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DON'T LOSE YOUR CITIZENSHIP British passport applicants required to apply to retain their SA citizenship

P

by HEATHER WALKER lanning to apply for your British passport but want to retain your South African citizenship? Don’t forget to apply for the retention of your SA citizenship first, or you’ll lose it, the South African High Commission has confirmed in response to recent queries from our readers.

“South Africans who take up foreign citizenship without applying for retention of their South African citizenship will lose their SA citizenship,” explained Yamuna Pillay, First Secretary Political at the South African High Commission in London.

“An application for the retention of RSA citizenship must be made before one acquires any foreign nationality. Persons under the age of 18 years do not need to apply for retention of their South African citizenship, as they will not lose their citizenship while still minors,” she added.

How do I apply?

You need to contact the consular section of the High Commission +44 (0) 20 7925 8900 to obtain the necessary forms.

A letter on non-acquisition of British nationality should accompany your application, this letter should not be older than 3 months. Information on how to obtain non acquisition letter is available on this link: www.ukba. homeoffice.gov.uk/britishcitizenship/ aboutcitizenship/ The processing fee for this application is £25.00.

Turnaround time for applications is 15 working days.

What happens if I became a British citizen without applying

INSIDE:

Nelson Mandela health scare| p3

Nelson Mandela has been discharged from hospital, after a media frenzy stirred the concerns of South Africans worldwide following the news that he had been admitted to the facility on the weekend.

Cocktail time at Bar 366 in Earlsfield l p 9 Due to its location (directly opposite Earlsfield station) Bar 366 is clearly a popular hangout. And if you’re looking for cocktails, this is definitely your spot…

DANCE OFF: Ryan Hammond, from Pretoria, and his partner Lindsey Muckle impressed the judges hugely in their semifinal performance on Sky’s Got to Dance on Sunday night with their fast-paced, raunchy fusion of ballroom and Latin. However after part of Lindsey’s outfit failed to come off as it was supposed to in their routine (inset), the voting public gave them only three stars overall, meaning they will not get into the finals. Lindsey’s skirt, attached to a silver leotard, was stuck on a bit too well and it took some sly sashaying on her part to recover, as Ryan nearly pulled her halfway across the floor in an attempt to remove it. Watch the video on www.thesouthafrican.com

to retain my SA citizenship?

A person who has lost SA citizenship by virtue of failure to apply for the retention of RSA citizenship will have the right to permanent residency in South

Africa if he or she was born there.

Such a person will be allowed to apply for the resumption or reinstatement of South African citizenship in South Africa. An application for resumption or

reinstatement of RSA citizenship is approved on condition that the applicant will live permanently in RSA once his or her application has been approved. www.thesouthafrican.com/news

SA Power 100: Mary-Ann Anderson | p13 Mary-Ann Anderson is the chairman of the SA Business Club and Director of Business Development and Marketing at London law firm Reed Smith LLP.

2

| 28 February – 5 March 2012 | thesouthafrican.com

News

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Exchange rate £1 = R12.04

Tube Closures DLR: Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 March, no service between Canning Town and Woolwich Arsenal and between Custom House and Beckton. Sunday 4 March, no service between Stratford International and Canning Town until 1030.

Metropolitan: Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 March, no service between Baker Street and Harrow on the Hill.

Northern: Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 March, no service between Camden Town, High Barnet and Mill Hill East.

Overground: Saturday 3 March, no service between Willesden Junction and Euston. Sunday 4 March, no service between Watford Junction and Euston until 1300 and after 2000.

Between 1300 and 2000, there will be no service between Willesden Junction and Euston. Sunday 4 March, no service between Richmond and Willesden Junction.

Victoria: Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 March, suspended.

What’s on

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March

From the townships to the world stage Date: 1 March at 7.30pm Venue: St James’s Church, 197 Piccadilly W1J 9LL. Two award winning South African singers, Njabulo Madlala and Pumeza Matsikiza, will perform in London to raise awareness for FoodBank South Africa.

Tickets are priced at £15, £20 and £25.

Tickets: www.satickets. co.uk or email janet@ foodbankfoundation.com SALVKOL/SAAWCOL (SA Army Woman’s Training College) Reunion in London Date: 2 March at 4-11pm Venue: Thai Silk Southwark (Queen Room) SALVKOL/SAAWCOL is holding a reunion for all the ladies who did military training at the college between 1971-1998.

This reunion runs alongside the reunion in George on 2 March, which will be linked via Skype.

Details: Carina Joubert 07914456344 or email carina_joubert@hotmail. com

South African Njabulo Madlala will perform on 1 March.

South African night with Luyanda Jezile Date: 2 March at 6pm Venue: Commonwealth Secretariat, Quadrant House, 55 – 58 Pall Mall Luyanda is one of the best singers, recording artists and actors in South Africa.

Admission Fee: £15.00 Tickets: masikhule@ hotmail.co.uk. All proceeds go to the Lorraine Poswa Mzimkhulu Pre-School in South Africa There will be a cash bar.

Breakfast with Steve Borthwick & John Smit Date: 27 March at 7.30pm Venue: Old Albanians RFC, 160 Harpenden Road, St Albans, Herts, AL3 6BB Saracens are holding a business breakfast with Saracens Captain Steve Borthwick and Springbok Captain John Smit to talk about leadership.

Price: £50 + VAT pp or £450 + VAT for table of 10.

Bookings: Ross McCann at rossmccann@saracens.net

Please email your events to: editor@thesouthafrican.com.

For more listings, please visit www.thesouthafrican.com

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thesouthafrican.com | 28 February – 5 March 2012 |

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Madiba A-OK after hospital scare Tour the history of the After a much more careful media management, Zuma announced ANC in London yesterday that Nelson Mandela has been released from hospital

by NICOLE HOLGATE NELSON Mandela has been discharged from hospital, after a media frenzy stirred the concerns of South Africans worldwide following the news that he had been admitted to the facility on the weekend.

The 93-year-old was given a clean bill of health and discharged after a minor medical procedure.

President Zuma, acting as official spokesman to stem the tide of media speculation, stated, “The doctors have assured us that there is nothing to worry about and that Madiba is in good health.”

They are now asking that people respect Madiba’s privacy and allow him to rest with his family.

Unlike his previous health scare in January 2011, every effort was made by officials to put the public’s collective mind at rest.

The procedure to determine the origin of abdominal pain was described as very minor, but necessary for a gentleman of Mandela’s age. Norman Mabasa, chair of the South African Medical Association, said that “You’re automatically concerned about any illness at that age,” but that the examination only involved a ”very small puncture hole”. “You can look inside and magnify that on a screen, and as you move your probe you’re able to see the various organs to look at whether they are OK,” he told AFP. Defence Minister Lindiwe Sisulu, whose ministry is charged with Mandela’s health care,

by STAFF REPORTER THE ANC London Branch will host a historical tour of the ANC in London as part of the build-up to the ANC's Centenary Celebration in October. The tour on Saturday 10 March will focus on the legacy and history of the ANC in exile, particularly of former ANC President Oliver Tambo.

Talking rugby at SA Press Club event

by STAFF REPORTER The long-awaited second meeting of the uNondaba SA Press Club will be held at the South African High Commission on Wednesday 29 February at 6.30pm.

This is an initiative started by The South African newspaper to allow South African journalists in the UK, both new and established, to meet each other, network and gain some professional enrichment through high calibre speakers from the

Mandela was released from hospital on Sunday.

earlier said “there never was anything wrong with him” but that the investigative surgery was needed to get to the bottom of his discomfort.

“He’s fine, he is recovering from anaesthetic and he is as fine as can be at his age,” Sisulu told reporters in Cape Town, refuting reports that Mandela had hernia surgery.

South African woman launches UK youth programme

BY DEBBIE MYBURG AT London’s Grange Hotel near Tower Bridge, i Rock! UK announced the unveiling of its ‘Tribes of Africa’ (TOA) fashion show and dinner in May – its first ever fundraiser aptly occurring on Africa Day this year.

TOA on 26 May will feature the works of eight top African designers in London and the initiative is being described as ‘fashion with a mission’. It’s an opportunity to raise the profile of i Rock! UK and its achievements, while celebrating the diversity of Africa within the UK. Speaking passionately at the launch were South African founder Viola Ncube, property tycoon from “Secret Millionaire”, Caroline Marsh, and London 2012 mayoral candidate Siobhan Benita. All were keen to promote positive change, improve diversity within the workplace and above all create better and easier access to opportunities for the youth. i Rock! UK ventures to teach young people a variety of skills that will better enable them

The bus departs from Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London, SE1 8XX, at 9am on 10 March. An ANC Centenary t-shirt and light snacks will be provided, only for £5.

RSVP is essential: Khaya Thwala info@anclb.org.uk Tel: 07438257742 or Nqob Mfeka 07466612582 or Xolani Xala 07505798633.

to understand the working environment and empower them to access opportunities, thereby penetrating the difficult UK job market.

Viola described why she started the enterprise. Her only daughter came home one day and after always wanting to be a vet she suddenly announced a change in chosen profession. The reason was because she had never encountered a black vet and struggled to envisage herself achieving in this field. “The mainstream media don’t portray ethnic role models,” Viola said, hence her determination to change this. The ethos of the enterprise is that if you can dream it, you can do it.

Young people can get involved in a wide variety of programmes including ‘Yes, I can’, ‘Future me’ and the ‘Sister to sister’ programme. ‘Future me’, for example, partners with corporations that help young graduates to further advance their skillset. Other programmes have mentors for various professions and through networking young

Ladies who rock. Photo by Bright Gurupira (Illustrations Photography).

people learn the importance of communication.

ABOVE all it’s a chance for successful people in various fields to identify potential in talented individuals and to connect with the youth to inspire them. It’s an invitation to pass on their skills and success secrets, thereby empowering and benefiting the youth. It’s an exciting time for 12to 25-year-olds to get involved and be inspired.

