As the College of Cardinals prepares to elect a new pope, they face weighty questions—beyond whether the Church should appoint its first African or Asian pontiff, or choose between a conservative or progressive candidate.&nbsp;&nbsp;Despite coming from 70 different countries, the 133 cardinals appear broadly united in their mission: to elect a pope who can make the 2,000-year-old Catholic Church both credible and relevant today—particularly to younger generations.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is no small task. Financial scandals, sexual abuse cases, and growing secularism in many parts of the world have deeply tarnished the Church's reputation and drawn people away from organised religion.&nbsp;&nbsp;Add to this the Vatican’s dire financial situation and a bureaucracy often described as dysfunctional, and the role of pope in the 21st century can seem nearly unmanageable.&nbsp;&nbsp;The process of choosing this leader begins in earnest on Wednesday afternoon, when the cardinals solemnly enter the Sistine Chapel to the meditative chant of the Litany of the Saints. Beneath Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring Last Judgment, they take an oath of secrecy, listen to a reflection by a senior cardinal, and then cast their first votes.&nbsp;&nbsp;If no candidate secures the required two-thirds majority—89 votes—the cardinals suspend the session for the day and return on Thursday. Thereafter, they vote twice in the morning and twice in the afternoon until a new pope is elected.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Church in AfricaAccording to 2023 Vatican statistics, Catholics make up just 3.3% of Asia’s population, though numbers are growing, especially among seminarians. The same trend is seen in Africa, where Catholics represent around 20% of the population. By comparison, Catholics comprise 64% of the population in the Americas, 40% in Europe, and 26% in Oceania.&nbsp;Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, Archbishop of Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo, stated that he was in Rome to help elect a pope for the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.&nbsp;Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco, the outspoken Archbishop of Algiers in Algeria, recently lamented the limited time cardinals had to get to know one another—many had never met before. With participants hailing from 70 countries, this conclave is the most geographically diverse in Church history.&nbsp;&nbsp;Voting BlocsItaly has the largest number of cardinal-electors with 17, followed by the United States with 10. Brazil has 7, while France and Spain each have 5.&nbsp;Argentina, Canada, India, Poland, and Portugal each contribute 4 electors.&nbsp;Here is the regional breakdown of the 135 cardinal-electors, based on Vatican statistics and geographic classification:&nbsp;Europe: 53 (though one elector from Spain has declared he will not participate, reducing the number to 52)Asia (including the Middle East): 23Africa: 18 (with one Kenyan elector not participating, the effective number is 17)South America: 17North America: 16 (including 10 Americans, 4 Canadians, and 2 Mexicans)Central America: 4Oceania: 4 (1 each from Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and Tonga)&nbsp;&nbsp;Source: africanews&nbsp;

Is An African Pope A Priority For The Next Conclave?

The trial of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs is set to begin on Monday. He denies the charges of sex trafficking, racketeering with conspiracy and transportation for prostitution. So what should we expect at the start?Criminal defence attorney Shaun Kent explains how lawyers for the prosecution and defence will be making their opening statements as persuasive as possible.Veteran sketch artist Jane Rosenberg shares her four decades of courtroom experience with presenter Anoushka Mutanda-Dougherty. She will be in court most days, drawing sketches of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs for the world to see.The Diddy on Trial podcast is here to investigate the rumours, confront the theories, and give you the answers that you need.We also want YOU to be part of the conversation. Have you any burning questions about the cases or the upcoming trial? Heard a theory that doesn’t sit right with you? Get in touch now via WhatsApp: 0330 123 555 1.Presenter: Anoushka Mutanda-Dougherty
Series Producer: Laura Jones
Sound Design: Richard Hannaford
Video producer: Daniel Raza
Production Coordinator: Hattie Valentine
Editor: Clare FordhamCommissioning Editor: Rhian Roberts
Assistant Commissioner: Will Drysdale
Commissioning Producer: Adam Eland
Commissioning Assistant Producer: Rechmial Miller

The Start Of Diddy’s Trial: What To Expect

Shauwn “MaMkhize” Mkhize has gone public with her players’ payslips, and some of them are massive.The Royal AM boss revealed the monthly salaries of her squad in court papers, trying to prove her club isn’t broke after being kicked out of the Premier Soccer League.The league claims Royal AM missed matches because they ran out of money. But MaMkhize is fighting back with bank statements.According to Sunday World, she handed over payment records showing players were paid on 14 February, just days after the league suspended a R2.3-million grant and SARS took action over unpaid tax.She says the club is still running, and those salaries prove it.Defender Thabo Matlaba topped the list, pocketing R121,000 for the month. Midfielder Kabelo Mahlasela followed with R93,500, and Shadrack Kobedi earned R80,000.At the other end of the scale, Mnguni took home just R2,000, with others like Sbanga Zulu (R6,900), Smiso Gumede (R4,950), and goalkeeper Aphile Ngobese (R7,916) also earning much less.MaMkhize says curator Jaco Venter, brought in by the court over a R200-million SARS debt, made things worse instead of helping.She’s now asked the Johannesburg High Court to decide on the matter before the season wraps up, with the hearing set for 20 May.Pictured above: Royal AM owner Shauwn ‘MaMkhize’ Mkhize.Image source: MamKhize Instagram

MaMkhize: Royal AM Not Broke, Here’s Proof

The winners of the 2025 edition of Urban Music Awards held at the Heartfelt Arena in Pretoria on 3 May, with hip hop heavyweight Priddy Ugly walking away as Artist of the Year and Best Hip Hop Act, solidifying his status as one of the country’s most influential voices in the genre.

Kamo Mphela was awarded Best Female Act, Best Live Performance, and the coveted Best Music Video for her explosive hit ‘Dalie’ alongside Khalil Harrison and Tyler ICU. Her triumph further cements her reputation as a dynamic force in dance music.
Mawelele claimed Best Newcomer, signalling a fresh chapter for Afrocentric urban sounds, while Mellow & Sleezy took home Best Group, beating out industry giants like Joyous Celebration and Major League DJz.
Collaboration proved to be a highlight this year. The hard-hitting single ‘Skuta Baba’ by Woodblock DJs, Cassper Nyovest, and Kwesta won Best Collaboration, and Best International Collaboration went to the much-anticipated duet ‘No.1’ between global stars Tyla and Tems. Nigerian powerhouse Davido was named International Artist of the Year, edging out contenders like Burna Boy and Wizkid.
In genre-specific categories, DJ Maphorisa dominated amapiano with a win for Best Amapiano Act, while Dlala Thukzin impressed in the electronic scene with wins for Best Gqom Act and Best Producer. Black Coffee reaffirmed his legacy by clinching Best House Music Act.
Now in its 21st edition, the Urban Music Awards continue to reflect the evolving soundscape of African music, merging local rhythms with global influences and highlighting both established and emerging talent.
Below is the full list of winners:
Artist of the Year

Priddy Ugly
Tyla
Kabza De Small
Lwah Ndlunkulu
Kelvin Momo
Usimamane
Zee Nxumalo
KO

Best Male Act

Mthunzi
Kabza De Small
uGatsheni
Kelvin Momo
Blxxie
Usimamane
Scotts Maphumas Maphuma
Lee-Mac
Casper Nyovest
Oscar Mbo

