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IOL News
21 hours ago
- Politics
- IOL News
Community fights for the future of sports fields
Rajesh Jankee, Dhevan Pillay, Prakash Singh, Trevor Henry, Rakesh Brijmohan and Sham Maharaj, at the Eastbury sports field. Image: Yoshini Perumal COMMUNITY and sporting leaders are 'sick of the corruption' which they claim has led to the deterioration of sports fields in Phoenix. Sham Maharaj, of the Phoenix Working Committee, said they had been fighting the Phoenix Infill Housing project since 2018, and was grateful that the city had stopped developments on sports fields after the protest. Trevor Henry at the section of land that was cleared at the Eastbury sports field Image: Yoshini Perumal Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ 'The fact that the city's speaker, Thabani Nyawose, said they had no idea that land around the Eastbury sports field was being cleared, showed us the level of corruption we are dealing with. 'We told him that the officials need to open their eyes, as land owned by the city was being snatched from them due to corrupt officials in parks and corrupt councillors. We are sick of corruption. We caught wind that there were several developers doing business with the council and that the sports grounds, which had been left to deteriorate, were being sold for R36 000. 'Each piece of land, no matter its size, was sold for R36 000. A developer was buying the land, putting an exorbitant mark-up on it, and reselling it. The land is only developed by the third or fourth developer, who eventually paid millions for the land. 'The question is, who is making money in between? The developers approved by council are not the developers doing the job. It is no longer low cost housing but middle to high income houses which are being built. We welcome the halting of this project,' Maharaj added. He said a consultation process between officials and the community was needed so that the city could properly investigate the claims. Dhevan Pillay, of the Foresthaven Sports Club, said a developer had attended a Local Football Association (LFA) meeting last year to discuss how he could work with them to operate a flea market and bar at the Eastbury sports field. 'Somebody signed off on the lease for this land. The developer wanted to collaborate with us. But we opposed it as we did not want children who use the field to be exposed to alcohol, drugs, vaping or smoking. This is not the ethos of sport. 'We were told that the developer also wanted to operate a tyre shop and a car wash from the area. We cannot have children playing in the field while there are people driving in and out of the sports area. Now the councillors are backtracking because they were caught out for their underhanded dealings. They think we are fools,' Pillay said. Meanwhile, the local football associations were calling for the city to make the rezoning process for sports fields a priority. 'While the rezoning process is being completed, a lease agreement must be provided to the LFA to safeguard these sports fields. We also need upgrading and maintenance of sports facilities in Phoenix. The parks department must prioritise the upgrade and maintenance of all sporting facilities in Phoenix, including proper functioning change rooms, clean and usable toilets, and general facility improvement. 'Safety is a primary concern. We request that lights, secure fencing, and proper security measures be put in place to ensure the safety and usability of all sports fields, particularly in the evenings,' he added. Prakash Singh, of the Longcroft Falcons Football Club, said Phoenix still had a rich football heritage, which needed to be acknowledged by the city. 'We demand the construction of a fully-equipped football stadium in Phoenix to serve as a home for our clubs and a beacon for youth development. We propose that local football clubs be given the opportunity, individually or jointly, to formally adopt and take stewardship of specific sports fields within Phoenix under an agreed partnership with the municipality,' he added. Sunny Singh, 74, a founding member of the Phoenix Football Association, said the deceased founding members would be 'turning in their graves' to see the state of some of the sports fields in Phoenix. He said in the 1970s, community leaders struggled to get open spaces declared as sports fields and soccer grounds. 'Many of us had to pitch in and dig into our own pockets to put in goal posts, and pay for the digging of the holes and the cement. It was hard work. 'In 1977, the association was formed and we did whatever it took to ensure that soccer thrived. The ground neighhboured my home and I connected electricity from my house when matches were held. I was also the unofficial master of ceremonies,' reminisced Singh. He said the late Dan Manickum, who was a sports writer, was nominated as first president and he was the first vice president of the association. 'It was a hollow feeling, hearing about the sports fields being earmarked for developments. We struggled to get sports fields opened for the community. Now, the grounds are being left to deteriorate so that it can be taken away. Dan and others, who fought for children to have sports fields and playgrounds, are turning in their graves because of what is happening. Government encourages children to play sports to stay out of drugs and courts, but how can they allow this to happen? The community must also rekindle the enthusiasm people had for soccer,' added Singh. He said in Redfern, housing was already built on a soccer field.