Details: www.irockuk.org

media world. At the inaugural event in September guest speaker Lisa McLeod of the Financial Times was the guest speaker. This month’s event will feature a discussion on SA rugby by top international sports journalists including Edward Griffiths, CEO of Saracens rugby club, as well as a screening of the groundbreaking grassroots rugby film, “Progress”, by Simon Taylor.

Details: Heather Walker editor@ thesouthafrican.com.

4

| 28 February – 5 March 2012 | thesouthafrican.com

Comments

Follow us on Twitter: @TheSAnews

On “Why don't you care?”

Sue Macfarlane: How do we find out about these particular demonstrations? I would have been there in a flash, particularly for this stupid secrecy bill. I’ve already protested via News24 and anywhere else I am able to I immediately put my name down.

It is absolutely ridiculous and reminds me far too much of the dreaded apartheid era and the bloody Nats!

Dean: They shouldn’t criticise the lack of turn out, but rather the lack of publicity, we’re a family of 12 in 3 different households in the UK and this is the first I’ve heard of these protests.

Boetman: I have to agree with Sue. I found out about it on Facebook the Thursday before and unfortunately already had plans for the Saturday.

Sean: If there was a better strategy of informing UK S. Africans about the protest we would’ve pitched up!

Vicki Canham: I agree with Sue, I didn’t hear a thing about this, in fact I am more aware of what is happening in South Africa than the SA community in London.

It’s easy to point fingers and accuse us of not caring, when

F O R

T H E

instead the organisers have not done enough to publicise the event.

Perhaps if you did more to inform people what was going on instead of using such emotive expressions as “Why don’t you care” – you might have a bigger, more willing following.

Mathew: I agree with all of the above, I would have been there if there had been more awareness….. facebook campaign maybe?

MFA: I lived in Germany for the last 16 years and realised that shouting from abroad is useless.

In July last year I packed my bags and returned home. So guys instead of protesting in front of High Commissions come home and get hands on. The Secrecy Bill is not so important.

There are serious things that need urgent attention eg. crime, unemployment, racism, hospitals, etc. To go and freeze in Trafalgar Square for such a minor issue is a waste of time. The DA Abroad and all other political parties should concentrate on homeless people in the Western Cape.

Gareth: This is the first that I have heard of this to and I live in Wimbledon, the heart of little South Africa in the UK. I catch a bus outside The Savanna Shop almost every evening. Couldn’t the organisers have put a big poster outside the SA shops to make people aware.

Rethare: This event wasn't very well publicised

C A T ’ S

Ebrahim: Agree with earlier comments, would have been good if there was more publicity. Viva Free Speech, Viva!

Colleen: There were some posts on Facebook about the event, but for future protests I would agree that more can be done to let people know. ZAUK is an online collaborative hub for South Africans in the UK – we’ll get in contact with the organisers and let them use ZAUK’s website and emailing facilities to notify South Africans of any future events.

If you would like to be kept in the loop, feel free to visit http:// www.zauk.co.uk and register.

Also, if anyone has events planned, let us know on info@ zauk.co.uk and we will happily send out a mailing for you.

Anna-Marie: I too would love to know how these protests are arranged, as we always seem to hear about them after the fact.

So maybe it's fair to say there’s no point in putting your fellow country men down, if they are not informed.

Claudio: For all those of you who “are not in the loop” as to these London protests, the three best ways to stay informed (apart from The South African newspaper) are: 1. Check out the Democratic Alliance Abroad website (see: http://da-abroad.org/). This is the overseas branch of the Democratic Alliance. You could also “like” it on their facebook group. Search

W H I S K E R S

I N

Only a small group of people turned up to protest against the Secrecy Bill on Saturday, 18 February at Trafalgar Square. Photo by Darren Adams.

for “DA Abroad-UK”.

2. Alternatively, if you would like to stay apolitical, you could either check the website www.pharside. co.uk, well known amongst saffers living in London or 3. “Like” the Secrecy Bill protest Facebook page and search for “London Protest to STOP the Protection of State Information Bill“.

Xolani Xala (ANC London Branch): Ludre Stevens [of the DA Abroad] is dividing the South African community in London.

The participants in the protest were

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A C R O S S

majority white South Africans. We are deeply concerned about the racial division they are creating outside of our country.

The DA abroad are opportunistic and cowards. We have publicly invited the DA to discuss their grievances on this matter of the Information Bill. Instead the DA opted to march. The DA should concentrate on homeless people in Western Cape and the high level of unemployment in South Africa.

COLOUR: Full Colour APPROVED:

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Despite international media reports, it appears that very few Zimbabwean expats actually express an active dislike for Robert Mugabe. Photo by Al Jazeera.

for him, as one might an old uncle who has just said a racist word in bad company. “I think he’s way overdue. He should really go,” said one woman. “He’s served us well for the time being, but he should ROB BOFFARD give a chance for some fresh blood.” These are not the words of people who hate and despise their leader.

I appreciate that distance might make them a bit nostalgic for the days when Bob was an ass-kicking, I think it’s time to reassess how liberating African hero of the we feel about Robert Mugabe. Not first order, but the lack of vitriol that he needs to go – anybody still is still surprising. And I’ve seen leading a country at 88 needs to this happen outside of this survey, go, if nothing else because being where I’ve been in conversations unable to control your flatulence with Zimbabweans who have said while you’re chairing a cabinet that actually, they rather like dear meeting is undignified – but how old Bob. It’s worrying.

E IN we feel about him. I don’t wish I’m not Zimbabwean L (obviously).

N to defend his reign as President My views are coloured by the ile b 0O of Zimbabwe. Not a bit of it. His South African£2 and international Mo in m / P economic policies have been media, who regularly erupt in R U P disastrous,Fhis apoplexy at what Mugabe is doing FEviews on race and e TO O dlin on most sex repellent, U an– and W L O min his rightly Y I’m not Zimbabwean.

My /occasions, NEnaked N disregard so.

There’s just this E views W are H coloured by for the poor nagging feeling that T the unbelievable.

DImedia, who regularly we’re not getting E R But I’m the whole story.

C erupt in apoplexy at starting to LL what Mugabe is doing.

Zimbabwe is a CA question mess – this, I think, There’s just this nagging is inarguable – but whether or not I have a then why are so feeling that we’re not right to feel getting the whole story. many of its people angry about still enamoured him when it seems that so many of their leader? Admittedly, this Zimbabweans – people who were doesn’t really take into account the directly affected by his decisions, views of those still in the country, who paid the price for his cock-ups but you get my point.

– have mixed feelings about him.

In the interests of full disclosure, A little Mail & Guardian video, I should reveal some bias here. which quizzed Zimbabweans living The last time I was in Zimbabwe in Joburg about Mugabe, was (age four) I fell out of a tree and illuminating. Very few expressed didn’t breathe for two minutes. active dislike. While nearly all The brain damage I suffered of them agreed that he had to go, caused me to lose all sense of and had made life difficult, most smell – long story, best for another thought he deserved a bit more time. So Zimbabwe has already respect than he actually gets. taken something from me. But it Affection is perhaps too strong a has not, it seems, robbed ordinary word, but they had a certain regard Zimbabweans of their dignity.

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Fridays from 4–7pm

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Choose an Awesome Kids’ Meal Kids’ Dessert Kids’ Bottomless Soda.

Offer excludes Kids’ Steak Strips. Eat-in only. Two kids 12 years & younger per dining adult ordering a Main Meal.

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PEDAL POWER: This weekend 11 teams competed in the Starfish 24-hour spinathon at Pedal Studio in Putney and raised £10,636 for the charity’s work with children affected by HIV in South Africa.

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First portion served with your choice of two sides.

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If you have been spotted in the circle on this week’s scene page please call us on 0845 456 4910 or email your address to editor@thesouthafrican.com to claim your prize.

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8

Community

Follow us on Twitter: @TheSAnews

Inequality in SA “grotesque” – Peter Hain MP

Peter Hain speaks about his autobiography and the legacy of apartheid

by NICOLE HOLGATE I spoke to South African-born Peter Hain MP about his recent autobiography, Outside In, and his feelings about the legacy of apartheid in South Africa.

You’ve written 16 books on mainly political topics – what drove you to finally write about yourself?

Yes, this is the 17th. I thought it was proper to tell the whole story: there was a natural end, leaving government, it seemed a natural period to tell it. It may, as I say in the final chapter, be about wishes unfulfilled, there could be further chapters to come in the future, but who knows?

The book is a comprehensive account of your life – do you feel there’s more to come now that you’ve finished it?

I’m really pleased with the reaction and it’s only just been launched so I’m holding interviews, following it up. There’s slightly less pressure but I don’t think you get much of a break in these jobs.

How far do you feel SA has left to go in terms of recovering from the effects of apartheid?

It’s got a long way to go because the legacy was horrific, both in terms of the divides but also, massive poverty, huge levels of unemployment, and most of all the lack of skills in a black majority population which was a deliberate instrument of apartheid. The task of empowering the majority and providing equal opportunities, that is gigantic.

Do you have advice for people working for further change?

People should continue, in any democratic society, and the great achievement was to destroy the evil of apartheid and create a democratic society. Its promise is always to rectify injustices, tackle the legacy and drive on towards a much more just society. There’s no doubt that the inequality in SA is grotesque in society, and in some ways is getting worse, between those at the very top, no longer just whites but blacks too, and those at the bottom.

What are your thoughts on the Information Bill?

I’m deeply disturbed by it, it seems to me that muzzling the media in this way is not the hallmark of a self-confident democracy.

Governments have got to be prepared to have the sense, and free press is absolutely critical for that, which is why I sent a message to a protest rally in London, along with Desmond Tutu, calling for the bill to be dropped.

With current technology such as Twitter, do you think it’s possible to prevent people communicating?

I think social media and online communication generally make it very difficult for the state to suppress them, as we’ve seen in the Arab Spring last year.

[Suppression of communication]

| 28 February – 5 March 2012 | thesouthafrican.com

YOU decide

ABROAD

LUDRE STEVENS

Nationalisation: Right Question, Wrong Answer

Peter Hain recently released his autobiography, Outside In.

is a seriously mistaken, frankly, completely pointless exercise. The story the government doesn’t want to get out, in the print or broadcast media, will come out.

