metrosmag

Blog

  • South Sudan Launches R21 Malaria Vaccine Rollout to Protect Children

    South Sudan Launches R21 Malaria Vaccine Rollout to Protect Children

    Juba, South Sudan – In a historic move to combat the devastating impact of malaria, the Ministry of Health, in partnership with UNICEF and the World Health Organization and Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance, today launched the nationwide rollout of the R21 malaria vaccine. This landmark event marks a significant stride in the country’s efforts to safeguard the health and well-being of its children.

    The launch follows the arrival of the first consignment of over 645,000 doses of the R21 malaria vaccine in Juba on 31 May 2024. These vaccines will initially be distributed to the 28 counties with the highest malaria burden, with plans to scale up the rollout nationwide.

    Malaria continues to be a leading cause of illness and death in South Sudan, particularly among young children. In 2022, the country reported an estimated 2.8 million cases and 6,680 deaths. With  approximately 7,630 new cases and 18 fatalities daily, South Sudan has one of the highest malaria incidence rates in the region.

    “Malaria is a major concern for our country. We are committed to reducing the impact of malaria and improving the health outcomes for our children,” said Honourable Yolanda Awel Deng, Minister of Health. “The continued use of this vaccine, alongside other preventive measures such as insecticide-treated bed nets and timely access to medical care, will be instrumental in our efforts to eliminate malaria in South Sudan.”

    “The nationwide rollout of the malaria vaccine marks a significant milestone in South Sudan’s journey to reduce the devastating burden of malaria and saving countless young lives. The development exemplifies how investments in health systems can yield significant benefits, ensuring that vaccines and other interventions reach those most in need. Together, we can build a stronger foundation for the health and well-being of future generations in South Sudan. We commend the Ministry of Health for their unwavering commitment to this cause,” said Patience Musanhu, Gavi Senior Country Manager for South Sudan.

    WHO recommends the RTS,S/AS01, and R21/Matrix-M vaccines to prevent malaria in children. The rollout of the RTS,S, and R21 malaria vaccines will ensure an adequate supply to meet demand, significantly benefiting children living in areas where malaria poses a major public health risk.

    “The expanded availability of malaria vaccines heralds a new chapter in combating this deadly disease. Governments’ proactive engagement and health systems’ preparedness are pivotal in facilitating the successful rollout of the immunization programme. Training, communication strategies, and robust cold chain infrastructure are essential components in ensuring the widespread distribution of these important vaccines to protect the children of the country,” said Hamida Lasseko, UNICEF South Sudan Representative.

    “The rollout of the malaria vaccine is a game-changer in our fight against this deadly disease. With the support of our partners, we are committed to protecting young children and reducing the malaria burden in the country,” said Dr Humphrey Karamagi, WHO Representative for South Sudan. “WHO AFRO has deployed experts to support the rollout, ensuring the effective introduction and distribution of the malaria vaccine by leveraging extensive expertise from prior vaccine initiatives within the region.”

    The joint efforts of the Ministry of Health, Gavi, UNICEF, WHO, and other health partners demonstrate the shared commitment to integrating these life-saving vaccines into the national immunization program. This milestone not only signifies progress in the battle against malaria but also underscores the collective dedication to safeguarding the health and well-being of children in South Sudan and beyond.

  • Unleash Your Power at NPL’s FemmeFit Fest!

    Unleash Your Power at NPL’s FemmeFit Fest!

    Ready to transform your fitness game? Join us for an empowering day at the FEMMEFIT FEST by Nutritional Performance Labs (NPL), a leading name in sports nutrition, on 27 July 2024 at Pinnacle College, Linden, Johannesburg!

    Imagine spending a glorious winter morning under the warm Jozi sun, surrounded by a vibrant community of like-minded people, all passionate about health and fitness. At FEMMEFIT FEST, you’ll get the chance to work out with some of the industry’s most inspiring instructors, each bringing their unique energy and expertise to the event. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself with a high-intensity bootcamp, find your rhythm in a dance session, or embrace mindfulness in a peaceful zen moment, this festival offers something for everyone. It’s more than just a workout—it’s a celebration of strength, camaraderie, and self-love.