IOL News
5 days ago
- Health
- IOL News
Rising cancer and heart disease cases drive R6. 62 Billion payout by one of South Africa's largest insurers
The latest data point to shifting health challenges facing South Africans today Image: Freepik Cancer, heart disease, and other lifestyle-related conditions contributed to a significant increase in insurance claims in 2024, with Sanlam Risk and Savings paying out R6.62 billion up 9.24% from the previous year. According to the company, the latest data 'point to shifting health challenges facing South Africans today – evidenced by increases in claims for illnesses like heart disease, certain cancers and musculoskeletal disorders, and mental health concerns.' Key 2024 claims statistics R5.47 billion in death and funeral claims R501.6 million in disability, loss of income, and impairment claims R650.3 million in severe illness and injury claims Over the past six years, Sanlam has paid out more than R36 billion in claims, with 2024 ranking among the highest annual totals second only to the Covid-19 peak in 2021. Cancer accounted for 54% of all severe illness claims, with the number of cancer-related claims rising 30% year-on-year. Prostate cancer claims in men doubled Breast cancer claims in women rose 33% Cardiovascular conditions made up 20% of death claims and 17% of disability claims. Sanlam paid out more than 99% of all death claims in 2024, with the highest single claim reaching R36.2 million Dr Marion Morkel, Sanlam's Chief Medical Officer, pointed out that lifestyle diseases are becoming a major driver of claims. 'The World Health Organisation recommends that annual health screenings and checks start in our 30s and we urge South Africans to prioritise these as part of their yearly routine," she said. 'Cancer claims under the severe Illness category rose by 30% year-on-year – prostate claims doubled in men and breast cancer claims rose 33% in women. These increases, while concerning, are partly the result of the knock-on effect of the Covid-19 pandemic with proactive screenings having been delayed for several years.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ The data also showed a rise in stroke and musculoskeletal disorders among women, including women in the younger age groups (pre-50). Rhoderic Nel, Sanlam Risk and Savings Chief Executive said currently about 24% of all living benefit claims are from clients younger than 35 years old, with increases being seen in income protection claims. 'Currently about 24% of all living benefit claims are from clients younger than 35 years old, with increases being seen in income protection claims (up from 15% in 2022 to around 25% in 2024). It's a sobering reminder that life-changing illness can strike at any age. Being financially prepared isn't something to delay – it's something to start now.' IOL Business Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel
IOL News
15-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
From schoolboy rugby to Italy Jason Hendricks takes his first international step
Hoërskool Birchleigh's Jason Hendricks in action on the field. The loose forward and inside centre has been selected for a 10-day rugby tour in Italy this October. Image: Supplied When 16-year-old Jason Hendricks first laced up his rugby boots in Grade 8, inspired by watching his father Kyle on the field, he couldn't have imagined that sport would soon carry him across continents. Now in Grade 11 at Hoërskool Birchleigh, Jason is preparing to board a plane for his international tour - an unforgettable 10-day journey to Italy as part of the prestigious Danie Rossouw Rugby Tour. "I was shocked," Jason said, as he recalled the moment he found out. "Especially when I found out I was the only 16-year-old in my school to feature in an under-19 tour team for Italy. I am excited for the journey ahead." Jason Hendricks, 16, shares a proud moment with his parents, Kyle and Lauren, after being selected for the Danie Rossouw Rugby Tour to Italy. The Hoërskool Birchleigh learner is following in his father's rugby footsteps Image: Supplied The tour, which runs from 6-15 October, will see Jason and his teammates play matches against local rugby clubs in Rovigo, Volpolicella, and Brescia. But it is not just rugby that awaits - Jason will also visit Venice, Verona and Milan, explore the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, and enjoy a day at Gardaland, one of Europe's top amusement parks. "I am excited about Venice. I've heard that it is a beautiful city," he said. "I also cannot wait to try out their Italian food." Jason hopes the trip will sharpen his rugby skills and broaden his worldview. "I want to learn some Italian words and improve my game," he said. "It's my first time travelling overseas." The selection came as a surprise to the Hendricks family, who learned the news through an announcement at school. "We were proud and excited when we received the news about Jason's opportunity," said his mom, Lauren. "With Jason being chosen, we are happy that the Hendricks legacy will continue." It is a legacy deeply rooted in South African rugby. His father played for the Emerging Springboks Sevens, represented the Valke Rugby