What is the main barrier to change, in SA and other countries?

What you need is a government determined to overcome selfinterest and drive forward change.

Delivery of change is always much harder than government statements of intent. As I found in my time in the highest levels of the British government, change is very difficult to deliver. You’ve got to be determined, you’ve got to stick to your principles and you’ve got to just drive ahead and overcome the slowness of the machine.

Is this affected by any political leaning?

I don’t think so, I think the ANC government have the capacity to bring about the necessary changes, but they need to realise that potential, and they have a long way to go.

What are your thoughts on white supremacist groups in the UK, such as the EDL? I’m obviously still a target for all these groups like the BNP and the EDL, because of being a prominent leader of Unite Against Fascism, which is a principle group opposing them, just as the Anti-Nazi Group, there’s that.

But it’s not on the same level as receiving a letter bomb and all the other things from the Apartheid Security Forces.

What kind of action should be taken against them?

I think they should be confronted wherever they organise, as

fascism does, stop swaggering among Muslin communities preaching Islamophobic hatred.

It’s mainly about stopping them getting legitimacy, so they need to be confronted wherever they organise. If they are organising provocative marches then they should be harassed to end them by the local authorities.

Om die

Kombuistafel SUNE COETZEE

Houtstoofkuier in die Boesmanland DIE houtstoof was altyd die spil waarom alles wintertye in ons huis gedraai het. Winter in die Boesmanland is egter nie noodwendig elke dag so koud nie.

Die stoof is dus net aangesteek wanneer die dag al vroegmôre bloukoud was (soos ‘n standaard Engelandse wintersoggend).

Terwyl ons nog in ons beddens lê sou ons hoor hoe my pa met die stoof in die kombuis doenig is.

Teen opstaantyd sou die kombuis knus warm wees en behaaglik na houtstoof ruik.

Op so ‘n houtstoofdag kon my ma ‘n storm los bak en kook. Bo-aan haar lysie sou karringmelkbeskuit wees. Dan sou sy ook nog een of twee

THIS month the ANC released its long awaited mining nationalisation report concluding that state ownership of the mines was not feasible and instead proposing higher taxes for the sector. This report has come off the back of a vigorous debate fuelled by the ANCYL which has taken advantage of the vulnerability of our country’s poor to push forward their own financial agenda. So, I imagine that Julius Malema and his ANC Youth League cronies were very disappointed by the findings of this report. Rather encouragingly for the rest of us, the report was sensible and its conclusions based on solid research into other countries.

The report has been welcomed by the mining industry which has complained that the extensive debate on this issue over the past year may have seriously affected investment in the industry. I fear the damage may be more extensive – with growing concerns over the lack of infrastructure, continued load shedding and policy restrictions, this continued uncertainty has simply convinced mining companies that more welcoming countries like Australia and Brazil are a better option.

The report doesn’t go out of its way to console the sector either.

Although the main conclusion is that the nationalisation of mines will not be good for the country baksels koekies in die oond druk voor sy begin met middagete.

Houtstoofmiddagetes is anders as ‘n gewone middagete.

Dis amper soos Sondagkos.

My gunsteling was natuurlik ‘n skaapboud waarvan die vetjie so effens bros gebak is. Dit gaan mooi saam met gebakte aartappels, rys met ‘n lang bruin sousie, soet patats en groenboontjies met ‘n witsousie.

Iewers tussen teetyd en middagete sou my ma nog ‘n boontjiesop ook aan die gang kry vir aandete. Dit was immers een van my pa se groot gunstelinge. En boontjiesop is mos ‘n ding wat jy begin en waarvan jy dan vergeet.

Hoe langer hy kans het om teen sy eie spoed te kook, hoe beter!

My liefde vir stories het voor ons houtstoof begin. Ek kon ure voor die warm stoof sit en lees.

As die son saans eers gesak het, het ons gesin verder voor die stoof gekuier, met ‘n glasie wyn. Dis ‘n hemelse kuier daardie, so in die Boesmanland nagstilte, met net ons, die stoof en ‘n glasie wyn.

Saterdagaand ontmoet ek vir Christine van Colesberg. Sy woon nou in Londen. Ek weet sommer met die ontmoetslag dat ons goed sal klaarkom. Ons is altwee

as Malema insisted, it goes on to suggest other methods that can be implemented to achieve the same share of the national wealth by the poor of our country. These include a 50% tax on the sale of mining rights to prevent speculation; another 50% tax on any super profits. At least these solutions are more sensible options that protect private property and ensure our mining industry doesn’t fall to pieces, while at the same time increase tax on these activities which benefits South Africans.

I’m sure the ANCYL is not going to let this go and will continue to play politics with our country’s future. The ANCYL has asked the right question: how do we fairly distribute the national wealth of our country? And this report has some of the answers, but it’s not what the ANCYL wants to hear.

At the end of the day, our country needs to solve the poverty issue and the unequal distribution of wealth. Let’s hope the ANCYL doesn’t hijack the real ANC on this issue. Imagine: President Malema!

Let us know your thoughts on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ DemocraticAllianceAbroad Note: This column is paid for content and represents the client’s independent opinion.

plaaskinders. Ons albei se pa’s boer met skape. Ons altwee het in Bloemfontein studeer. Ons altwee voel bietjie hartseer oor wat met ons alma mater gebeur het, en ons is dit eens dat ons kinders nie sal kan teruggaan na Huis VergeetMy-Nie of Huis Wag-‘n-Bietjie waar ons spore lê nie. Kovsies het te veel verander. Min het oorgebly van ons mooi herinneringe daar.

Ons ontdek ook dat albei van ons ‘n liefde vir lappiesgoed koester. Ek hou van vinnige klein projekkies wat nie te veel moeite verg nie. Christine waag haar hand aan meer gevorderde patrone en dinge.

Maar dan kom ons laataand by ons een groot raakpunt…

Christine het grootgeword met ‘n stoof in die kombuis. Hulle stoof was bietjie anders as ons sin. Hulle het immers die room van stowe besit, maar die kort en die lank daarvan is dat sy ook ‘n stoofmens is soos ek. “In st.9 het ek my pa gesmeek om die bure se Aga stoof oor te koop. Ek het geweet ek wil ook eendag só stoof hê,” vertel Christine.

Toe weet ek: Christine sal beslis eendag teruggaan Suid-Afrika toe.

Sy het immers ‘n Aga wat vir haar wag in haar pa-hulle se stoor…

9

thesouthafrican.com | 28 February – 5 March 2012 |

Entertainment

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Cocktails at Bar 366 in Earlsfield If you’re looking for cocktails, then this is definitely your spot

by NICOLE HOLGATE BAR 366 in Earlsfield hits just about the right mix between cosy and classy. There is enough lighting for you to be able to move without bashing into furniture, and despite the regular Saturday night DJ, the music was at a volume you could talk over.

There’s also nice attention to detail: comfy seating, colourful décor, crazy wallpaper, chandeliers and candles.

Incredibly friendly bar staff too, all with carefully sculpted facial hair, who were very happy to talk about their trade and recommend cocktails based on personal preference.

This is helpful as the menu, inscribed on the ceiling, gives no clue to what the cocktails contain.

So to the important part – the cocktails. There is a truly extensive menu involving several different modes of cocktail including the Classic, Sexy, Bar 366’Tinis, Prosecco, and Champagne. We stuck with a few classics as we only had a limited amount of time, however I would definitely go back for a Bellini (peaches and prosecco). These are true classics: none of your WKD

mixtures, WooWoos or Sex on the Beach, but the kind that make you feel sophisticated asking for one.

KAREN DE VILLIERS

Don’t rub noses with a South African

Harvey Wallbanger: Despite needing to contain a massive amount of alcohol, the actual flavours are subtle.

You don’t really realise what you’ve consumed until a warm, fuzzy feeling begins to wash through your innards.

Strawberry Martini: A girly version of the classic, this has a lot of syrupy Cassis, alongside some real strawberry, to cut the gin. It’s getting entirely too easy to down these concoctions.

Dirty Martini: The bartenders seem very devoted to their martinis, so there are plenty to choose from. You should go for a daring Dirty Martini, which is the usual gin and touch of vermouth, but with the brine from the olive added as well.

Unsurprisingly, it looks like ditchwater, but the taste is crisp and not overwhelmingly salty.

White Russian: A personal favourite, and

The OPTIMIST

Bar 366 offers drinks that will satisfy sophisticated palates.

another that should effectively get you bladdered without you even noticing. This was perfectly blended, cool, creamy and very slightly spicy.

The only drawback I found was that, in trying to enjoy it, I savoured it for too long and the ice melted, making it a bit too watery.

Details: www.bar-366.com

DRIVING my son back to university is one of the few times the man has no option but to converse with mummy.

Confined space and all that. Generally conversation consists of a few grunts in passing, and the solid as Rosetta Stone reply of ‘fine.’ Life, academics, jail, girlfriends, diseases... all fine.

However, boredom or compassion had him chatting about one of his university subjects. International customs and relations or something like that. The study of global customs and culture is vital for a successful business beyond your own borders. Did you know that the Chinese may well be taken with a bottle of whiskey on introduction, but in Dubai this would be an offensive gesture?

Some institutions and universities follow the Geert Hofstede Analysis as a guide to cultural differences. Delving into this affair is more than fascinating; it’s useful really, especially as I live in such a global village. However, surfing the Internet for more research on the subject, I found one that had the following titbits of insight into the South African custom psyche. The International Business Etiquette, Manners and ‘Culture’ reveals some interesting pointers even I did not

know.

For one, I did NOT know this particular South African fun fact and I quote; ‘ South Africans love success stories and many admire Americans because they believe in what is known as ‘The American Dream.’ Really?

Thought it was the African Dream?