    But that’s not all! FEMMEFIT FEST is also a fantastic opportunity to shop your favourite fitness brands and discover new ones. We’ve gathered an exciting lineup of vendors offering exclusive deals and must-have products to enhance your fitness journey.

    Featured Vendors:

    • Missfit Boxing – Explore the latest in boxing gear and apparel for women who want to train like champions (Missfit Boxing)
    • Hydrade – Keep yourself refreshed and fuelled with premium hydration solutions tailored for active lifestyles (Hydrade)
    • Monique Fit – Get your hands on top-quality fitness gear and apparel endorsed by Monique herself, a leading name in the fitness world (Monique Fit)
    • Freddy Wear – Discover stylish and comfortable activewear designed to make you feel fabulous while working out or on the go (Freddy Wear)
    • Nutritional Performance Labs (NPL) – Stock up on advanced nutritional supplements that support your health and performance goals (NPL)
    • NPL Prolifestyle – Explore a range of lifestyle products aimed at enhancing your overall wellness and vitality (PLS)
    • Fitfood4U – Fuel your body with delicious, healthy meal options designed for fitness enthusiasts (Fitfood4U)

    Aaaaand… MAC Cosmetics South Africa will be launching their new #GlowPlay Cushiony Blush at FemmeFit Fest, a mega-viral bouncy blush a bouncy, buildable blush that provides glowy colour in a lightweight formula with skin-conditioning ingredients.

    With these amazing vendors all in one place, you can enjoy a day of shopping and snagging great deals on the latest fitness products, apparel, and nutritional supplements. It’s the perfect chance to refresh your workout wardrobe, upgrade your gear, and discover new favourites that keep you motivated and looking your best.

     Event Schedule:

    • 09:30 – 10:00 | Registration and Welcome
    • 10:00 – 10:30 | Energize with Monique’s Bootcamp (Monique Fit)
    • 10:30 – 10:45 | Hydration Break
    • 10:45 – 11:15 | Bounce to the Beat with Jumping Queens (Jumping Queens)
    • 11:15 – 11:30 | Hydration Break
    • 11:30 – 12:00 | Groove with Cherrie Dance Session
    • 12:00 – 12:30 | Find Your Zen with Joelene’s Mindfulness (Mindset Avenue)
    • 12:30 – 13:00 | Prize Giving and Competitions

    Goodie Bags & Prizes: Every participant receives a goodie bag worth over R1250! Plus, take part in fun challenges and win amazing spot prizes and social media competitions throughout the day.

    Don’t wait! Secure your spot for a day filled with fitness, fun, and fabulousness at FEMMEFIT FEST!

  • Harnessing the Power of AI in Public Relations

    Harnessing the Power of AI in Public Relations

    In the fast-paced realm of public relations (PR), where communication and perception are paramount, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force. AI technologies are revolutionizing the way PR professionals strategize, execute campaigns, and engage with audiences, offering a plethora of benefits that are reshaping the industry landscape.

    1. Enhanced Audience Insights

    AI-driven analytics provide PR practitioners with unparalleled access to detailed audience insights. By analyzing vast amounts of data from social media, news sources, and online forums in real-time, AI can identify trends, sentiment shifts, and emerging issues. This capability enables PR teams to craft more targeted and effective messaging that resonates with specific audience segments. Understanding audience preferences and behaviors also helps in anticipating crises and proactively managing public perception.

    2. Precision in Media Monitoring

    Traditionally, monitoring media coverage involved labor-intensive processes. AI-powered tools now automate this task with greater accuracy and speed. AI algorithms can scan millions of articles, broadcasts, and social media posts to track mentions, detect relevant topics, and gauge sentiment. This real-time monitoring not only keeps PR professionals informed but also allows for swift responses to emerging issues or opportunities.

    3. Personalized Communication

    AI facilitates personalized communication at scale. Chatbots powered by natural language processing (NLP) can interact with stakeholders, responding to inquiries and providing information in a conversational manner. This automation frees up PR teams to focus on high-level strategy and relationship-building while ensuring consistent and immediate engagement with the public.