Best Female Act

Kamo Mphela
Tyla
Lwah Ndlunkulu
DJ Zinhle
Ami Faku
Makhadzi
Nkosazana Daughter
Uncle Waffles
Boohle
Mawhoo
Babalwa M
Brenda Mtambo

Best Newcomer

Mawelele
Naledi Aphiwe
Lwah Ndlunkulu
Scotts Maphuma
Joliza
Neo Dube
Tony Dayimane
Usimamane
Dee Koala
LaTique
LeeMcKrazy

Best Group

Mellow & Sleezy
Artwork Sounds
Black Motion
Shakes & Les
Justin 99 & PC
Major League
Skorpion Kings
Joyous Celebration
Shakes & Les
Die Antwoord

Best Collaboration

Woodblock Djs, Casper, Kwesta – ‘Skuta Baba’
Kabza De Small & Mthunzi – ‘Isimo’
Mellow & Sleazy, Sjavas De Deejay, TitoM – ‘Imnadi Lento’
Die Piesangskille and Johan Balt – ‘Almal Gly’
Tyla & DJ Lag – ‘Overdue’
Makhadzi & Master KG – ‘Kulakwe’
Elaine & Blxckie – ‘Loving You’
KO & Nasty C – ‘Too Much’
Scotts Maphuma, Maphorisa – ‘Biri Marung’
Scotts Maphuma, Felo Le Tee, Thabza Tee – ‘Yebo Lapho’

Best Album

25k – Loyal to the Plug
Kabza De Small & Mthunzi – Isimo
De Mthuda – Baba Yaga
Daliwonga – Dali Dali
Kelvin Momo – Kurhula
Tyla – Tyla
Brenda Mtambo – Sane
Morda – Crazy
Pretty Ugly – Dust
Sjava – Isbuko
AKA – Mass Country

Best Amapiano Act

DJ Maphorisa
Kabza De Small
Kelvin Momo
De Mthuda
Amos
Felo Le Tee
Leemackrazy
Scotts Maphuma
Uncle Waffles
Baballwa M
Tyla ICU
Zee Nxumalo

Best Hip Hop Act

Priddy Ugly
Nasty C
A-Reece
Cassper Nyovest
Blxckie
Kwesta
Usimamane
Maglera Doe Boy
Yanga Chief
K.O

Best Gqom Act

Dlala Thukzin
Mr Thela
DJ Lag
RudeBoyz
TNS
Dladla Mshunqisi
Goldmax
DJ Tira
Bhuda M
Sparks Bantwana

Best Afro Pop Act

Blaq Diamond
Lwah Ndlunkulu
Big Zulu
Aubrey
Ntate Stunna
Vusi Nova
Sjava
Simmy
Sun-El Musician
Kelly Khumalo

Best House Music Act

Black Coffee
DJ Zinhle
Culoe De Song
Euphonik
Heavy K
Shimza
Prince Kaybee
Da Capo
DJ Jaivane

Best R&B Act

Langa Mavuso
Elaine
Lloyiso
Ricky Tyler
Jesse Clegg
Rowlene
Shekhinah
Tellaman
Brenden Praise
Vusi Nova

Best Jazz Act

Simphiwe Dana
Judith Sephuma
Marcus Wyatt
Rorisang Sechele
Nick Ford
Lucas Senyatso
Siyabonga Mthethwa
Thandeka Dladla
Nduduzo Makhathini

Best Gospel Act

Soweto Gospel Choir
Joyous Celebration
Benjamin Dube
Dr Tumi
Ntokozo Mbambo
Lebo Sekgobela
Dumi Mkokstad
Mahalia Buchanan
Khaya Mthethwa
Ncubeko Mbatha
Ayanda Ntenzi
Dube Brothers
Mmatema
Spirit Of Praise

Best Maskandi Act

uGatsheni
Mthandeni SK
Izingane Zoma
Khuthuza
Ntencane
Mjolisi
Menzi Music
Bahubhe
Zwide
Umafikizolo

Best Reggae & Dancehall Act

Nkulee Dube
The Rudimentals
Tidal Waves
Jah Seed
Black Dillinger
Azania Band
Ras Dumisani

Best Producer

Dlala Thukzin
DJ Maphorisa
Kabza De Small
Sun-El Musician
Master KG
Vigro Deep
Kelvin Momo
TitoM and Yuppe
Tyler ICU
Nqubeko Mbatha

Best DJ

Uncle Waffles
Black Coffee
DJ Zinhle
Lamiez Holworthy
Shimza
DJ Tira
DJ Maphorisa
Tyler ICU
Vigro Deep
DJ Euphonik

Best Music Video

Kamo Mphela, Khalil Harrison & Tyler ICU – ‘Dalie’ ft. Baby S.O.N
TXC & Davido – ‘Yebo’ (Official Video) ft. Tony Duardo, LeeMckrazy & DJ Biza
Wanitwa Mos, Master KG, Nkosazana Daughter – ‘Keneilwe’ (ft. Dalom Kids)
K.O – ‘Let Me Cook’ (Official Music Video) ft. Maglera Doe Boy
Tyler ICU – ‘Ebasini Wav.files’ ft. Leemckrazy, Tman Xpress, Ceeka RSA, Visca, AL Xapo, Sjavas DaDeejay
Mr JazziQ x Vigro Deep – ‘Fede’ (Official Music Video)
Vigro Deep, DJ Maphorisa & Kabza De Small (ft. Focalistic, Scotts Maphuma) – ‘A-Z (Yashi Moto)’
Nasty C & @audiomarcdj – ‘For Certain’
Usimamane & Rick Ross – ‘Dangerous II’
Dee Koala – ‘Gwan’ (Official Music Video) ft. Maglera Doe Boy
Priddy Ugly & Maglera Doe Boy ft. MashBeatz – ‘NTJA’KA’
DJ Maphorisa, XDuppy, Sean1401 – ‘Ngibolekeni’ ft. Leemckrazy, Scotts Maphuma, Blxckie, Pcee, Kabelo Sings
Uncle Waffles & Royal Musiq – ‘Wadibusa’ ft. Ohp Sage & Pcee (Official Music Video)
Tyla, Sean Paul – ‘PUSH 2 START (REMIX)’
TitoM & Yuppe – ‘Tshwala Bam’ ft. S.N.E & EeQue

Best Live Performance

Kamo Mphela
Cassper Nyovest
Makhadzi
Sjava
Ami Faku
Justin 99 & Pcee
Uncle Waffles
Priddy Ugly
Maglera Doe Boy
Zee Nxumalo
Busiswa
Toss

Best Radio Station

Metro FM
5FM
Ukhozi FM
YFM
Gagasi FM
Kaya FM
Capricorn FM
Power FM
Good Hope FM
Jozi FM

Best Radio Show

The Midday Link-up (Metro FM)
The Touchdown with Tbo Touch (Metro FM)
The Roger Goode Show (5FM)
The Drive with Mo Flava (Metro FM)
The Best T Drive (Ukhozi FM)
The Big Breakfast Show (R2000)
The Khaya Countdown (Kaya 959)
The Eskhaleni Party (R2000)
The Sound Supreme (Good Hope FM)
The Big Breakfast with DJ Sabby (YFM)
5 Hip Hop Nights (5FM)
The Fresh Breakfast (Metro FM)
Weekend Breakfast with Thando Thabethe (947)