Other little titbits fall from the page of wisdom – African women wear saris and white South African meals will usually include a braaivleis. Ah, the stereotypes abound. It takes a country of vast culture and diversity and reduces it to a few basic facts – melting pot of accepting gifts with both hands (a black tradition) and the gem of being advised not to rush deals as apparently we are very casual in our business meetings (did you know that?). Ultimately, said advice page comments on our communication traits by stating that South Africans prefer a win-win status. So, humour me, does anyone really enjoy a lose-lose status, or an ‘I win and you lose situation’ (there goes the business deal). That is the gist of all information pertaining to understanding South Africans from a business etiquette perspective.

While one really needs to understand the culture and customs of the people you are about to do business with, best learn from the people themselves. Speak to your contacts before the meeting and find out if there is anything expected from you. A limp handshake would not be a good idea. Arriving naked, no. A nose rub between clients would not be a good idea either. Lobbing us together is not a good idea – begin with common sense and being friendly – now that is a great way to do business. And bring sweets.

10

Entertainment

| 28 February – 5 March 2012 | thesouthafrican.com Follow us on Twitter: @TheSAnews

SA designers spread Ubuntu at London Fashion Week The Ubuntu International Project at London Fashion Week showcased designs from Africa with an eco-friendly twist

by NICOLE HOLGATE AT the recent London Fashion Week, the Ubuntu International Project encouraged African designers to spread an eco-friendly message.

The concept of Ubuntu is an African philosophy roughly translated as ‘I am what I am because of who we all are.’

Nelson Mandela described Ubuntu as a notion that involves considering ‘What are you going to do in order to enable the community around you to improve?’ and the show itself opened with a quote from Mandiba saying that “We are all human.”

In spite of this well-meaning ethos, the nature of the fashion industry still rang true. Attendees were kept waiting for half an hour, with the models apparently rehearsing until the last minute.

The crowd, squashed into the front hall of the London Fashion Scout Freemasons Hall, were then pushed backwards for the VIP audience members to be allowed through first.

The show itself was not without hitches. One model lost a shoe, although she carried on with professional aplomb and the shoe was collected afterwards. Another model dropped a piece of her

jewellery, and there was a brief cut out of the sound during a later part of the event.

After the success of last year’s London Fashion Week debut by three South African designers, this year’s show also included designers from Uganda and Nigeria. The focus was on pieces that draw from the spirit of Ubuntu: slogans include ‘African grown and sewn’ and ‘Afro Eco’.

South African designer Clinton Lotter’s pieces were female suits, with strong geometric designs and blocky, deep colours. A more modern touch was added with flashes of gold jewellery, crocodile skin, and plunging necklines on the eveningwear. There were also some intriguing ‘half-gloves’ which, while not practical enough to hit the high street any time soon, were an inventive detail added to the simplicity of his outfits.

South African jeweller Kevin Friedman, whose original designs won a De Beers Diamond International Award in 2000, came forward with more Ndebele inspired pieces flaunting crosses and sacred hearts, as well as brightly coloured beading and insect life. There was also a confusing, but amusing, use of golf balls.

Jose Hendo, who embodies the phrase ‘Reduce, reuse, recycle’, created a group of fantastic, undulating natural forms in raw fabrics. Circles, swathes and soft accordion folds in burnt umber and ochre colours were made from bark-cloth, a UNESCO-recognised process dating back to the 15th century, famous for its use by ancient Ugandan Kings, but still having a contemporary feel. She also revealed a range of slogan t-shirts, including ‘Love From Africa’ and ‘Trade Not Aid’.

Ayo van Elmar created a series of geometric prints and stripes which held a traditional central African appeal, with all models wearing African Man-hats. The mixture of loosely ruched bottoms and squarecut tops was elegant and feminine, and showed wonderful detail and variety in textures.

Zohi Taglit’s vivid wax prints showed dexterity, tailored into simple forms but with endless possibilities. House j’Ola also used a number of very pretty prints combined with glittering, diamante borders. Studio 24 produced some slightly raunchy but functional looking shirt and trouser combinations in matching cotton. www. thesouthafrican.com/ entertainment

South African jewellery designer, Kevin Friedman, exhibited one of his latest designs which incorporates golf balls! Photo by Darren Adams.

11

thesouthafrican.com | 28 February – 5 March 2012 |

Business: News

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BUSINESS EVENTS

Surviving and thriving in the digital world

Entrepreneurship, the key to economic success in Africa?

Date:Wednesday 7 March at 6pm Venue: Deloitte, 2 New Street Square, London EC4A 3BZ The South African Business Club will hold its monthly networking event, a great opportunity to network with like-minded South Africans. Lisa MacLeod, managing editor of the Financial Times, will address the club on “Surviving and thriving in the digital world”.

MacLeod joined the FT in 2003 during which time she has worked on various strategic newsroom integration and reorganisation projects.

To book go to www. sabusinessclub.com

Date: Saturday 10 March Venue: School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), London Entrepreneurship has been identified as the key to sustainable economic development in Africa.

The conference will bring together government representatives, business leaders and entrepreneurs to explore several aspects of economic development in Africa.

Keynote speakers include Edwin Laurent, adviser and Head of International Trade & Regional Co-operation, Economic Affairs Division, Commonwealth Secretariat.

Details: www.sub-saharangroup. com

Legally Speaking: Tier 4 work rules

Q

: My sister is planning to come to the UK in order to do a degree at a UK university. What are the current rules regarding working whilst on student visa, and do you foresee any changes to the rules on students’ permission to work?

A

: Your sister will be allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and fulltime during vacations.

Note however that the rules on students’ permission to work differ depending on the course that a

person enrols for, and the above rules will be applicable to a person studying a course at or above NQF 6/QCF 6/SCQF 9 at a UK higher education institution.

Regarding your question on possible changes to these rules, the UK Minister of Immigration said in a Statement of intent on student visa rules on 13 February 2012, that they do not intend to change the current rules on students’ permission to work.

Please contact our offices for more information or for assistance with your sister’s application.

JP Breytenbach – Director of Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants Ltd www.bic-immigration.com or info@bic-immigration.com

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Euro Strenth Aids Risky Rand THE Rand traded last Monday 20 February at a tepid 12.18 to the British Pound and a decent 7.67 to the US Dollar.

The ZAR remained on shaky legs until Germany released its’ better-than-expected business data on Thursday, which resulted in a firming of the Euro. Carsten Brzeski, of ING Bank said “It looks as though almost nothing can shatter German business optimism”, which is essential for Eurozone confidence, and goes a long way to strengthening the Rand.

The positivity set the Rand up for some solid strength on Friday, aided by a hint of joy over Greece as they managed to agree on their second bailout deal. There are a few analysts, however, that are warning against this wave of complacency, predicting the Greek crisis to drag its heels.

This week investors will be looking at news from the European Central Bank (ECB) which will be offering unlimited amounts of cheap three year loans to banks in the EU, which could have a

strengthening effect on the Euro.

General sentiment would suggest that the ZAR will be tracking the Euro’s moves this week, as risk sentiment remains tied to demand for the risky Rand. Local SA data being released this week includes the final GDP figure for 2011 on Tuesday.

GBP / ZAR: 12.08 EUR / ZAR: 10.23 USD / ZAR: 7.62 Composed by Jesse Crooks

Note: The above exchange rates are based on “interbank” rates. If you want to transfer money to South Africa then please register/login or call us for a live dealing rate.

Make use of a Rate Notifier to send you alerts when the rand exchange rate reaches levels you are looking for.

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by STAFF REPORTER A few years ago I transferred GBP to ZAR at a rate of 12.50. At the time I thought it was a good rate.

Eight months later the rate was down to around 10.50 and eight months from there it was up at 14.50 and still climbing.

My point being, it is pretty hard to say where rates will be in a year or two’s time and that every person has different needs, i.e. will send or need money for different reasons.

So what is a good exchange rate?

“Anything above 12 is OK” seems to be the general consensus. Funny how the “12” used to be “14” a few years ago!

Will we see those rates again?

Possibly. The Euro situation is not pretty; the Eurozone has agreed on a second bailout of £108bn to help Greece make its debt payments.

They’re borrowing money to pay back existing debt?

Quite right. In layman’s terms the idea is that they slash government spending, increase and collect outstanding taxes so that they minimise debt in the long term.

Naturally, there are question marks surrounding this with many analysts suggesting it is just delaying the inevitable – which is that Greece will default on its payments and be forced to leave the Euro.

So what does this mean to my pounds and I? Generally speaking, the Rand follows the Euro. If the Euro buckles, the Rand buckles. If the Euro strengthens, the Rand usually strengthens. Without going into too much detail, it comes down to investor sentiment – if there is doubt in the market, riskier currencies like the Rand weaken.

There is a lot of doubt surrounding the Euro so it’s worth keeping an eye on how things develop over the next few months.

Many say the solution would be for stronger economies like Germany to help Greece, but they seem reluctant. If the person next to you spends all their money and mostly works half days, would you want to give them some of your hard-earned money? You get the picture…

For more information contact the author, Herman Howell at herman.howell@ sable-group.com

12

Business: News

| 28 February – 5 March 2012 | thesouthafrican.com Follow us on Twitter: @TheSAnews

Gordhan pledges R207 billion to education Government spending reaches R1 trillion for first time, millions allocated for young children and further education

by DAN SWINHOE SOUTH African Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan has pledged at least R207 billion towards education in Wednesday’s budget speech.

Government spending has reached the R1 trillion mark for the first time, but the record budget should also reduce the country’s debt. R207 billion has been allocated to education, with projections spending could rise to R236 billion over the next three years.

Talking to journalists before his speech in parliament Gordhan said, “We can’t wait for Europe to recover – we have to find our own way through this crisis.”

Yearly spending in provincial education is expected to rise from R169.9 billion this year to R183.8 billion by 2015, a rise of 5.9% over three years. Literacy and numeracy in learner performance

has remained problematic, so another R18 billion will be put towards learner subsidies for nofee schools.

Further education looks to have gained, with R850 million pledged to improving university infrastructure, and R17 billion will be given to the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, which gives loans to poorer students. This builds on further commitments by government to build two new universities in Mpumalanga and the Northern Cape.