    4. Predictive Analytics

    Predictive analytics, powered by AI, empower PR practitioners to forecast outcomes based on historical data and current trends. This capability aids in strategic planning, crisis preparedness, and campaign optimization. By identifying potential challenges and opportunities early on, PR professionals can develop proactive strategies that mitigate risks and maximize impact.

    5. Content Creation and Curation

    AI tools are increasingly used to generate and curate content. From drafting press releases and articles to suggesting topics based on trending keywords, AI can streamline the content creation process. This not only saves time but also ensures content relevance and SEO optimization, enhancing visibility and engagement.

    6. Crisis Management and Reputation Monitoring

    In the digital age, managing crises swiftly and effectively is crucial. AI-powered sentiment analysis tools can monitor public sentiment in real-time, alerting PR teams to potential issues before they escalate. This proactive approach allows for prompt intervention and strategic communication to protect and enhance an organization’s reputation.

    7. Improved ROI and Efficiency

    AI streamlines PR workflows, reducing manual tasks and optimizing resource allocation. Automated reporting and performance analytics provide insights into campaign effectiveness, enabling PR professionals to demonstrate tangible ROI to stakeholders. By leveraging AI, organizations can achieve greater efficiency, agility, and cost-effectiveness in their PR efforts.

    Conclusion

    As AI continues to evolve, its role in public relations will only grow in significance. By leveraging AI-driven insights and automation, we have been able to advance and navigate the complexities of modern communication landscapes with greater agility and effectiveness.

    As one the leading Public relations company in Pretoria, and the larger South Africa, MillionsworthPR’s decision to embrace AI tools in 2021 as part of our development strategies has not only enhanced strategic decision-making and crisis management but also fosters deeper connections with audiences through personalized and data-driven approaches. In essence, AI is not just transforming public relations—it’s redefining what’s possible in building and managing public perception in the digital age.

  • Breaking the silence: Let’s talk about IBD and support those affected

    Breaking the silence: Let’s talk about IBD and support those affected

    JOHANNESBURG – Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterised by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract , which will affect the comfort, and therefore quality of life, of patients with the condition.

    Apart from the pain and ongoing inconvenience experienced by patients, these differences from one’s peers could lead to a negative self-perception and fear of stigmatisation. The self-imposed limitations of social participation could lead to total social isolation. Unpredictability of symptoms such as incontinence, and feelings of vulnerability, insecurity, and limited perceived attractiveness, can negatively affect one’s sense of personal autonomy, and would make the patient reluctant to enter situations of intimacy, and even the everyday workplace. In addition, the burdensome but necessary adjustments to diet and lifestyle could lead patients to a position of resignation.

    Vanessa Snow, Head of Medical Affairs at Janssen South Africa, said that people often confuse IBD with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). Both are common illnesses that affect the gut, she points out, but despite their similar acronyms and symptoms, they are very different. Prolonged inflammation brought on by IBD, if left unchecked, results in damage to the gastrointestinal tract and can even be life-threatening if not treated early.

    “Along with late diagnosis, there is also the very real possibility of misdiagnosis,” warns Snow. Several diseases mimic IBD clinically, which calls for careful and repeated evaluations, if necessary. A cautious consideration of the patient’s clinical, radiographic, endoscopic, and histopathologic features needs to be undertaken, to establish a correct diagnosis.

    Understanding the differences between IBD and IBS is important for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. It’s even possible to have both conditions concurrently, which is why a thorough diagnosis is crucial.

    The umbrella term “IBD” breaks down into two main categories: Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis: (1)

    Crohn’s Disease:

    If you have Crohn’s Disease (CD), you can experience swelling of any part of the gastrointestinal system, from the mouth all the way to the anus. (5) People of any age can have CD, but most people start experiencing symptoms between the ages of 20 and 30.

    “People living with Crohn’s Disease,” says Snow, “will experience several symptoms, although not necessarily concurrently, and in different combinations from one patient to another. The signs to look out for,” she cautions, “include ongoing diarrhea, unnatural weight loss, stomach pain or cramps, and blood in stools. The patient could also feel ongoing exhaustion or low-grade fevers.”