Best Music Television Show

Mzansi House Countdown (Mzansi Magic)
MTV Inside Life (MTV Base)
SA Hits Countdown (MTV Base)
Massive Music (Channel O)
Channel O Top 30 (Channel O)
JR’s Feel-Good Live Sessions (SABC 1)
Gospel Unplugged (SABC 1)
Connect (SABC 1)
LunchTime Vibes (SABC1)
Video Wall (eTV)
Yash’ingoma (Mzansi Magic)

Best Online Music Platform

SlikourOnLife
VooVix TV
Music In Africa
OkayAfrica
Trace Africa
HYPE Magazine
Channel O Online
SA Hip-Hop Mag
Zkhiphani
YFM Online

Best Viral Breakthrough Song

Mr Pilato, Ego Slimflow & Tebogo G Mashego – ‘Biri Marung’ ft. DJ Maphorisa, Focalistic & Scotts Maphuma
Uncle Waffles – ‘Tanzania’
Young Stunna – ‘Adiwele’
TitoM & Yuppe – ‘Tshwala Bam’
Blxckie – ‘David’
Tyla – ‘Water’
Dlala Thukzin – ‘Sohlala Sonke’
Uncle Waffles – ‘Wadibusa’
K.O – ‘SETE’

International Artist of the Year

Davido (Nigeria)
Burna Boy (Nigeria)
Wizkid (Nigeria)
Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
Tems (Nigeria)
Fally Ipupa (DRC)
Sarkodie (Ghana)
Tiwa Savage (Nigeria)
Sauti Sol (Kenya)
Omah Lay (Nigeria)
Tyla (South Africa)
Uncle Waffles (South Africa)

Best International Collaboration (South Africa x Global)

Tyla & Tems – ‘No.1’
Master KG & Nkosazana Daughter – ‘Makhelwane’
Black Coffee & John Legend – ‘10 Missed Calls’
DJ Maphorisa & Drake – ‘Amapiano Nights’
Nasty C & Lil Wayne – ‘Dreams’
Burna Boy Ft. Nicki Minaj, Lil Wayne, Nasty C – ‘4 You’
Makhadzi & Davido – ‘Tshikwama’
Cassper Nyovest & Wizkid – ‘Starboy’
Usimamane Ft. Rick Ross – ‘Dangerous’
TitoM & Yuppe & Burna Boy – ‘Tshwala Bam’ (Remix) [ft. S.N.E]



Urban Music Awards 2025 in SA: All the winners

The sanction followed a positive test for a recreational drug during this year's SA20 tournament.The South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) confirmed that Rabada tested positive following a match between MI Cape Town and Durban's Super Giants on 21 January. The 29-year-old was officially notified of the violation on 1 April while in India for the 2025 IPL season.Rabada, a marquee signing for the Gujarat Titans, played just two matches in the tournament before returning to South Africa for what the franchise described as "personal reasons." The real nature of his absence has now come to light.In line with World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) protocols for substances classified as recreational - such as cannabis and cocaine - Rabada's suspension was reduced due to the non-performance-enhancing nature of the infraction. A similar ruling was made last year in the case of New Zealand bowler Doug Bracewell, who tested positive for cocaine.Rabada has since completed a mandatory education and awareness programme, designed to address the risks and consequences of substance misuse. With the suspension now lifted, he is immediately eligible for selection and could return to action for Gujarat in their upcoming fixture against the Mumbai Indians.The incident, however, has had significant financial implications. Rabada stands to lose approximately R23 million in earnings before tax due to his absence. Cricket South Africa (CSA), which receives 20 percent of player earnings from IPL deals, also faces an estimated shortfall of R4.6 million.In a public statement, CSA described the situation as "regrettable" but confirmed that no further disciplinary action would be pursued. The board also acknowledged Rabada's professionalism and his willingness to engage with the rehabilitation process.Rabada has publicly apologised for his actions, expressing deep remorse and a renewed sense of responsibility."I take full accountability for my mistake and regret the impact it has had on my career, my teammates, and my supporters," he said. "I am committed to learning from this experience and ensuring it never happens again. I do not take for granted the privilege of representing my country and playing the sport I love."Despite the setback, Rabada remains central to South Africa's plans for the upcoming World Test Championship final against Australia next month. His availability will be a significant boost to the Proteas, who view him as a critical figure in their pace attack.With the matter now resolved, attention turns back to the field, where Rabada will seek to restore his form and reputation in both domestic and international cricket.

Rabada Cleared to Return After Reduced Doping Ban

Pop icon and beauty mogul Rihanna has officially confirmed she is expecting her third child and, true to form, she made the announcement in the most glamorous way possible: at the 2025 Met Gala. The singer stunned fans and fashion enthusiasts as she arrived on the red carpet, debuting a visible baby bump beneath her custom couture look. After months and months of speculation from fans, the Met appearance served as a stylish confirmation that the superstar and her partner, rapper A$AP Rocky, are expanding their family once again. Rocky, who co-chaired the iconic fashion event, arrived early in the evening and wore a custom all-black AWGE (his label) look. Rihanna then arrived well after the carpet ended and debuted her baby bump in a grey bustier with a black floor-length skirt and cropped black jacket; all designed by Marc Jacobs.  This will be the third child for the couple, who already share two young sons named RZA and Riot. Rihanna famously revealed her second pregnancy during her headline-making performance at the 2023 Super Bowl Halftime Show, when she took to the stage in a red jumpsuit that subtly showed off her growing belly; a moment that immediately went viral. The couple welcomed their first child in May 2022 and their second in 2023, both boys, though they've kept many details of their private life guarded. Rihanna has spoken openly about embracing motherhood, calling it “legendary” and “life-changing.” Rihanna&rsquo;s pregnancy debut, as expected, sparked a wave of reactions across social media. Even though the speculations had swirled for a while, many social media users were surprised to find out that she was pregnant, yet again. See reactions below: lol Rihanna really gave us her younger years and now she's dedicating these years to herself, her man, and her family.... can't be mad at that 😭 Rihanna pregnant again? Yeah that girl definitely has a breeding kink She wants that daughter so bad lol. When we said R9 we meant album not 9 kids💔 This nigga don’t let her breathe 😭

Rihanna confirms baby number 3 speculations at Met Gala

The 2025 Met Gala lit up New York City on Monday night, bringing together fashion, culture, and star power for what has long been dubbed the industry’s most glamorous evening — and this year, it truly delivered.&nbsp;A-list icons including Rihanna, Zendaya, Lewis Hamilton, Sabrina Carpenter , Colman Domingo, and Megan Thee Stallion turned heads as they graced the blue carpet at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Each look paid homage to this year’s powerful theme, “Tailored for You,” a celebration of Black dandyism and the rich legacy of fashion in shaping Black identity and expression.&nbsp;Staged on the elegant steps of Manhattan’s Upper East Side landmark, the Met Gala is more than a party — its fashion history in the making. Every first Monday in May, a tightly curated guest list, overseen by Vogue’s editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, ascends the Met steps in show-stopping, custom-designed ensembles. From music legends and Hollywood stars to athletes, designers, and changemakers, the night is a full-blown spectacle — a visual feast of creativity, craftsmanship, and unapologetic glamour that will spark conversation for seasons to come.