Union in over 100 matches, and earned more than 50 caps with Vereeniging Rugby Club. "From playing schoolboy rugby to provincial level and beyond - it's been a long road," Kyle said. "I am proud of Jason's achievement and hope that he can one day go further in his rugby career than I could have." Jason currently plays both loose forward and inside centre for the Kempton Park Hoërskool Birchleigh's first team. He never misses a Springbok game and counts Cheslin Kolbe among his role models. His teachers and schoolmates have rallied behind him. "All my friends and teachers congratulated me on a job well done and wished me all the best for the tour," said Jason. The Hendricks family is now working with the school, their church, and relatives to raise funds for the trip, which costs over R36 000 excluding the visa, passport and spending money. Contributions can be made directly to: Beneficiary name: JC Hendricks Bank: Capitec Bank Account number: 231 099 3650 Branch Code: 470010 As the departure date approaches, Kyle offers his son the kind of advice only a seasoned sportsman - and a father - can give. "My hope is that Jason does not lose himself," he said. "That he keeps his feet on the ground and stays humble in all that he does." As a mother, Lauren shares in the pride and emotion of watching her son take flight. "Truthfully, I have mixed emotions ranging from pride that he was chosen for this opportunity, excitement that he will be experiencing new sights, sounds and cultures and a bit apprehensive that he is leaving the nest at 16 for an unknown environment. However, I hope he has a blast and will cherish the experience for the rest of his life." If all goes according to plan, Jason's Italian adventure may just be the first chapter in a long and promising rugby career
IOL News
14-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
eThekwini ratepayer associations warn against 'superficial' 50 percent debt relief measure
The Bluff Ratepayers and Residents Association said that the eThekwini municipality's proposed 50% debt write-off is a welcome gesture, but it risks being more of a tick-box exercise than a real solution. Image: File The Bluff Ratepayers and Residents Association said that the eThekwini municipality's proposed 50% debt write-off is a welcome gesture, but it risks being more of a tick-box exercise than a real solution. Norman Gilbert, chairman of the BRRA said that while it may offer short-term relief to struggling households and businesses, it doesn't address the deeper issues causing the debt—like poor service delivery, aging infrastructure, and unaffordable tariffs. Ethekwini councillors gave the special debt relief programme the go-ahead at a council meeting on Wednesday. The water debt as at the end of January 2025, of R14.7 billion was the biggest contributor, due to undetected underground leaks and short payments by insurers. The municipality has found that many customers are unable to settle these debts and thus regarded this as irrecoverable. The programme is an initiative aimed at reducing municipal debt by offering residents and businesses a 50% write-off, provided they pay the balance in full before the end of the financial year. Other conditions include that prior to the customer settling the 50% of the arrear debt owed as at 31 January 2025, a customer must settle the entire debt from February 2025 to April 2025. The municipality stated that should a customer not be in a financial position to settle the debt for the months after 31 January 2025, that such a customer must enter into a payment plan not exceeding six months, without making any down payment. The total debtors book for the municipality, as of 31 January 2025 was R36 billion which grew significantly by R7.9 billion, when compared to January 2024. Government departments and parastatals owe the municipality R1.3 billion. Gilbert stated that the water debt highlights systemic failures that have been ignored for too long. 'Similarly, R9 billion in unpaid rates and billions in household debt show just how unaffordable basic services have become for many residents. This isn't just about non-payment, it is about survival. The situation is worsened by government debt, which sends the wrong message to the public and undermines the municipality's debt recovery efforts,' he said. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Gilbert stated that while the debt relief proposal could help reduce the growing debt book, it lacks a long-term plan to prevent the same problem from recurring. Ish Prahladh, chairperson of the eThekwini Ratepayers and Residents Association (ERRA), stated that ratepayers should be given oversight on municipal finances to put an end to tenders, advocate for competent staff and unnecessary overtime expenditure and consultancy fees. 'A municipal debt write-off will definitely benefit residents. Pensioners earn R2,000 but have to pay a R6,000 municipal bill (and this) makes life impossible for some residents. Hire competent plumbers to rectify the problems in the water department and cut our water losses to zero. Water insurance is pathetic as it does not cover the amount that is lost by the residents," Prahladh said.