The community-based childcare and protection programme and early childhood development programmes will see R1.4 billion spent towards them over the next three years. It is hoped this will increase access to early childhood development by around 80,000 with a focus on rural areas.

Elsewhere in the budget, R844 billion will be spent on

Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan and Gill Marcus, Governor of the Reserve Bank. Photo: BuaNews

infrastructure. The government has R3.2 trillion of potential or existing “mega projects,” while R1 billion has been committed to job creation projects.

Smokers, drinkers, gamblers and boat buyers are set to lose out with higher taxes on cigarettes and alcohol, a gambling tax and taxes on small planes, helicopters and boats.

Do you think more money will improve education or are there other issues to address?

Comment online at www. thesouthafrican.com/business

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thesouthafrican.com | 28 February – 5 March 2012 | Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/thesouthafrican

Mary-Anne Anderson

Director of Marketing & Business Development for EMEA at Reed Smith LLP

by GORDON GLYN-JONES

BULLET BIOGRAPHY • Born: Stellenbosch • Education: Kingswood College, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University and London Metropolitan University.

• Former positions: • Client relationship management executive at Andersen, onsite at Enron • UK Energy & infrastructure knowledge and marketing manager at Deloitte & Touche LLP • Global Head of Marketing and BD: Infrastructure, Energy, Natural Resources & Transport at Freshfields • Chairperson: SA Business Club • Twitter: @Mary0Anne

What brought you to London?

Essentially, I ended up staying in London by mistake. I studied a marketing degree here and intended to go back after my gap year. I just became so embroiled with the work and enjoyed it so much. I never really looked back.

You worked for Arthur Andersen, how did that come about?

In my mind, at the time, Andersen was the only company to work for. They always sought the best talent and had the most impressive international footprint. I bugged my employment agency to get me a job there; even if I had to seal envelopes just to get my foot in the door.

Is it fair to say Arthur Andersen, Enron, was a baptism of fire?

I was given the job of Client Relationship Executive and joined the team who handled the Enron account during the biggest financial scandal in history.

Although it was a complete nightmare, as an accelerated learning ground, I couldn't have asked for more (I was only 20). I remember getting up at six in the morning to scour newsstands, praying my name wasn't in the papers! At the same time, the expectations and level of service delivery in Andersen were phenomenal. Even though the Enron crisis spelled out the end for AA, we forged individual bonds that have endured. Each

year we still have Enron/Arthur London 2012 Olympic Games Andersen Xmas drinks! and Paralympic Games. Is this a You have since worked for privilege? international powerhouses such It's essentially a pro-bono account. as Freshfields and now Reed We deal with everything from Smith. In terms of work culture, drug testing, to whether the flame what would you say was the will be allowed through customs. biggest challenge you faced as a It's so fascinating and endlessly South African? innovative Even though the Enron work. I say Initially, I think I struggled with pro-bono, but crisis spelled out the my command in fact the end for Andersen, we of the English value you get forged individual bonds from being language.

Although I put associated with that have endured.

English as my this brand and first language on my CV and being able to use it in new client Afrikaans second, I had to raise conversations is very powerful. my game in the corporate world.

You are heavily involved in I think that South Africans are the South African community, very direct also and I had to tone with projects such as The South that down; and at the same time African Business Club and the I am rewarded because clients new SA Chamber of Commerce. appreciate people who get things What motivates you to do so? done.

When I initially started Reed Smith is the working in London, it was official legal more typical of South services Africans to try and provider hide who they to the were, in the face of residual attitudes after apartheid.

However, after a while one realises that being South African is what makes you live and breathe.

I therefore enjoy working with other South Africans because it reminds me who I am. On another level, I could pretend I was doing it to be helpful, but more

13

Business: SA Power 100

Read interviews with other SA POWER 100 achievers... on our website: TheSouthAfrican.com/Business/SAPower100 Njabulo Madlala

John Paul de Freitas

realistically I think it might be a way of assuaging my guilt about being away from home.

There seems to be a regeneration of energy within the business community with cooperation between organisations such as the SA Business Club, Breakfast Indaba, The South African newspaper, SA Chamber of Commerce, SA High Commission and SA Tourism.

Why is that?

Since the visa laws changed, I think the nature of the SA community here has changed.

Those who are going back have left and the professionals who are

here are building viable careers. I also think to some degree we are building on the goodwill generated after the World Cup. In my job I meet so many South Africans on the boards of big companies; people who are not embarrassed to greet you as a fellow international South African.

Will you ever go back?

Hard question. I was recently offered a superb job in South Africa and went through hell considering all the angles.

However, I just don't feel it's the right time for me yet.

To see the full interview go to www.thesouthafrican.com

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14

Business: Careers

Follow us on Twitter: @TheSAnews

THE GRAFT IS GREENER

Catherine Maclay

Senior immigration consultant and manager

by PAUL HARRISON

Background: I’m from Johannesburg and have been living in the UK and practising UK immigration law here for a number of years. I read my Bachelor of Business Science degree and LLB at the University of Cape Town and my MA Laws degree in International Commercial Law at the University of Johannesburg.

What do you do in your job?

I work for Platt & Associates, a firm based in Waterloo, which specialises in immigration, nationality and work permit matters. I’m regulated by the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) to practice UK immigration law across the breadth of entry clearance applications, in-country applications, appeals against refusals of visa applications and judicial review matters. The

intricacies of British nationality law and the EEA Regulations are a special interest to me and I’m registered to Level 3 by the OISC. I’m also an active member of the Immigration Law Practitioners’ Association (ILPA).

What’s the most exciting thing about your job?

I love people-watching because I find the human family fascinating in its diversity and common struggles. My job is exciting and fulfilling because ‘the world comes to my door’ for assistance with immigration matters. Every client’s story is unique and as a result the way immigration law is applied is unique. The job also often means creative problemsolving which I enjoy.

Most challenging thing about your job?

Constant policy changes in the UK immigration landscape. Through my work at Platt & Associates, and through my involvement with

| 28 February – 5 March 2012 | thesouthafrican.com

ILPA (which is a very valuable organisation with members working tirelessly to address immigration policy issues and problems), my colleagues and I in this field are kept on our toes to stay up to date with changes in the immigration rules, EEA Regulations, legislation and case law to address the immigration matters of our clients. We have to stay up to date constantly to advise our clients of potential immigration options they have currently, and may have in the future.

What lies on the horizon?

More policy changes to UK immigration routes. There’s been a lot of negative press following Immigration Minister Damien Green’s speech about proposed

policy changes to UK immigration law. What many migrants and business people are not aware of generally is how broad the immigration and nationality landscape is and how many categories exist within the rules, the EEA Regulations, nationality legislation and concessions outside the rules that may affect them.

The public are also not generally aware of the new categories that have been created, and will be created in the future, to foster more favourable migration (especially business migration) to the UK to benefit its economy and the lives of those living and moving here.

There are also options for migrants inside and outside the rules to live and settle in the UK if they have families here or have been in the UK for a significant time.

It will become essential for migrants, or those simply thinking of living, working and studying in the UK, to have a regular ‘health check’ with a properly regulated immigration adviser regarding their immigration matters. It is also essential they seek legal assistance with their immigration affairs in good time to avoid serious complications later on.

Does being South African help you in your job?

Yes. I’m increasingly grateful for the international perspective I have gained through my education and work experience back home.

The work ethic instilled in me growing up in a South African household balanced with the human touch which is part of our diverse heritage has also made me more resilient and adaptable in my career.

Through meetings I attend (such as the monthly Putney Breakfast Indaba) and contacts I keep with South African businesspeople in the UK and in South Africa, I have a good idea of the challenges faced by the local and foreign business community and how many legitimate, ambitious and hardworking people wish to put their dreams into practice but struggle to find the right information and assistance.

If you or anyone you know feel their work permit is going the way of the dodo or are worried about the next step they should take in their immigration matters they should contact me on 020 7953 8504 or catherine@plattassociates. co.uk

Business PHocus PAUL HARRISON

One of the most amazing emporia the capital offers to the carnivorous gourmet. St. Marcus Fine Foods Ltd, the first to bulk produce Biltong & Boerewors in the UK. For the past 30 years we have been producing the most amazing range of Biltong and Boerewors with a huge and imaginative choice of gourmet sausages and other fine specialty meat products. along side our enormous range of imported fine South African produce, Did you Know St Marcus Is: The oldest establishment in the UK for the manufacture and import of SA foods St Marcus have been awarded a gold medal for Our Beef biltong.

St Marcus Holds the most awards and diplomas for our Boerewors, biltong &Burgers in the UK In the South African taste awards out of 5 categories St. Marcus came away with 3!!

The Johannesburg Sunday Times called Emory St. Marcus "Mr. British Beef Biltong" way back in 1984!

Why? ... Because he is!

1-3 Rockingham Close, Priory Lane, Off Upper Richmond Rd West, Roehampton London SW15 5RW

21C Holmethorpe Ave, Holmethorpe Industrial Estate Redhill, Surrey RH1 2NB

“Speak my language!”

HAVE you ever noticed how challenging it is to find someone who is highly technical (my challenge is the IT department) to actually speak in a language you understand?

I recall one incident many years ago where I put a call into the IT help desk to see if I could get some help for my computer issues and ended up speaking to a guy about two floors away from me who used so much technical terminology that I had to ask him to come up and show me what he was talking about!

Now, I am not the most technical person in the world but I think this guy might have been showing off a bit. (Bullying me with technical terms?)

The point I am getting at here is that if you are able to speak another person’s “language”, you are not only going to get the solution a lot quicker but will also be able to develop a rapport with them.

So if you bear this in mind when speaking to someone with a financial, HR or management background and use some of the terminology from their “world”, you will ultimately get more of what you what.

If you have any comments you can reach me at Paul@MOBIvation.com

15

thesouthafrican.com | 28 February – 5 March 2012 |

Business: Classifieds

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KALAHARI MOON WESTON The Southern African Shop in Weston (Opp Tesco car park entrance). Wide range of SA and Zim products. Relax in our licensed cafe while shopping. And try our South African homecooked food.