Met Gala 2025: Stars Shine on Fashion’s Biggest Night

The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has revealed the winners for the 2025 edition of Metro FM Music Awards held at Mbombela Stadium in Mpumalanga on 3 May.

Leading the winners’ circle was Limpopo-born sensation Makhadzi, who bagged the coveted Artist of the Year title, reaffirming her dominance in the industry. Gospel powerhouse Xolly Mncwango earned two top accolades: Best Female Artist and Best Gospel Album for Unusual, underlining her growing impact in both spiritual and mainstream musical circles.
In a night that blended tradition with innovation, Mawelele & Kwesta won Best R&B Song with their heartfelt collaboration ‘All My Life’, while WOODBLOCK DJS claimed Song of the Year for the electrifying remix ‘Skuta Baba’ featuring Cassper Nyovest, Kwesta, and Kane Keid.
Bassie, M-Touch, Ranger, and Amaza also emerged major victors, taking home Best Amapiano Song, Best Collaboration, and Best Music Video for the hit ‘Kwelanga 2.0’ featuring TmanXpress and LeemcKrazy.
Emtee earned recognition for Best Produced Album with DIY 3, while genre-bending acts like Chronical Deep and Kabza De Small won Best Dance Song with ‘Hayi Baba’. In jazz, Linda Sikhakhane’s iLadi took home Best Jazz Album, reinforcing his reputation as one of South Africa’s most innovative jazz composers.
Other notable wins included Skhandaworld, K.O and Nasty C for Best Hip Hop Song ‘Too Much’, Usimamane as Best Male Artist, and Mörda as Best Styled Artist.
The Best New Artist award went to Neo Dube, signalling the rise of fresh talent in a competitive music landscape.
Below is the full list of winners:
Best Female Artist

Xolly Mncwango
Dbn Gogo
Babalwa M
Nontokozo Mkhize
Makhadzi

Best R&B Song

Mawelele & Kwesta – ‘All My Life’
Shekhinah ft. Moliy – ‘Risk’
Elaine – ‘Love Me Slowly’
Langa Mavuso – ‘Best Friend (Control)’
Nanette, Tellaman & Nasty C – ‘Tonight’

Best Dance Song

Chronical Deep, Leehleza, Kabza De Small ft. Latique, Ezra – ‘Hayi Baba’
Casswell P & Nobuhle – ‘Can’t Get
Dlala Thukzin feat. Zeh McGeba, MK Productions – ‘Sohlala Sisonke’
Oscar Mbo and Jazzworx feat. Thukuthela – ‘Vuka’
CAIIRO ft Ami Faku – ‘Ndisize’

Song of the Year

WOODBLOCK DJS ft. Cassper Nyovest, Kwesta, Kane Keid – ‘Skuta Baba (Remix)’
Blaq Major ft. Bless The Gentleman & DJ Kap – ‘Sdakiwe Sbali’
Makhadzi, Prince Benza, Iyanya – ‘Number 1’
Felo Le Tee, Scotts Maphuma & ThabzaTee ft. DJ Maphorisa & Djy Biza – ‘Yebo Lapho (Gogo)’
CAIIRO ft. Ami Faku – ‘Ndisize’
Mr Pilato, Ego Slimflow, Tebogo G Mashego ft. Sje Konka, Focalistic, DJ Maphorisa, Scotts Maphuma, CowBoii – ‘Biri Marung’
Shakes & Les ft. LeeMcKrazy – ‘Funk 99’
Kabza De Small & Vigro Deep ft. Scotts Maphuma & Young Stunna – ‘Wishi Wishi’
KMAT ft. CowBoii, djygubzin.live & Ranger – ‘MKK’

Best Artist of the Year

Makhadzi
Tyler ICU
Kabza De Small
Morda
Kelvin Momo

Best Amapiano Song

Bassie, M-Touch, Ranger, Amaza ft. TmanXpress, LeemcKrazy – ‘Kwelanga 2.0’
DJ Stokie, Zee_nhle, Sobzeen, Faith Strings – ‘Selimathunzi’
Felo Le Tee, Scotts Maphuma & ThabzaTee feat. DJ Maphorisa & Djy Biza – ‘Yebo Lapho (Gogo)’
Mr Pilato, Ego Slimow, Tebogo G Mashego ft. Sje Konka x Focalistic x DJ Maphorisa x Scotts Maphuma x CowBoii – ‘Biri Marung’
Blaq Major, Bless the General, Dj Kap – ‘Sdakiwe Sbali’

Best Hip Hop Song

Skhandaworld, K.O & Nasty C – ‘Too Much’
K.O ft. Maglera Doe Boy – ‘Let Me Cook’
Usimamane & Sjava – ‘Uvalo’
Emtee – ‘WAR’
Tony Dayimane, Usimamane, Kwesta & Yanga Chief – ‘Wishlist’

Best Duo/Group

Blaq Diamond
Wanitwa Mos and Nkosazana Daughter
Shakes and Les
Black Motion

Best African Pop Song

Naledi Aphiwe & Mawelele – ‘Romeo & Juliet’
Nomfundo Moh ft. Msaki, Cassper Nyovest – ‘Umusa’
Blaq Diamond – ‘Piki Piki’
Mlindo The Vocalist & DJ Maphorisa ft. Tman xpress; Phila Dlozi – ‘Umdali’

Best Gospel Album

Xolly Mncwango – Unusual
Nontokozo Mkhize – Lindiwe
SbuNoah – Heavenly Psalms Level 2
Ayanda Ntanzi – According to Grace, A One Man Show
Mmuso Worship – Jesus to the city V2

Best Male Artist

Usimamane
Dlala Thukzin
Kabza de Small
Kelvin Momo
Tyler ICU

Best Styled Artist

Mörda
MaWhoo
Focalistic
Dbn Gogo
Oscar Mbo

Best Kwaito/Gqom Song

Mr Thela, Beast RSA, Mthandazo Gatya & Zanda Zakuza – ‘Ekhaya’
Funky Qla, Argento Dust & Maline Aura – ‘Utshwala’
Goldmax, Dlala Thukzin & Funky Qla ft Zee Nxumalo & Beast RSA – ‘FOMO’
DJ Tira Feat. AmaTycooler, Big Nuz & Focus Magazi – ‘Singenzenjani’
Goldmax & Blacks Jnr feat. Leemckraza – ‘Ama Weekend’

Best Jazz Album

Linda Sikhakhane – iLadi
Nduduzo Makhathini – uNomkhubulwane
Thandiswa Mazwai – Sankofa
Nomfundo Xaluva – Ndilapha
Sydney Mavundla – Dirge for our Fathers

Best Viral Challenge

WOODBLOCK DJS – Mvelost; Set Off; Somololo – ‘Skuta Baba’
Mr Pilato, Ego Slimow, Tebogo G Mashego ft. Sje Konka x Focalistic x DJ Maphorisa x Scotts Maphuma x CowBoii – ‘Biri Marung’
Kabza De Small & Vigro Deep feat. Scotts Maphuma & Young Stunna – ‘Wishi Wishi’
Felo Le Tee, Scotts Maphuma & ThabzaTee feat. DJ Maphorisa & Djy Biza – ‘Yebo Lapho (Gogo)’
KMAT feat. CowBoii, djygubzin.live & Ranger – ‘MKK’