IOL News
09-05-2025
- IOL News
Violence erupts in Limpopo as community demands justice for crime victims
One person has been murdered while others are injured after angry community members attacked people accused of links to crime in Malamulele, Limpopo. In another related incident, police at Malamulele were alerted to a mob attack on Wednesday night in which four people suspected of being responsible for the gruesome murder, which happened on Tuesday, were attacked by angry community members. Rubber bullets were used to disperse agitated crowds which had gathered, while police say the arrested community member will be charged accordingly. Police said one community member has been arrested following 'violent criminal acts' which took place at the Malamulele police station. Provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has appealed for calm, after violence erupted in the Malamulele policing area as community members reacted to an incident of heinous crime in the area. 'Sadly one of the so-called suspects has succumbed and a case of murder and three of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm have been opened for further investigation,' the police said. IOL reported on Thursday that police in Limpopo have launched a 'massive' manhunt for two men wanted for crimes including rape, murder and house robbery at a house. The horrific incident happened at Malamulele, where a father and his children were asleep at night. 'It is alleged that on Tuesday, at about 2:30am, a 43-year-old father of two victims was asleep inside his bedroom when he heard the door opening forcefully and unexpectedly he saw two unknown males covering their faces with balaclavas,' said provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba. The father was pointed at with a firearm, and the intruders demanded money and cellphones. However, the father only gave the assailants a cellphone and told them he did not have money. The father was then tied with a rope, and the duo proceeded to other rooms in the house, where they found the children sleeping. In the aftermath, the 43-year-old father heard multiple gunshots. He managed to untie himself and rushed to check on his children. 'The victim found his 20-year-old son lying on the floor, bleeding heavily with a gunshot wound on the forehead,' said Mashaba. The father then rushed to the other room and discovered that his 17-year-old daughter had been raped by one of the intruders. 'Furthermore, the suspects fled the scene in possession of stolen properties comprising a cellphone, a laptop, a chainsaw, a television set, a bicycle and a grinder valued at R36,300,' said Mashaba. Both victims were rushed to the local hospital for medical attention, but the 20-year-old son succumbed to his injuries. Meanwhile, media reports emerged that violent protests erupted as the community demanded justice for the victims of crime. The provincial police commissioner, Hadebe, has assured the agitated community that systems are in place to respond to the 'horrific' incident. She appealed to the community to work with the police. Memorandums by the Malamulele community were handed over at meetings held with different stakeholders on Wednesday and Thursday. Hadebe said the engagements have paved a way to stabilize the area, while police investigate the crimes. "Issues raised in the memorandum will be attended to as soon as possible, and police have already deployed all the available resources in the area. The SAPS Tactical Response Team and other forces, as well as the provincial investigation task team, murder and robbery unit are already making good progress on these cases,' said Hadebe. She said the community will be briefed on progress in the investigations. 'I appeal that the community give the police space to do the groundwork to normalize the situation,' said Hadebe. Cape Argus