    Crohn’s is a chronic disease, which means that it’s incurable, and can only be treated symptomatically. Patients will have periods during which the symptoms are active (which are known as ‘flares’) followed by periods of complete remission, during which the patient experiences no symptoms.

    Ulcerative Colitis:

    Ulcerative Colitis (UC) only affects the large intestine (colon) and rectal area, the lowest part of the intestine. Inflammation in these zones can result in small ulcers or sores, which would, in time, become swollen and infected.

    “Symptoms that could be expected with this condition,” explains Snow, “include diarrhea; frequent trips to the toilet; blood, mucus, or pus in the stool; and stomach pains. (9) As it is with the symptoms of Crohn’s Disease, they’re uncomfortable, and can also be socially embarrassing.”

    The outlook for patients

    Snow reminds us that UC, like its companion CD, is a chronic condition of the gastrointestinal system that never goes away completely and can be unpredictable. Just as CD patients can expect stretches of good health (remission) along with flares (relapses), people with UC have a similar journey to travel.

    “At Janssen,” Snow reassures us, “our research and development keep us at the forefront of developing medication to alleviate these unpleasant symptoms, and we take comfort in knowing that these interventions, along with surgery in some cases, will keep patients feeling better, and for longer periods.” (10)

  • Implementing Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality in Classroom Learning

    Implementing Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality in Classroom Learning

    Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) have rapidly evolved from their nascent stages into powerful educational tools over the past few decades. As an Academic and the Teaching, Learning & Manager at Regent Business School, Bryson Pather has observed how these immersive technologies revolutionise the way we teach and learn. Initially limited to experimental and niche applications, VR and AR have expanded their reach into diverse fields, including education.

    They offer transformative potential for creating engaging, interactive, and inclusive learning environments. By transporting students into immersive digital realms or overlaying digital enhancements on their real-world surroundings, these technologies make abstract concepts tangible and foster deeper understanding. In this insightful piece, Pather explores how VR and AR are being integrated into educational settings, from virtual labs and historical reconstructions to business simulations and architectural visualisations. By embracing these advancements, educators can offer personalised and dynamic learning experiences, preparing students for the demands of a digital future.

    Over the past few decades, VR and AR have evolved rapidly. From early experiments in the 1960s and ’70s to the commercial availability of devices like Oculus Rift and Microsoft HoloLens, these technologies have advanced in accessibility, affordability, and functionality. Today, they are increasingly used in various sectors, including gaming, healthcare, and education, demonstrating their broad potential. But what is Virtual Reality (VR)? VR creates a fully immersive digital environment that users can interact with, often requiring headsets and motion controllers. On the other hand, Augmented Reality (AR) overlays digital information in the real world, enhancing the user’s perception of their environment through devices like smartphones or AR glasses. Both technologies offer unique experiences but differ significantly in their execution and application.

    Immersive technologies like VR and AR not only capture students’ attention, making learning more interactive and enjoyable, but they also promote inclusivity in the classroom. By providing a dynamic and stimulating learning environment, these technologies can significantly increase student engagement and motivation. Studies have shown that immersive experiences can improve information retention and understanding. VR and AR allow students to visualise complex concepts, interact with 3D models, and experience scenarios that would be difficult or impossible to recreate in a traditional classroom setting (Brown et al., 2023).

    These technologies facilitate experiential learning by enabling students to practice skills and apply theoretical knowledge in a safe, controlled environment. For instance, medical students can perform virtual surgeries, while engineering students can test designs in a virtual lab (Gonzalez & Torres, 2021). Advancements like these are a boon for various learning styles, offering visual, auditory, and kinaesthetic learners’ opportunities to engage with content in ways that suit their preferences. Together, VR and AR can provide customisable learning experiences that address individual needs, thereby supporting students with disabilities.

    Examples of VR and AR in education include virtual science labs where students can conduct experiments without physical materials, historical reconstructions that bring ancient civilisations to life, and business simulations that allow students to experience real-world decision-making processes. One notable example in South Africa is the implementation of AR by the University of Cape Town in their architecture programmes. They have developed an AR application that allows students to visualise and interact with 3D models of buildings and structures.