Best Produced Album

Emtee – DIY 3
Nontokozo Mkhize – Lindiwe
Dlala Thukzin – Finally Famous Too
Kelvin Momo – Ntsako
Thandiswa Mazwai – Sankofa

Best New Artist

Neo Dube
Mawelele
Phila Koshin

Best Collaboration Song

Bassie, M-Touch, Ranger, Amaza ft. TmanXpress, LeemcKrazy – ‘Kwelanga 2.0’
Felo Le Tee, Scotts Maphuma, Thabza Tee ft. DJ Maphorisa, Djy Biza – ‘Yebo Lapho (Gogo)’
Mr Pilato, Ego Slimow, Tebogo G Mashego ft. Sje Konka x Focalistic x DJ Maphorisa x Scotts Maphuma x CowBoii – ‘Biri Marung’
Woodblock DJs ft. Cassper Nyovest, Kwesta & Kane Keid – ‘Skuta Baba (Remix)’
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Starting or scaling a business in Africa is not for the weak. It takes great strength to overcome the various roadblocks, especially when funding is hard to come by. You may have the greatest idea and the strongest will, but your vision will quickly fall apart without the capital to start.&nbsp;



A lot of entrepreneurs in Africa do not fail because they are lazy or unambitious. Most times, it is things like funding that are out of the control of the entrepreneur that bring a business down. Trying to fund a business in Africa is hard, but nothing is impossible. If you know where to look, whom to ask, and how to prepare, then securing funding in Africa will not be hard.&nbsp;



In this article, I will explore 10 business funding opportunities in Africa.&nbsp;&nbsp;



1. Personal savings and family support



Let&#8217;s start with the most common and often most overlooked source of business funding in Africa: the money saved by your efforts, or in many cases by your family.



Many entrepreneurs in Africa actually end up sourcing their start-up funds from their own pocket. Some save for months or years, while others may rely on modest contributions from parents, siblings, or dear friends.Related Articles10 Ways to grow your eCommerce businessTop 10 African countries with the best education system (2025)10 Things that can kill your dreams in Africa10 Richest cities in Africa (2025)How to use behavioral economics to increase sales



This form of fundraising may not be flashy, but it teaches you discipline. It may not be enough to scale up your dream into a multimillion-dollar company, but it can set you off. And often, starting small may be all that you need.



2. Angel investors



Angel investors are individuals who find promising startups and invest in them. Once they see potential in a business idea, they invest their own money to help the business grow. 



Angel investors may not be very common in Africa, but you can find them if you know where to look. Increasingly, cities like Lagos, Nairobi, Cape Town, and Cairo have networks of people who are willing to put money into startups. However, they want to see passion, a solid plan, and an eagerness to learn.



For those in search of a little mentorship to go with the money, this might be the best option.



3. Venture capital (VC)



Venture capitalists are firms that invest in startups with the hope of getting big returns later. These firms only put their money into ideas that have the potential for greatness. 



Accessing VCs in Africa is not easy. It&#8217;s competitive, and they often expect you to already have some traction; users, sales, or media attention. But if you have already started and are growing very fast, VC might be the fuel you need to explode.



4. Bank loans



This is possibly one of the easiest methods of obtaining funding for businesses. You don’t have to save for a long period or rely on the mercy of an angel investor or VC. You can just go to the bank and get a loan. However, most African banks are not startup-friendly, and you have to pay interest on the loan you collect. It might seem easy, but it&#8217;s also the riskiest.&nbsp;



African banks prefer lending to established companies with plenty of collateral. Small businesses and young adults with no land or big contracts will typically have to go through a rigorous process before they are given a loan. 



5. Microfinance Institutions (MFIs)



If getting a bank loan is not working out well for you, you can try a microfinance institution. MFIs were formed to support the small-scale entrepreneurs, market women, artisans, small farmers, and so on. These loans could be small, but for many people, this is the first and most important step.



You do not always need collaterals, but mostly you will require guarantors and be a member of a group. The downside is that repayment periods are short and interests are high, so do not borrow money you cannot pay back.&nbsp;



It may not make you a millionaire overnight. But it can keep your hustling efforts alive while you build.



6. Business competitions and startup grants



If you believe your business idea has great potential, you can compete against other entrepreneurs and win funding for your business. You are given the chance to pitch your idea, define your model, and, in case the judges believe in you, you get funding and/or mentorship. 



Competitions and grants like this are becoming more and more popular in Africa. The most notable include:&nbsp;




Tony Elumelu Foundation



Anzisha Prize



Orange Social Venture Prize



Seedstars Africa




Just like any competition, the process is hard, and you are not guaranteed a win. You would need to write compelling proposals and sometimes pitch before a judging panel. However, if your conviction is strong and you&#8217;re willing to work hard, this could be a way to get funding without giving equity or taking loans.



7. Crowdfunding 



Crowdfunding platforms let you tell your story and encourage people to support your project, either with donations, by pre-ordering, or by taking equity stakes in your organization. It&#8217;s just like getting dozens of small investors rather than a single big one.



In Africa, Thundafund (South Africa) and StartSomeGood have helped many locals raise money for their companies. You may also consider launching your funding campaign using global platforms such as GoFundMe, Kickstarter, or Indiegogo, as long as your story connects.



It works best if your business has that social angle or a product that excites people.



8. Cooperative societies and rotating savings groups



Depending on which portion of Africa you are from, you might have heard these terms: &#8220;Esusu,&#8221; &#8220;Chamas,&#8221; &#8220;Tontines,&#8221; or &#8220;Stokvels.&#8221; They are age-old savings systems in which members make monthly contributions and take turns receiving the lump amount.



They are mainly put to use for weddings, school fees, or building houses. However, entrepreneurs can use them as seed capital for their businesses.&nbsp;



The beauty of this scheme is trust and community. You don’t need to convince strangers- you are working with people you know. Perhaps not in terms of millions, but it works for small-scale businesses.



9. Supplier and customer credit



Sometimes, the third party that funds you may not be a banking institution. It could come from your business partners.



Imagine you run a small restaurant. Instead of paying cash upfront for raw food supplies, you negotiate with your supplier to pay after 30 days. Or you’re a tailor, and your clients pay a deposit that covers the material cost before you even start sewing.



This is called trade credit-and is a genuine strategy used by smart entrepreneurs.



It works on trust and experience, so relationships are essential. The more reliable you are, the more flexible your partners will be. And the best thing is that you get to grow without any loans!&nbsp;



10. Government programs and public schemes



It is very easy to write off government programs as unreliable, but some have helped to build real businesses. There are programs created by many African governments to support small businesses, especially youth and women. These include:




BOI (Bank of Industry) in Nigeria



Uwezo Fund in Kenya



GEA Support in Ghana



SEFA in South Africa




They may offer loans without interest, grants, training, and tools. Awareness and corruption are the major challenges. However, if you keep your ears to the ground, you might just benefit. Just do not expect smooth sailing. It will take patience, paperwork, and persistence.&nbsp;



Conclusion



Don’t let your dreams die due to a lack of funding. There are several ways to fund your startup in Africa. As long as you have the will and drive, you will find a way to fund your business. The above 10 funding opportunities are a great starting place if you feel stuck.&nbsp;




ShareRead the full article of Top 10 business funding options in Africa on MakeMoney.ng.

