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Wits Theatre brings a gripping reimagining of YaëlFarber’s MOLORA to the National Arts Festival this June, directed and adapted by the talented Tshepang Sehole. Running on the Fringe from 26 June to 3 July at St Andrews Hall in Makhanda, MOLORA is a physical theatre work that confronts the wounds of the past and offers …
Young talent is plentiful in South Africa but when talent, opportunity and creative vision collide, young artists emerge who set the benchmark for their contemporaries and change the narrative of South African culture. As we celebrate Youth Month in 2025, the National Arts Festival will celebrate the Standard Bank Young Artists – a unique and …
The National Arts Festival (NAF) is delighted to announce two new appointments to its Board of Directors. At its meeting held on Thursday, 22 May, the NAF Board appointed Prof Siphiwo Mahala as its new Chairperson and welcomed Mr Keith Ngesi as a new board member. Both Mahala and Ngesi are proud descendants of Makhanda …
Considered one of South Africa’s best and most prolific playwrights, Athol Fugard’s body of work was shaped by Apartheid into a form of protest; highlighting its brutal impact through memorable characters and atmospheric stories. In memory of this South African theatre giant, who passed away in March this year, the National Arts Festival in collaboration …
A bright new voice in theatre, Campbell Meas, has been announced as the winner of the 2025 National Playwright Competition with her play Vakavigwa (Burials/They were buried). The competition, facilitated by the National Arts Festival with the support of HEINEKEN Beverages, sees a countrywide call for new plays in any language. Meas joins an alumnus […]
One year after its 50th milestone, the National Arts Festival reclaims its rebel roots with an energetic programme that channels the restlessness of the times and the promise of an invigorating cultural escape. Hosted in its home town of Makhanda in the Eastern Cape, between 26 June and 6 July, audiences can look forward to […]
Call for stricter bail measures for crimes against wildlife
The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has called for stricter bail measures for repeat offenders and foreign nationals with no fixed address who are accused of crimes against wildlife.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is actively engaging with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and South African Police Service (SAPS) through platforms like the National Biodiversity Investigators Forum (NBIF) to enhance opposition to bail, particularly for repeat offenders and foreign nationals with no fixed address.
“These discussions focus on improving the quality of affidavits drafted by investigating officers to present stronger cases in court. The department is also sharing best-practice affidavits with investigators to ensure more effective bail opposition and is exploring options to secure funding for dedicated support to SAPS in these applications.
“Additionally, at the upcoming Environmental Management Inspectors (EMI) executive training in April 2025, the NPA will address bail-related issues, allowing for direct engagement with the Minister and other stakeholders,” the department said on Tuesday.
In February, Thomas Chauke, a 54-year-old Zimbabwean national, was convicted and sentenced in the Makhanda High Court to 110 years’ imprisonment for rhino poaching and wildlife-related crimes.
The Minister commended the SAPS, particularly the Stock Theft and Endangered Species (STES) Unit, for their meticulous investigation and dedication in securing this victory against rhino poaching and wildlife-related crimes.
“Chauke’s conviction on six counts of rhino poaching and wildlife-related offences, alongside three counts of escaping lawful custody, underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to combatting environmental crime.
“This landmark sentencing, coupled with these strategic interventions, sends a powerful message to those involved in illegal wildlife trafficking and environmental destruction,” the Minister said.
He applauded the collaborative efforts between the SAPS and the NPA, which ensured effective coordination and prosecution across multiple provinces, including the Eastern Cape, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and North West.
George reiterated his support for ongoing efforts to protect South Africa’s precious biodiversity and natural heritage, ensuring that perpetrators face the full might of the law. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 04/15/2025 - 11:39
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Fugitive rhino poacher sentenced to 110 years' imprisonment
In a major breakthrough in the fight against rhino poaching and wildlife-related crimes, a 54-year-old Zimbabwean national and wanted fugitive, Thomas Chauke, also known as Sazu Nkambuya, has been convicted and sentenced to 110 years’ imprisonment by the Makhanda High Court.
This follows an extensive and meticulous investigation by detectives from the South African Police Service (SAPS) Head Office, Stock Theft and Endangered Species (STES) Unit.
Chauke was found guilty on six counts related to rhino poaching and wildlife related crimes, as well as three counts of escaping from lawful custody.
“The accused was a fugitive, wanted for multiple charges on rhino poaching and wildlife related cases in the Eastern Cape, Gauteng, KwaZulu Natal and North West. He was also linked to several cases, including armed robbery, rape and kidnapping," the South African Police Service (SAPS) said in a statement.
The SAPS said Chauke had previously been incarcerated at Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Services, where he was serving five life sentences for violent crimes, including rape, armed, robbery and kidnapping. He escaped from custody on 9 December 2020, prompting further investigation and search efforts by STES.
Following his arrest in 2024, the STES team coordinated the centralisation of multiple dockets from various provinces and liaised with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), to ensure effective coordination and successful prosecution of the accused.
On 28 February 2025, Chauke pleaded guilty to all rhino poaching and wild life related cases, including three counts of escaping from lawful custody, and was sentenced to 110 years imprisonment by the Makhanda High Court.
"The STES team remains dedicated to safeguarding both wildlife and the community from individuals engaged in criminal activities and ensuring that those responsible are brought to book and held accountable," the SAPS said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 04/15/2025 - 09:28
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The National Arts Festival and Standard Bank are proud to announce the 2025 recipients of the Standard Bank Young Artist Awards (SBYA). As the awards reach the milestone anniversary of 40 years, a new generation of trailblazers take their place in this storied legacy. These are six exceptional artists who are not just reflecting the …
The National Playwright Competition, supported by HEINEKEN Beverages, has selected four dynamic finalists, now on the road to being selected as the overall winner and having their play staged at the 2025 National Arts Festival. The competition was created to give a voice and platform to emerging playwrights, while also providing invaluable mentorship and support …
A collaborative water testing project in 115 high schools across five provinces equips students with the knowledge and tools to protect South Africa’s water quality. “Water checked, future secured” is the slogan of the WaterCAN Youth Collective’s water testing project for high school students. The recently launched project aims to empower teachers and students as …
Contractor is taking Matatiele Local Municipality to court over unpaid fees
Archbishop calls for immediate removal of mayor, speaker and chief financial officer
The National Arts Festival congratulates former CEO, Tony Lankester, on the announcement of his appointment as the new CEO of the Edinburgh Fringe. Lankester was CEO of the National Festival from 2007-2019 and has a long association with Makhanda, having read Journalism and Media Studies at Rhodes University before a stint in broadcasting, followed by …
On Friday, Andiswa Mengo completed her testimony on sexual harassment allegations against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge
Strike since Monday at Dora Nginza Hospital over unpaid overtime
This after former Chief Justice Raymond Zondo was not “satisfied” with the initial complaint and secretary Andiswa Menga was told to lodge it anew
Secretary lied under oath, judge’s advocate claims
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal hearing a complaint of sexual harassment against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge heard cross examination on Tuesday
The hearing of a complaint of sexual harassment against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge has entered its second week
Judicial Conduct Tribunal into complaint of sexual harassment against Judge President Selby Mbenenge resumes Monday
Cross examination deals with salacious messages on day four of Judge Selby Mbenenge’s disciplinary tribunal
Third day of testimony held before Judicial Conduct Tribunal into sexual harassment complaint against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge
Second day of testimony held before Judicial Conduct Tribunal into sexual harassment complaint against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge.