7 Lockling Road, Weston Super Mare, BS23 3BY. Tel: 01934 708089.

Email: Info@kalaharimoon.co.uk KALAHARI MOON The Southern African Shop in Bristol.

Wide range of stock including excellent boerewors and biltong. Centrally situated, friendly service. Connecting South Africans.

Tel: 0117 929 9879 Address: 88 - 91 The Covered Market. st Nicholas Market, Corn Street, Bristol, BS1 1JQ Email: Info@kalaharimoon.co.uk Website: www.kalaharimoon.co.uk NO1 SOUTH AFRICAN SHOP Lots of lekker stuff for a taste of home.

Including fantastic biltong, droewors and boerewors. 5 Marlow Drive, St Catherines Hill, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 2RR. The shop is about 2 miles north-west of Christchurch town centre and 6 miles north-east of Bournemouth town centre.

There’s loads of free parking and the shop is easy to get to from the A338.

Tel: 01202 496041 10’ish to 6pm 7 days a week. www.no1southafricanshop.co.uk

www.biltongstmarcus.co.uk Email sales@stmarcus.co.uk

Gold Medal Winners for Beef Biltong and Boerewors 1998.

Triple Crown Winners 2010 Ostrich * Kudu * Springbok * The South African 1-3 Rockingham Close Priory Lane, Roehampton London SW15 5RW

21c Holmethorpe Avenue Holmethorpe Industrial Estate, Redhill, Surrey RH1 2NB

GOING HOME MONEYGRAM A leading global provider of money transfer services, MoneyGram International helps consumers to safely send money around the world with funds arriving at available agent locations in as little as 10 minutes. Its global network is comprised of 190,000 agent locations.

MoneyGram’s convenient and reliable network includes retailers, international post offices and financial institutions.

Web: www.moneygram.com.

IMMIGRATION

FOOD & DRINK ABANTU BUTCHERS Abantu Butchery boerewors specialist, supplying wholesale and catering and retail shops as we are fully EEC licensed, we can also supply vacuum packed steaks in any quantity you may require.

Probably the best boerewors you have tasted at a remarkable price. 19 City Arcade, City Centre, Coventry, CV1 3HX Tel: 02476555767 CAMBRIDGE & VILLAGES Toft Shop – Village Shop & Post Office With a South African section selling all your favourite tastes from home! Pop in and pick up your treats – Biltong; Boerewors; Koeksisters; Rusks; Sweets; Chips; Groceries etc. Web: www.ToftShop.co.uk Tel: 01223 262 204. CB23 2RL CANTINA LAREDO Enjoy the fresh & vibrant tastes of real Mexican cuisine! The best fillet & rib-eye steaks you have tasted in London.

Margaritas frozen or ‘on the rocks’.

Guacamole, Enchiladas, Tacos, Salads, Fish, Chicken & Desserts to die for!

Great atmosphere & South African hospitality. 10 Upper St. Martin’s Lane, Covent Garden, WC2H 9FB. T: 0207 420 0630. www.cantinalaredo.co.uk info@cantinalaredo.co.uk Leicester Square/Covent Garden THE CHICHESTER BILTONG COMPANY www.biltongcompany.co.uk The best of British from a friendly bunch of South Africans who made Sussex our home. But there was one thing we couldnt live without from our native land..Biltong!

So we made our own using traditional recipes handed down through generations.

We only use the finest prime British beef!

Get our “readers 10% EXTRA FREE” offer by using the VOUCHER CODE ‘SA10’ CRUGA Home of CRUGA biltong. Cruga’s factory shop offers a full range of South African and Zimbabwean groceries plus boerewors, droewors and of course biltong. Tel: 01908 565 432 Email: biltong@cruga.com Web: www.cruga.com Address: Tilers Rd Kiln Farm, Milton Keynes, MK11 3LH

SHEBEEN BAR Edinburgh’s only South African bar has opened in Leith. A unique, stylish bar with something for everyone,delivered by experience and friendly staff. As expected we stock a large range of South African beers, wines, ciders and snacks, including a classic selection of cocktails and Dom Pedros. Opening hours are from 12pm to 1am. Come down and enjoy a true taste of Africa.

3-5 Dock Place, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6LU. 0131 554 9612.

Snoggy’s

BREYTENBACHS IMMIGRATION CONSULTANTS LTD: UK & SA Immigration Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants specialises in UK and SA Immigration.

We pride ourselves on our reputation for excellence, fast results and friendly personal service. Registered by the OISC to level 3, you can be assured that your case is in safe hands!

We can assist you with: • All Points-based Immigration matters • UK Visitor visas • Tier 1 / HSMP • Tier 2 / Work permits & Sponsorship • Tier 4 / Student Visas • Dependency, unmarried partner and civil partner visas • Ancestry Visas • Indefinite leave to Remain / Permanent residency • British Citizenship • Appeals • English Language Tests • South African Immigration Prices have been set competitively with you in mind, enabling you to receive expert advice at affordable prices.

We have a No Visa – No Fee policy on our Immigration services! Contact us today for best advice and peace of mind!

Visit www.bic-immigration.com, or Email us on info@bic-immigration.com

Food Shops

SNOGGY’S PutNeY ButcherY

367 Upper Richmond Rd, SW15 5QJ Tel: 02088762050

Voted the BEST tasting Biltong and Dry wors by thousands of SAFFAS living in South West London THE BUTCHERY - Everything made on site including our burgers and delicious Boerewors, plus our range of Beef, Pork, Chicken and Spicy Lamb sausages.

YOU HAVE NOT LIVED UNTIL YOU HAVE EATEN ONE OF OUR AGED SEASONED RUMP STEAKS... affordable and like butter in the mouth...

The SouTh AfricAn is available at all snoggy’s stores

www.snoggys.com FOODS4U LTD Visit the most comprehensive online South African range. A secure and user friendly website awaits. www.foods4u. co.uk or email: sales@foods4u.info Tel: 087 087 45009. Fax: 087 087 45002

WHOLESALER OF SOUTH AFRICAN FOOD PRODUCTS Beers, wines, cold-drinks, biscuits, maize meal, chutney...

Phone us for your order: 01753684005/ 01753684014 Mobile: 07859 014 199 www.jumbowholesale.com

SUSMAN’S BEST BEEF BILTONG CO LTD If you’re missing home give us a call, supplying you with all your favourite South African products and more.

Phone: 01273 516160 Fax: 01273 51665 Web:www.biltong.co.uk Email:sales@biltong.co.uk THE SOUTH AFRICAN SHOP We stock most SA consumer goods in our large store in Maidenhead or order online and get next day delivery service throughout the UK. Your home away from home.

Mon – Friday: 9:30am – 5:30pm Saturday: 9:30am – 6pm Sunday: 11am – 4pm www.southafricanshop.co.uk.

Tel: 01628782511 ST MARCUS FINE FOODS Largest importers & producers of SA foodstuffs in UK. Retail & wholesale. 1 Rockingham Close, Roehampton, Putney SW15. Tel 020 8878 1898. Biltong Factory is now open to the public. 8 types of Boerewors. All SA foodstuffs stocked.

Free Parking. Tel 020 8878 1898 / 21C Holmethorpe Avenue, Holmethorpe Industrial Estate, Redhill, RH1 2NB Email:sales@stmarcus.co.uk Web: www.biltongstmarcus.co.uk

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16

Travel

| 28 February – 5 March 2012 | thesouthafrican.com Follow us on Twitter: @TheSAnews

Israel – behind the headlines Raquel Messi would like to draw your attention to a country more famous for its politics than its holiday appeal

by RAQUEL MESSI ON the other side of the Med, a mere five hour EasyJet flight from Luton, is a tiny country with some of the world's most important religious sites. Rooted in a deep and bloody, yet relatively young political history (this nation is yet to be recognised as a state by many of its neighbours), it’s often easy to forget that Israel is also a cosmopolitan country and a hotspot for travellers. Welcome to ‘Zion’.

Tel (Aviv) us more Tel Aviv can take the title of ‘most liberal city in the Middle East’ and is a great place to base yourself during your trip. As with any city, it obviously helps when locals show you around and I was lucky enough to have some ready-made. But I can assure you, this is not a pre-requisite, and friends in Israel can be made in any bar or on any street at any time.

Israelis have an endearing arrogance. If you have the patience to take it with a pinch of salt, their national pride draws you in. It may also help that the city is bordered to the west by awesome Mediterranean beaches, and with a warm and hospitable general climate what is there not to like about Tel Aviv?

The Holy City What can be said about Jerusalem other than – wow! Taking in this city will affect everyone in some way. It’s not a claim many cities in the world can make (Google ‘Jerusalem syndrome’) but you'll be sure to take something away from a visit to Jerusalem. Everything about the old city affects you – the sounds, the smells, the people. You may believe you feel the tensions between the Palestinians, Armenians, Christians and the Orthodox Jews who reside there. You can experience the history even if you are a non-believer. There is seemingly so much common ground yet so many divisions.

Walking through history Walk through Jerusalem’s ‘old city’ into the Palestinian quarter and eat there. I can safely

say it was indeed some of the best hummus I have ever had. Then to the Western Wall - from here you can climb up to the Jewish Quarter and take in the most iconic view of the city, the Dome of the Rock.

Jerusalem shuts down between sundown on Fridays and Saturdays for the Sabbath and many of the more secular residents leave for the weekend. During the evening I was privileged to be taken to some of the characteristic bars which are hidden all over the city. Eerily, in stark contrast to Tel Aviv, signs of life are few and far between at night.

Jerusalem has recently completed a tram service – it had only just opened when I visited and the novelty meant that the carriages resembled London’s Central Line during rush hour. However don’t abandon walking the ‘new part’ of the city in favour of the tram as there is so much to take in – the artwork and architecture alone tell stories of this embattled city.