Top 10 business funding options in Africa

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Evelyn was excited and all smiles about her dress: &quot;I told you, you would not recognise me!&quot;The service, which went on until 22:00, ended with a blessing from Mr Modise for the new couples and their other spouses - with the festivities going on long into the night.While such pageantry is often associated with weddings here - albeit not on such a grand scale – multiple marriage ceremonies are unusual, even in a country as diverse and multicultural as South Africa.So too is the inclusion of polygamous unions. While polygyny - the marriage of a man to several women - is allowed in South Africa, such relationships are usually registered as customary marriages and are not celebrated in church.However, the IPHC is one of what is known as an African independent church, which is allowed to officiate them - as long as the marriages are also registered with the country's home affairs department.According to the 2022 census, more than 85% of South Africans identified as Christian, followed by 8%, who said they practised traditional African beliefs.Several churches with large congregations mix both belief systems - like the IPHC - though mainstream Protestant and Catholic churches remain the biggest denominations.For the IPHC, polygamy has been taught and encouraged and has &quot;evolved with the church&quot; from its inception in Soweto in 1962 to a congregation today of 3.1 million across southern Africa, senior church official Mpho Makwana told the BBC.Mr Molala married his first wife in 1991, six years after joining the church. She was also a member - an important factor for those looking to take a spouse. The church explicitly forbids marriages to outsiders.Nine years later, Mr Molala and his wife sat down to discuss the expansion of the family. After a church-wide search, the couple settled on Shirley who was then 23.&quot;I felt important [because I was] noticed among the many women in the church,&quot; she said.Evelyn too was selected after a church-initiated process that began in February. She admitted it took a while for her to warm to the idea of joining a polygamous union, though Shirley's receptive attitude made it easier for her.The 44-year-old had grown up in the church but later left, going on to have three children, before returning to the fold a few years ago.With his marriage to Evelyn, Mr Molala has informally adopted her children, bringing the total number of his offspring to 13.Each of his families live in separate houses - although Evelyn will join him at his home for the early stages of the marriage.Polygamy, traditionally practised in some South African cultures, does divide people in the country. In recent years several reality shows have given an insight into life in plural families - and sparked debate about whether they are still relevant.Prof Musa Xulu, a religious expert with South Africa's Cultural, Religious and Linguistics Rights Communities Rights Commission, said it was common to come across families in such unions who had been devastated in the initial stages of the HIV/Aids pandemic, which has ravaged South Africa.The situation had stabilised, though it was still &quot;a big problem&quot;, he told the BBC.Mr Makwana said the IPHC had addressed this head on - putting in place measures about a decade ago to better protect couples and polygamous unions from HIV/Aids after one family's experience, which had been an &quot;eye-opener&quot; for the church's leadership.Those intending to get married must first get tested for HIV.&quot;You can't proceed without going through that process… so there are no surprises ahead,&quot; he said.The couple must tell each other their results, decide whether to continue and then the church keeps a record on file.This &quot;100% transparency&quot; also reduced the number of divorces that had often resulted when deception came to light, he said.Prof Xulu said churches like the IPHC, while having an &quot;eclectic approach to Christianity&quot; that was &quot;half-Christian, half-African&quot;, did have doctrinal justifications for their traditions as well as &quot;internal dispute-resolution mechanisms&quot;.&quot;They will assist families who are undergoing distress,&quot; he said.The IPHC is heavily involved in the vetting process once a proposal has been accepted. It takes several months and is marked by three pre-nuptial ceremonies.During this time, couples were &quot;taken through a spiritual process of ensuring they know what they are committing to&quot;, Mr Makwana said.Most couples are relative strangers before the formal proposal is made - as was the case for Freddy Letsoalo, 35, and 31-year-old Rendani Maemu.They also tied the knot in Zuurbekom over Easter - both marrying for the first time.Mr Letsoalo said he first spotted his bride-to-be at a friend's wedding nearly a decade ago - also celebrated at one of the mass marriage ceremonies.But they &quot;didn't talk or do anything else&quot; after their initial meeting, he told the BBC.&quot;It was love at first sight but remember, we know… the teachings of our church.&quot;While the two would later become Facebook friends, their interactions were restricted to birthday wishes - that was until December 2024 when Mr Letsoalo set the wheels in motion, alerting first his family and then the church's leadership of his intentions.&quot;I wasn't aware that he was interested in me. When I became aware… I was excited. I've always dreamt of my wedding day,&quot; a blushing Ms Maemu, who was raised in the church, told me before the nuptials.Her dream came true and she did look resplendent before going down the aisle along with nine bridesmaids in a crystal-encrusted gown, tiara and a bridal train several metres long.While the couple are currently focused on their new life together, both are willing to embrace polygamy should the right opportunity present itself in the future.&quot;I know there's a chance that my husband will want to enter into a polygamous marriage,&quot; said the new Mrs Letsoalo.&quot;I believe in polygamy.&quot;A view that may be controversial for many South Africans.You may also be interested in:
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Polygamy and pageantry on display at a mass wedding in South Africa

You’ve heard of Taco Tuesday, Pizza Friday and even Wine Wednesdays, but have you ever celebrated World Tuna Day? If not, today’s the day to give a little extra love to this swimming superstar of the ocean, and your lunchbox.&nbsp;Tuna is more than just a fish, it’s a meal prep MVP, a pantry essential and the unsung hero of sandwiches, sushi and salads everywhere.&nbsp;&nbsp;So, let’s take a moment to dive deep (pun intended) into the wonder of tuna and all the reasons it deserves its own special day.&nbsp;&nbsp;Why Tuna Deserves A DayNutritional Powerhouse: Tuna is packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins. Basically, it's like nature’s multivitamin in a can.Super Versatile: From tuna tartare to a classic tuna melt, this fish can rock any culinary outfit.Quick &amp; Convenient: Need a meal that’s fast, affordable and doesn’t require a PhD in cooking? Tuna’s got your back.The Ultimate Snack Companion: Who can forget the iconic tuna salad on crackers? It’s the snack that never disappoints.&nbsp;Fun Ways To Celebrate World Tuna DayTuna Party: Host a mini celebration with a tuna recipe cook-off. Whether it’s a creative sushi roll, a spicy tuna pasta or an old-school tuna salad, the possibilities are endless.Tuna Taste Test: Compare the flavours of fresh, canned and smoked tuna. Which one’s the real ocean royalty?Dare to Go Beyond the Sandwich: Tuna doesn’t just belong between two slices of bread. Get experimental.&nbsp;Tuna Fun FactDid you know? Tuna can swim up to 75 km/h (47 mph), making them one of the fastest fish in the sea.&nbsp;&nbsp;Quick Recipe To CelebrateTuna Salad with a Twist: Mix canned tuna with diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, a squeeze of lime and a handful of chopped cilantro. Serve over greens or as a wrap. Simple, fresh and perfectly tasty!&nbsp;On World Tuna Day, it’s time to say thanks to this ocean hero. The next time you open a can, toss some tuna into your salad or enjoy a tuna sushi roll, just know you’re part of a worldwide celebration of flavour, nutrition and sheer tuna greatness!

