. Conversely, digital payments in South Africa have enjoyed an 8% increase annually. This represents a clear value proposition to retailers and consumers who don't wish to handle money, too. Nevertheless, the majority of South Africans prefer cash because it represents a tangible, familiar way of managing one's finances. Many are wary of hidden fees or unauthorised/bounced debit orders. Likewise, cash is also perceived as a safeguard against unforeseen financial burdens. Which side of the fence do you sit? Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