Dead-ly Sea-rious The Dead Sea is another must-do on any trip to Israel. You can do a tour or drive there yourself, or as in my case, be driven. The drive between Jerusalem and the Dead Sea has elevation markers reminding you just how far below sea level you are driving. The landscape out here is biblical; you can almost imagine Jesus wandering here in his sandals and robes! By the time you reach the famous shores you are 1,300ft below sea level, where you have to drive along the coast for a while until you reach the Ein Gedi settlement.

Here’s where you can bathe in the water…but be warned: take sandals as the crystallised salt cuts and the salty water stings like you wouldn’t believe!

Forcing yourself to leave There are many more places to visit in Israel – Haifa, Eilat and the Kibbutz were places I wished I had more time to visit, but I am confident in a return visit eventually.

Head to Israel to enjoy a country that puts a lot of the stereotypes to shame. L’chaim!

WE WANT YOUR STORIES Are you a budding travel writer? Want to share a recent trip with us? Send your 500 word story and pics to editor@thesouthafrican.com Or let us know if you would like to read about a particular destination! We’ll try our best to fulfil your wish!

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From stunning city views to the Wailing Wall, Israel is a short trip away from a dream holiday.

17

thesouthafrican.com | 28 February – 5 March 2012 | Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/thesouthafrican

®

This page proudly sponsored by

Zimbabwe Community

Movie tells inside story of Mugabe’s despotic rise

From left to right: Dr Know Chitiyo, Richard Levy, Conrad Mwanza, Zeb Manatse, Peter Soko.

Paying tribute to Zimbabwean success The Zimbabwe Achievers Awards seeks to honour Zimbabweans who have pushed against all odds to raise the Zimbabwean flag high

by MARY ISOKARIARI ON 9 February in London, global money transfer company MoneyGram was announced as the headline sponsor of the 2012 Zimbabwe Achievers Awards (ZAA), taking place on 28 April at Grange Tower Bridge Hotel and presented by Zimbabwean actress Chipo Chung.

In its second year, the ZAA recognises and celebrates the achievements of Zimbabweans from all walks of life, highlighting their success across several fields such as entertainment, sport, business, arts and culture. The ZAA is attended by prominent figures within the Zimbabwean community with this year’s ceremony promising to be bigger and better.

The judging panel is chaired

by Dr Know Chitiyo, head of the

Africa Programme at the Royal United Services Institute and chairman of the Britain-Zimbabwe Society. The others panellists are Richard Levy (marketing director at MoneyGram), Conrad Mwanza (ZAA CEO and managing director of Zimbabwe Business Network), Zeb Manatse (ZAA panel chairman) and Peter Soko (event producer and one of the founding members of ZAA).

With an unprecedented number of people making nominations, Manatse said this proved the public appreciated the difference Zimbabweans were making in their communities. He added, “Let me assure you this is not a popularity contest. We are going into the background of each nomination to ensure they are making a contribution to their community.”

Mwanza added, “Zimbabweans are high achievers and forward thinkers and you find them in institutions, large organisations and in powerful positions. If a country is going to be rebuilt it will be done by its own people.

We wanted to recognise this.”

ZAA Marketing and Sponsorship Director Josh Chigwangwa said a new magazine will reinforce the same positive message as the awards.

The Public Nominations Announcement and Awards Launch Party on Saturday 25 February will reveal the shortlisted nominees, with the winners announced on 28 April. Those who would like to attend can submit their details for the guestlist via the Zim Achievers website.

For tickets and more information go to www.zimachievers.com

Activists call for Rhodes to be exhumed, returned to UK

by DAN SWINHOE ZANU-PF activists have called for the remains of politician and De Beers founder Cecil John Rhodes to be exhumed and returned to the UK. Mugabe loyalists and liberation veterans visited his gravesite in the Matopos hills outside Bulawayo, expressing their anger that his body was allowed to remain in the country, according to the Daily Mail. So far Mugabe’s government has resisted any calls to exhume Rhodes’s remains, though there have been calls since Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980.

A police investigation has been called for after the activists met at the grave to discuss their plans with a Matopos village chief.

Zimbabwe’s Radio VOP reported that among the group was Monica

Mguni-Sikhosana, a senior ZanuPF official.

Buster Magwizi, chairman of an organisation for veterans who fought for Zimbabwe’s second liberation party Zapu, told the station the activists turned up unannounced. He said, “We are shocked by the behaviour of these people, they should be arrested.”

“We wonder where they are getting permission and guts to do that, because that is a respected and protected area,” he added.

Consisting of a granite tomb and simple brass plaque, the grave lies within the Matopos National Park, a state-owned reserve south-east of Bulawayo. Rhodes was buried in there in 1902 after dying of heart failure. It remains a national monument and is visited by thousands of tourists every year.

Rhodes was born in 1853 in Hertfordshire, England and died aged 48. He made his fortune in the diamond industry, founding De Beers which at one point provided 90% of the world’s supply of diamonds. A leading politician in South Africa and fierce believer in British colonialism, he hoped to expand the British empire from Cape Town to Cairo he founded Rhodesia in his own name in 1888, though it was renamed Zimbabwe in 1979.

In December 2010 Cain Mathema, the governor of Bulawayo, branded Rhodes’s grave ‘an insult to our ancestors.’

He said: ‘My call is not directed against Britain or whites, but against symbols that persecuted our people and took away our freedom and wealth.’

by COLIN MACRAE ROBERT Mugabe is one of a few world leaders in power today who are known almost universally, although his name is now synonymous with revulsion, disgust, anger, and even pity.

Anyone with a connection to Southern Africa has an opinion on him, and often a horror story to back it up, too.

But Mugabe was also the liberator, father of the nation, and a leader known for forward thinking in African education and healthcare. If we look beyond the headlines, the world is no closer to an understanding of how this transformation happened.

Mugabe as an educated Christian anglophile who also sanctions genocide is one of many contradictions within this enigma of a man.

Given the press restrictions, propaganda and suppression, it seemed the full story could never be told. That is, until now. Using a combination of rare footage and interviews with key individuals, the documentary Robert Mugabe, What Happened? gives real insight and context to one of the tragedies of modern Southern Africa.

Eschewing sensationalism, director Simon Bright develops a linear narrative that steadily and sombrely reveals the complexities and contradictions that existed in Mugabe from his childhood through liberation and on to the present day. I use the word sombre deliberately, because the tone is serious and conservative.

Bright’s steady hand resists the urge to be judgmental, and lets viewers slowly form their own opinions of developments – a difficult path to take, as we already know the ending.

That same steady hand keeps you fascinated, uncovering new nuggets, further incongruities, and revealing fresh insight, while still keeping you riveted until the end. Telling the full story would be a tragedy of Shakespearean proportions, and sometimes the documentary actually throws up more questions about his contradictory persona than it

Robert Mugabe, What Happened? is currently screening in the UK.

answers. In many ways Robert Mugabe, What Happened? does what it says on the box, methodically uncovering what happened and allowing you to judge for yourself. And it is the pacing, this slow reveal, letting the horror slowly sink in, as a despot desperately clings to power, that makes this documentary all the more damning an indictment.

Robert Mugabe, What Happened? has been nominated for two SAFTAs – Best South African Documentary and Best Editor. A must-see for anyone who cares about Africa.

UK screenings: • Until 2 March – Ritzy Picturehouse, Brixton • Until 2 March – Hackney Picturehouse • 6 March – Sheffield Showroom – Q&A with Simon Bright • 14 March – Royal Geographical Society, London • 14 March – Glasgow Film Theatre • 16 – 18 March – Leuven African Film Festival • 25 March – Cardiff • 2 April – Oxford Picture house • 5 April – Common Soc • 17 April – Lighthouse Poole

18

| 28 February – 5 March 2012 | thesouthafrican.com

Sport

Follow us on Twitter: @TheSAnews

This page proudly sponsored by

Teejay Jones and the Twelve in Twelve

TeeJay Jones is part of a group of 26 individuals undertaking a challenge a month to raise money for the HOPEHIV charity

by NICOLE HOLGATE LEEDS-BASED Zimbabwean expat TeeJay Jones is part of a group of 26 individuals undertaking a challenge a month to raise money for the charity HOPEHIV. HOPEHIV is not part of the fight against HIV directly, but works to support those affected.

Many of these are children who end up on the streets after their parents died of Aids. The forwardthinking nature of HOPEHIV’s work aims to influence a future generation through emotional support, education, child rights and economic empowerment. They in turn rely on the fundraising of other organisations and individuals, such as ‘the12in12′.

TeeJay Jones originally heard of ‘the12in12′ project through an old friend, who had been roped into it by the orchestrators, Sarah O’Neill and her husband John. Soon they were a team of 26, represented by several diverse nationalities, but all with a shared enthusiasm. Each challenged themselves to complete 12 events over 12 months in 2012, raising as much money as they possibly could for HOPEHIV. Their fundraising target for the year is £250,000.

TeeJay, a graduate of Rhodes University, South Africa, admits to being a lifelong lover of sport, and also wanting a new, slightly insane challenge. It helps that she has found such a supportive team, a group who are not only keen for

MIND THE RUCK ROB FLUDE

Solution to the Kings Problem THE situation that SARU finds itself in is a bit like a child being reprimanded over attempting to steal a cookie, but swatting the blame back to their mother for not putting any cookies in the tin.

SARU is now sending a delegation of seven in mid-March to propose a solution to SANZAR which they claim to have contrived after a lengthy workshop last week.

However, had they followed

a positive and proactive challenge, but who are “putting their bodies, minds and souls on the line.”

Having grown up in Africa herself, she has seen firsthand how HIV can tear families apart. “It’s not just the stigma that can alienate you from the community, but when both parents die, often leaving children to be looked after by elderly grandparents, or in the worst cases, left to fend for themselves – it almost doesn’t bear thinking about.”

She feels HOPEHIV has a unique approach: it does not dictate targets, but creates projects and works within a community to affect generational change. The way the charity operates means that as soon as a specific amount has been raised by the group, it can immediately be put to use. Their first £30,000 will be given to the Umthombo group in Durban, which helps street children escape a life of exploitation, drugs and crime.