Catch Of The Day: Why Tuna Is The Real Star

A total of 62% of South African traders view promises of unrealistic gains as a major red flag. Amid social media hype and high-risk promises, local traders are pushing back against platforms that exaggerate potential returns. They are calling for honesty – and walking away from brokers that fail to deliver it.&nbsp;This finding comes from a recent global survey by international financial broker Octa, which polled more than 2,000 traders across SA, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Nigeria. The study offers a snapshot of the global trader mindset, with the results for SA pointing to deepening expectations for fairness, transparency, and accountability.&nbsp;As the SA’s trading sector continues to grow, so does the awareness of what makes a broker trustworthy – or not. Hidden fees, withdrawal delays, and chart manipulation rank high among the warning signs that local traders say they are watching for.&nbsp;Withdrawal issues are also a major concern, with 27% of SA traders reporting difficulty accessing their funds. This is the highest among the four countries surveyed and highlights the critical role of seamless transaction processes in maintaining trust.&nbsp;Chart manipulation is another clear red flag. More than half of SA traders (56%) say manipulated or inconsistent price charts signal unreliability. This indicates a demand for more transparent pricing practices and access to historical data to verify broker integrity.&nbsp;Interestingly, only 29% of local traders say high broker fees are a deal-breaker, a figure lower than in other countries like Indonesia. This suggests SA traders may be more tolerant of fees provided they get value, security, and service in return.&nbsp;“SA traders are becoming more informed and selective,” says Octa analyst MJ Givens Kgasi. “They are not just looking for low fees, they are looking for transparency, fast withdrawals, and honest communication. Once trust is broken, it is very hard to regain.”&nbsp;The survey results reveal a trading audience that is maturing quickly. Gone are the days of jumping into platforms based solely on marketing promises. Today’s traders want accountability and education. They want tools to help them assess broker credibility and data to back up performance claims.“Chart manipulation and delayed withdrawals do not just hurt a trader’s wallet – they hurt confidence. And that confidence is essential for consistent performance and long-term trading success.”With SA’s crypto and forex trading space continuing to grow, these insights serve as a reminder for brokers to prioritise transparency, security, and integrity.&nbsp;

Online trading platforms make poor promises

If you’ve ever stared at your closet packed with clothes and thought, "I have nothing to wear," you’re not alone.&nbsp;&nbsp;The secret isn’t owning more clothes; it’s building a smart wardrobe that works overtime for every occasion.&nbsp;Here’s how to create a closet that’s not just stylish, but also seriously slaying:&nbsp;1. Start With Strong BasicsA crisp white shirt, the perfect jeans, a little black dress, a tailored blazer—these are your most essential pieces. They can be dressed up, dressed down, layered and mixed endlessly.&nbsp;Tip: Choose basics in neutral tones for maximum versatility.&nbsp;2. Invest In Quality Over QuantityFast fashion is tempting, but having a few well-made staples will give you more outfit options.&nbsp;Pro move: Spend a little more on timeless pieces you’ll wear year after year; they'll save you money in the long run.&nbsp;3. Play The Mix-And-Match GameIf your clothes only work one way, they’re not earning their keep. Every new item should match at least three things you already own.&nbsp;&nbsp;That printed skirt? Pair it with a basic tee, a structured blazer and a denim jacket – that’s looks, one skirt.&nbsp;4. Layer Like A ProLayers are the secret sauce to stretching your wardrobe. A lightweight turtleneck under a slip dress? A denim jacket over a floral maxi? Layers give you looks without more clothes.&nbsp;5. Add Personality With AccessoriesAccessories are your wardrobe’s best multitaskers. Scarves, hats, belts, chunky jewellery -they can transform even the simplest outfit and keep things feeling fresh.&nbsp;Hint: Even switching up your shoes can completely change an outfit’s vibe.&nbsp;6. Keep It Seasonal… But SmartInstead of buying entirely new clothes every season, update with just a few trendy pieces. A fun new bag, statement earrings or a bright jacket can make your closet feel brand new without draining your wallet.

How To Build A Closet That Works Overtime

Carrots are the unsung heroes of the vegetable world.&nbsp;Whether you love them raw, roasted, juiced or sneakily hidden in a cake, today we're giving this vibrant orange root the appreciation it deserves.&nbsp;A Little Crunchy HistoryCarrots have been around for centuries, with their roots (pun intended) tracing back to Persia.Originally, they weren’t always orange; early varieties were purple, yellow and white.&nbsp;It wasn’t until Dutch farmers in the 17th century decided to pay tribute to their royal family, the House of Orange, that we got the classic orange carrot we know today.&nbsp;Why Should You Care About Carrots?Super Sight Power - Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which converts into Vitamin A, helping keep your eyes in top shape.Skin Glow-Up - Antioxidants in carrots work wonders for your skin, giving you that natural glow-up without a filter.Snack-Friendly Goodness - Low in calories but high in nutrients, carrots make the perfect guilt-free snack.&nbsp;Fun Carrot Facts To Impress Your FriendsThe longest carrot ever grown measured a whopping 20 feet long!Bugs Bunny may have made carrots famous, but rabbits actually shouldn’t eat too many - too much sugar!The first recorded use of carrots as a natural dye dates back centuries. Yes, you could technically colour your clothes with carrots.&nbsp;Whether you’re crunching on a fresh carrot, whipping up a decadent carrot dessert or simply basking in the glow of all things orange, make sure to eat this veggie with enthusiasm.&nbsp;