    This innovation enables students to explore architectural designs in a more immersive and hands-on manner, enhancing their understanding and creativity Universities and business schools also use VR for leadership and management training simulations, providing students with realistic scenarios to practice decision-making and problem-solving skills. VR and AR also facilitate collaborative learning by enabling students to work together in virtual environments regardless of physical location. These technologies benefit remote learning, offering immersive experiences that traditional online education often lacks.

    However, the cost of VR and AR equipment and the need for robust technical infrastructure can be significant barriers to adoption. Ensuring all students have access to these technologies is crucial for equitable implementation. Some educators may hesitate to adopt VR and AR due to a lack of familiarity or training, however providing professional development and demonstrating the benefits of these technologies can help overcome this resistance. Environments where VR and AR are the norm raise privacy and ethical issues, particularly regarding data collection and student interactions. Establishing clear guidelines and policies is essential to address these concerns (Davies, 2022). Phased implementation, starting with pilot programs and gradually expanding, can help manage costs and technical challenges. Engaging stakeholders, including educators, students, and parents, is critical for successful adoption.

    Technologies such as 5G, AI, and advanced haptics are set to enhance VR and AR experiences, making them even more immersive and accessible. These developments will likely expand the educational applications of immersive technologies, resulting in long-term benefits in education including better-prepared graduates with practical experience, enhanced critical thinking skills, and improved collaboration abilities. These technologies align with industry trends towards digital transformation and lifelong learning (Brown, 2024). Business schools can lead the adoption of immersive technologies by integrating them into their curricula and promoting their use in executive education and professional development programs. It stands to reason that educators, HR managers, and business professionals should explore and invest in VR and AR technologies to stay ahead of the curve to ensure they have significant potential to transform education and training. Ongoing research and collaboration between educational institutions and technology developers are essential to fully realising the potential of VR and AR, such partnerships can drive innovation and ensure that these technologies meet the evolving needs of education.

    Educators can provide more engaging, effective, and inclusive educational experiences by integrating VR and AR into classroom learning. Embracing these technologies can transform how we teach and learn, preparing students for the future in an increasingly digital world.

  • Starbucks Champions Young Innovators: Empowering Change Makers to Compete Globally. Be part of this journey.

    Starbucks Champions Young Innovators: Empowering Change Makers to Compete Globally. Be part of this journey.

    Cape Town, South Africa – On Saturday, June 1st the V&A Waterfront was buzzing with excitement as Starbucks South Africa hosted Booster Kids, a local robotics club, for a day filled with innovation, creativity, and delicious Frappuccino’s! Our store was transformed into a playground of possibilities, where young minds showcased their talents and shared their dreams.

    The Booster Kids team, Checkmate, is gearing up to represent the Western Cape at the First Lego League (FLL) Asia Pacific Open Invitational in Sydney, Australia from July 4-7, 2024. And we couldn’t be prouder to support these future world-changers!

    Guests were treated to an impressive demonstration of the Checkmate team’s robot run. They also presented their heartwarming innovation project, which reimagines chess to be accessible for blind individuals – a project inspired by a team member’s mother who lost her sight. A wonderful testament to their creativity and compassion!

    “Robotics has become my new passion. I hope to one day create something with VAR in soccer,” shared Ryan Fortuin, a passionate 12-year-old team member.

    Kids and parents got hands-on with a basic Lego build and explored the coding programme that powers these amazing robots. It was a day of learning, building, and human connection for all kinds of people from different backgrounds with varying interests. Jair February, an 11-year-old with a keen interest in robotics, said, “I joined Booster Kids because I’m not very good at sports. I really like Lego, and robotics gave me a sense of purpose.”

    The highlight for many was the “Build Your Own Frappuccino” station. Kids unleashed their inner barista, creating custom drinks with sugar-free syrups and no coffee, making delightful concoctions they could proudly call their own. Passersby were also invited to enjoy the robotics demonstration, spreading the excitement throughout the mall. To reward those who sponsored these inventive kids, the first 50 donors received exclusive Starbucks hampers, packed with delicious goodies.