The team website gives extensive details about each of the 26 members, the challenges they take part in, the projects they are donating to, and the ways in which you can get involved. There will also be frequent updates on individuals the projects have helped.

TeeJay is most terrified about an upcoming squash marathon, in which she will play multiple challengers and be on the court for a total of 12 hours. She admitted that “the practicalities of organising

it are becoming quite real – what do you eat during the day? How much do you drink? Do I actually know 24 people who will agree to play squash with me?”

But any apprehension about physical challenges is easily overcome by the depth of her enthusiasm and belief in the cause: “I have the luxury of choosing to challenge myself up to and often beyond what I believe my own limits are,” she says, “but the people we support through this project don’t have that luxury. They live in the most difficult of circumstances and are often forced into inhumane conditions in order to survive. I can last through a 12-hour game of squash, it if helps to raise money for the work we are doing with HOPE HIV this year.”

There is no sign of the team stopping either – the significant challenge once 12in12 is over in December will be where to take the project next. TeeJay imagines it has the potential to grow exponentially over the next few years: “This incredible team of people, working in partnership with the dedicated team at HOPEHIV, has added a real sense of purpose to my own life. I am proud to be part of it and will happily find the next weird and wonderful challenge to throw myself into, if it means we can carry on raising money and opening new projects to help children that really need it.”

Details: the12in12.com

due process initially, they might said they are going to go player have not annoyed the organiser, (read has-been) shopping in Europe who might have been more (apparently that’s always been accommodating in changing the the plan). So what happened to status quo. The only thing in fulfilling the promise of developing SARU’s favour – and no doubt one the talent in the Eastern Cape? they will be keen to drum home What about a three to five year – is that the plan instead, before broadcaster in The Kings, as we know, jumping headfirst South Africa with hands tied into are the illegitimate (SuperSport) Super Rugby? Why lovechild of SARU and buy everybody’s pays more in TV rights rejects and expect the government. to SANZAR them to play with the than Australia and New Zealand’s big boys? equivalents.

To be fair to the Kings, they’ve The Kings, as we know, are the been mucked about a fair bit, being illegitimate lovechild of SARU told they’re in, then out, and now and the government (in the form of becoming forced entrants. This Cheeky Watson, who incidentally is situation could have been avoided getting a free plane trip to Sydney seven years ago when the Spears to meet with SANZAR). We have (the Kings’ former name) were first seen precious little evidence of a born. One could have had a table proper plan to get them attuned to based on Super 12/14 matches the rigours of Super Rugby. Last between the South African regions week, their coach Alan Solomons only, and the bottom team could

Teejay Jones and the12in12 aim to raise £250,000 this year for HOPEHIV.

have played the Spears/Kings in a three-way promotion play-off. If they couldn’t even beat the worst team, then they wouldn’t deserve to be there. Conversely, if the bottom team got beaten by the pretenders to the throne, then they too could bear no grudges at being replaced.

It’s no use crying over spilt milk though, so here’s my suggestion, and one which I propose in theory only, the mechanics of which can be fleshed out at a later stage. Why doesn’t SARU take the lead into the next era of professional rugby and devise an IPL-style South African Super Rugby conference? Pick five cities, give them each a new team

with a new name and a new strip, and a salary cap (SARU could take it one step further and even privatise their five new franchises and make a bit of dosh there too!).

The next step would be to hold player auctions, tying them in for three-year contracts. There could also be transformation targets to appease government interferers.

The result of this compromise?

Six teams will fit into five, the dilution of players across six teams will be avoided, and we’d forget about the problem currently at hand, with genuine excitement at something new. Perhaps SARU would even be seen as pioneers.

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SPORT IN BRIEF

by WESLEY MCKAY

Rugby: SCHALK Brits, George Kruis and Petrus Du Plessis signed new deals with Saracens.

Cricket: SOUTH Africa beat New Zealand 254 for 4 in a 50-over match at Westpac Stadium in Wellington on 25 February. AB de Villiers was named man of the match.

Football: MZWANDILE Maforvane, an executive member of the South African Football Association, said senior members of the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee were “enriching themselves” with money from the National Lottery Board, meant for sport. The The Spring Tag Rugby competitions start on 4 March and are a great way for those new to London to make new friends.

Spring Fever for London Tag Rugby Spaces are filling up quickly for Spring Tag Rugby, so get involved now!

by STAFF REPORTER WITH the Spring Tag Rugby season starting on Sunday, 4 March, this week will see Late Winter Tag Rugby finals take place at Barnes, Bermondsey and Borough.

The first final will take place on Tuesday in the Borough men’s league between The Hardy Boyz, led by London South Africa Tag Rugby representative Robbie Burroughs, and Champions of Capua. The last time these sides met was back on 24 January, in which The Hardy Boyz walked away with a 14-7 victory.

On Thursday at Barnes, Moves Like Tagger will be taking on Tagging Around in the final.

Moves Like Tagger led by England Tag Rugby representative Alastair Mant will be hard to beat with two victories already recorded over Tagging Around this season (8-2 and 10-0).

At Bermondsey, Double Scrum & Coke will take on Speights in a final of epic proportions. These two teams last clashed on 16 February with Double Scrum & Coke sealing a last minute 9-8 win over Speights. This final is going to be a nailbiter!

In other news, the first of four Great Britain and Ireland World Cup open trials took place last Friday with Bacon’s College, Rotherhithe the venue. The next open trial to take place will be on

Friday 2 March at the same venue with any South Africans eligible for Great Britain and Ireland welcome to attend. All World Cup open trial details can be found at www.trytagrugby.com Meanwhile, the Spring Tag Rugby competitions starting on Sunday 4 March are filling up fast.

If you would like to get involved in one of the fastest growing sports in London, new team and individual registrations are welcome. This is a great chance to develop a network of friends if you are new to London.

To register for a Try Tag Rugby competition, go to www. trytagrugby.com or email info@ trytagrugby.com for more details.

association distanced itself from Maforvane’s letter, which was written on its letterhead.

Tennis: KEVIN Anderson was defeated by Sean Querrey in the second round of the Regions Morgan Keegan championship in Memphis, USA.

Hockey: THE South African women’s hockey team booked itself a place in the Olympics after defeating India 3-1 in the final of the Olympic qualifying tournament in New Delhi on Saturday.

Golf: LOUIS Oosthuyzen, Charl Schwartzel and Ernie Els crashed out of the WGC at the Ritz-Carlton golf course in Arizona.

WE WANT YOUR SPORT STORIES Send your sport stories and pics to editor@thesouthafrican.com

SPORT

28 February – 5 March 2012

TEEJAY JONES AND THE TWELVE IN TWELVE 18

SPRING FEVER FOR LONDON TAG RUGBY 19

NEWS FOR GLOBAL SOUTH AFRICANS

www.thesouthafrican.com

SUPER RUGBY KICKS OFF Action-packed weekend of rugby with Stormers, Bulls and Lions emerging victorious

T

by STAFF REPORTER he Super Rugby season started with the Bulls beating the Sharks 18-13, the Lions defeating the Cheetahs 27-25 and the Stormers scoring a 39-26 win over Wellington Hurricanes. The Brumbies, coached by Jake White, defeated the Western Force 19-17.

After a mistake-laden first half at Loftus Versfeld on Friday, with the Bulls making 11 handling errors, the first points of the match were only scored in the 43rd minute.

The Bulls were in improved form at the start of the second half with Morne Steyn scoring a penalty kick. The visitors struck back two minutes later with flyhalf Pat Lambie finally succeeding on his third attempt. The Pretoria-based side enjoyed most of the possession but they struggled to pierce the Sharks’ defences.

Bulls lock Juandre Kruger was named Man of the Match in a star performance that confirms he could be the answer to the void left by Victor Matfield.

Scorers Bulls: Penalties - Morne Steyn (5); Dropgoal - Steyn Sharks: Try - Jacques Botes; Conversion - Pat Lambie; Penalties - Lambie (2) The following day at Ellis Park, Elton Jantjies landed nine penalties to take the Lions 27-25 to the Cheetahs.

Jantjies' ninth shot in the 74th minute gave the Lions the lead for the first time since the opening 10 minutes.

Cheetahs prop WP Nel scored the only try.

Scorers Lions:

Man of the Match, Elton Jantjies of the Lions, scores a penalty during the Super Rugby match between the Lions and the Cheetahs. Photo by Getty Images.

Penalties - Elton Jantjies (9) Cheetahs: Try - WP Nel; Conversion - Johan Goosen; Penalties - Goosen (5); Drop goal - Goosen The Stormers may have beaten the Hurricanes at Newlands on Saturday but suffered a setback when captain Schalk Burger was injured early on. The Springbok flank twisted his left knee in a tackle in the 14th minute and left the field on a stretcher. He was

immediately taken to hospital for a scan and is expected to be out for four to six weeks.

With the New Zealand visitors reduced to 13 men after props Tristan Moran and Ben May were given yellow cards, the Stormers charged into a 23-9 lead after 35 minutes. Burger's replacement Siya Kolisi and Gio Aplon scored tries but the Hurricanes came back into the game when centre Tim Bateman scored a converted try.

Despite conceding the bulk of possession, the Hurricanes drew level seven minutes after half-time when Beauden Barrett intercepted a floated pass from stand-in Stormers captain Jean de Villiers to score a try he converted.

Referee Marius Jonker issued a white card when an unidentified Hurricanes player tripped Stormers centre Bryan Habana. A third prop was yellow-carded late in the game for collapsing a Stormers driving

maul that resulted in a penalty try.

Scorers Stormers: Tries - Gio Aplon, Siya Kolisi, penalty try; Conversions - Joe Pietersen (3); Penalties - Pietersen (5); Drop goal - Gary van Aswegen Hurricanes: Tries - Tim Bateman, Beauden Barrett; Conversions - Barrett (2); Penalties - Barrett (4) www.thesouthafrican.com/sport