Crunching And Munching On Carrots

Across South Africa,&nbsp;Artificial Intelligence&nbsp;(AI) is redefining industries, inspiring innovation, improving operations, and driving growth. The government and businesses are capitalising on&nbsp;AI's potential to enhance customer experiences and gain a competitive advantage.&nbsp;Forecasts indicate that&nbsp;AI&nbsp;could contribute trillions to the global economy by 2030, while&nbsp;in South Africa&nbsp;the&nbsp;AI&nbsp;market is projected to reach $1.04-billion in 2025 alone, and a market volume of $4.19-billion by 2031. However, as businesses and governments adopt&nbsp;AI&nbsp;at an accelerating pace, new security challenges arise, demanding vigilant attention to protect these&nbsp;investments.&nbsp;The success of&nbsp;AI&nbsp;in South Africa depends on addressing three critical security imperatives. Businesses need to manage&nbsp;risks&nbsp;associated with&nbsp;AI&nbsp;usage, proactively defend against&nbsp;AI-enhanced attacks, and employ&nbsp;AI&nbsp;to enhance their overall security posture.&nbsp;Managing the&nbsp;risks&nbsp;of&nbsp;AI&nbsp;usageAI’s reliance on vast amounts of data presents unique challenges, particularly for SA with our stringent Protection of Personal Data Information Act (POPIA).&nbsp;AI&nbsp;models are built, trained, and finetuned with this data, making its protection paramount.&nbsp;Further afield, the EU has been steadily strengthening its cybersecurity posture through regulations like&nbsp;the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA),&nbsp;NIS2 Directive, the&nbsp;Cyber Resilience Act&nbsp;and the recently launched&nbsp;EU&nbsp;AI&nbsp;Act&nbsp;– all of which introduce stringent cybersecurity requirements that businesses leveraging&nbsp;AI&nbsp;must meet to ensure resilience and compliance. Missteps in handling data could lead to compliance failures, breaches, or reputational damage.&nbsp;Beyond data protection, the&nbsp;AI&nbsp;lifecycle comes with broader&nbsp;risks&nbsp;related to system availability, data integrity, compliance, and governance. The reassuring news is that tried-and-tested cybersecurity principles, such as least privilege access, robust authentication controls, monitoring, and input/output filtering, still serve as valuable tools for securing&nbsp;AI&nbsp;systems. Implementing these measures effectively, however, requires upskilling security teams to understand and manage the specific nuances of&nbsp;AI&nbsp;technologies.&nbsp;To better address&nbsp;AI&nbsp;risks, organisations should also integrate&nbsp;risk&nbsp;considerations across ethical, safety, and cultural domains. A multidisciplinary approach can help ensure&nbsp;AI&nbsp;is deployed responsibly. Establishing comprehensive&nbsp;AI&nbsp;governance frameworks is an essential first step. These frameworks should include perspectives from experts across the organisation to balance security, compliance, and innovation within a single, cohesive&nbsp;risk&nbsp;management strategy.&nbsp;Countering&nbsp;AI-powered threatsWhile&nbsp;AI&nbsp;has enormous potential, bad actors are employing this technology to enhance the speed, scale, and sophistication of attacks. Social engineering schemes, advanced fraud tactics, and&nbsp;AI-generated phishing emails are becoming more difficult to detect, with some leading to significant financial losses.&nbsp;Deepfakes, for instance, are finding their way into targeted scams aimed at compromising organisations. A 2024 ENISA report highlights that&nbsp;AI-enhanced phishing attacks have surged by 35% in the past year, underscoring the need for stronger cybersecurity measures. According to&nbsp;Dell Technologies Innovation Catalyst Research, 59% of South African respondents believe GenAI will introduce new security and privacy challenges.&nbsp;Although many&nbsp;AI-enabled threats build on established attack methods, they require businesses to evolve their defences. Implementing&nbsp;AI-powered security tools and educating employees on recognising these advanced tactics are essential steps to counteract evolving threats.&nbsp;Organisations must prepare for an era where cyberattacks operate at machines’ speed. Transitioning to a defensive approach anchored in automation is key to responding swiftly and effectively, minimising the impact of advanced attacks. A future of duelling&nbsp;AI&nbsp;agents in the cybersecurity domain may not be far off.&nbsp;Leveraging&nbsp;AI&nbsp;to strengthen securityAI’s capabilities offer organisations powerful tools to fortify their defences. With its ability to detect vulnerabilities, predict&nbsp;risk, and accelerate response times,&nbsp;AI&nbsp;is emerging as a critical asset in the fight against cyber threats.&nbsp;Organisations are increasingly integrating&nbsp;AI&nbsp;into cybersecurity strategies, viewing it as a critical enabler of more proactive, dynamic defences. In fact, Dell Technologies’ 2024 Innovation Index reports that 72% of organisations view&nbsp;AI&nbsp;as essential to their cybersecurity strategies, with 65% already implementing&nbsp;AI-driven security solutions.&nbsp;Here’s how organisations can leverage&nbsp;AI&nbsp;to enhance security:&nbsp;Secure software development:&nbsp;AI&nbsp;can improve coding processes by detecting weaknesses early, helping teams reduce vulnerabilities in the development phase.Advanced threat prediction:&nbsp;AI’s algorithms can identify patterns and anticipate potential attack paths, aiding teams in proactive&nbsp;risk&nbsp;allocation.Enhanced threat detection:&nbsp;By processing vast datasets in real time,&nbsp;AI&nbsp;can discern genuine threats from noise with unprecedented accuracy.Automated incident responses:&nbsp;AI&nbsp;tools can significantly accelerate containment and mitigation following an intrusion, reducing response timelines.User awareness programmes:&nbsp;AI-powered systems can deliver tailored security training to employees, fostering vigilance and reducing human errors that often lead to breaches.&nbsp;For many businesses, the adoption of these advanced&nbsp;AI-driven tools will rely on partnerships with technology providers. It’s critical to ensure internal processes and data are structured and simplified to fully support the power of&nbsp;AI-enabled cybersecurity solutions. An automation-first approach ensures that businesses can adapt to a future where autonomous threats are the norm.&nbsp;Building a resilient futureAI&nbsp;has moved beyond emerging technology status and now plays a central role in digital transformation in SA. Yet, its benefits can only be realised if businesses address its accompanying&nbsp;risks&nbsp;with diligence and foresight. Securing&nbsp;AI&nbsp;capabilities means embedding cybersecurity principles at every stage of development, testing, and implementation.&nbsp;Companies that approach&nbsp;AI&nbsp;security with robust protections and innovative strategies will not only mitigate&nbsp;risks&nbsp;but position themselves as industry leaders. By addressing the three imperatives of managing&nbsp;risks, countering threats, and leveraging&nbsp;AI&nbsp;for security, businesses can unlock&nbsp;AI’s full potential while navigating the regulatory and threat landscape effectively.&nbsp;Secured properly, the innovation&nbsp;AI&nbsp;enables will drive sustainable growth for businesses across SA, setting them up to thrive in an increasingly digital and data-centric world. The future belongs to those who innovate securely, balancing progress with responsibility.&nbsp;

AI investment raises risk

Keeping your makeup from melting off your face is sometimes a battle.&nbsp;However, with the right tricks up your sleeve, you can look flawless for hours. Below are ways to keep your makeup game strong throughout the day:&nbsp;1. Start With A Clean SlateBefore you even think about foundation, make sure your face is as clean and oil-free as possible. A gentle cleanser followed by a light moisturiser will set the perfect canvas.&nbsp;2. Focus On The PrimerA good primer is your best friend. It acts as a barrier between your skin and the makeup, helping to absorb excess oil and keeping your face looking matte and smooth.&nbsp;3. Go LightThick, heavy foundations are a no-go, especially if you have oily skin. Instead, switch to lighter options like BB creams or tinted moisturisers. They provide coverage without the weight, allowing your skin to breathe and minimising the risk of a makeup meltdown.&nbsp;4. Set It And Forget ItA crucial step in your heat-proof makeup routine is setting your base with a good quality translucent powder. This helps to absorb any excess oil and keeps your makeup in place.&nbsp;6. Setting SprayFor added staying power, finish off with a setting spray that will lock everything in and add a refreshing mist to your routine.&nbsp;7. Embrace WaterproofWhen it comes to your eyes, waterproof is the way to go. Swap your regular mascara and eyeliner for waterproof versions to prevent smudging and running.&nbsp;&nbsp;8. Touch-Up SmartlyCarry blotting papers to dab away any shine without smudging your makeup. If you need to touch up, use a powder-based product rather than layering more liquid or cream-based makeup, which can end up looking cakey.

Sweat-Proof Your Makeup: Tips To Keep It Flawless All Day

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