    “Robotics turned out to be something I enjoyed, so I decided to join and now I’m doing this!” said Abigail Schubert, a bright 12-year-old with dreams of a future in engineering.

    “At Starbucks, we believe in supporting young innovators who have the potential to change the world. The creativity and dedication of the Booster Kids team are truly inspiring, and we’re proud to be part of their journey,” enthused Leah McCrae, Managing Director of Starbucks South Africa. “This event also ties in perfectly with Youth Month as we celebrate the potential and achievements of our incredible youth,” she added.

    We wish the Booster Kids team the best of luck at the FLL Asia Pacific Open Invitational in Sydney. Go Team Checkmate!

  • The Trailer for “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence has been released by Sony Pictures

    The Trailer for “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence has been released by Sony Pictures

    The first official trailer for Bad Boys: Ride or Die has been released and it teases the comeback of Martin Lawrence and Will Smith as detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett.

    Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, who directed the highly successful Bad Boys For Life back in 2020, are back to lead the much-anticipated sequel, which stars Smith and Lawrence, respectively.

    The film’s cast includes Rhea Seehorn and Eric Dane, along with returning cast members Vanessa Hudgens, Alexander Ludwig, Paula Núñez, and Jacob Scipio.

    The next film in the franchise, commences some time after the end of Bad Boys For Life, and is teased to be an action-packed one which also provides more details on how the new and returning cast will fit into the narrative.

    The trailer reveals a shocking twist: Joe Pantoliano’s Captain Conrad Howard will be making a surprise return in the upcoming film—at least in video form.

    Howard was a beloved member of the Bad Boys cast from the first film in the series, released in 1993, but he tragically lost his life in Bad Boys For Life. In the upcoming film, Howard is posthumously accused of corruption, and Mike and Marcus are also supposed to be implicated as they try to find the truth. Howard warns them in a video, “don’t trust anybody.”

    The latest teaser also reveals Seehorn and Dane’s character placement within the cast of Bad Boys: Ride or Die.

    Seehorn (Better Call Saul) will portray a law enforcement official who is supposedly in charge of the manhunt for Mike and Marcus when they become fugitives.

    On the other hand, Dane (Euphoria) is shown as a villain, even though it’s unclear what he wants precisely.

    Reunited as AMMO (Advanced Miami Metro Operations) members, Hudgens, Ludwig, and Núñez appear to be allies once more.

    The teaser also makes it evident that Bad Boys: Ride or Die will carry on the franchise’s history of fusing humour with spectacular action scenes. Much of the humour in the franchise stems from the banter between Mike and Marcus in particular, and the next sequel won’t deviate from this.

  • Dani Alves: Neymar’s father to pay former Brazilian footballer’s bail amount

    Dani Alves: Neymar’s father to pay former Brazilian footballer’s bail amount

    Former Brazilian footballer, Dani Alves was given a four-and-a-half year prison sentence after being found guilty of sexual assault. Alves has however, already served more than a year of this sentence.

    Alves, who at first would not acknowledge having intercourse with the victim, altered his story five times during the trial. He then admitted to doing it but lying in order to conceal the adultery from his wife.

    The prosecutor first pushed for a nine-year term, arguing that the nature of the offense and Spain’s recently passed consent laws following a gang-rape case in 2022, rendered 4.5 years insufficient.

    His lawyer requested for his release on the grounds that the 40-year-old had already spent a quarter of his four-and-a-half-year sentence in pre-trial custody after his arrest in January 2023.

    Alves was found to be a no-flight risk and incapable of deleting evidence, which led to the Spanish court’s decision. A 1,000-meter restraining order had also been obtained against him by his victim.

    As a result of the judicial system freezing Dani Alves’ accounts, it appeared that the fullback would not be able to afford the bail amount.
    However, ‘La Vanguardia’ reported that Neymar’s father will be responsible for making the one million euro bail payment, which will free the former football player from prison.

    He will be released on bail as soon as Neymar’s father deposits the money and a new order is issued authorising it.

    After his conviction, Barcelona removed Alves’s status as a “club legend” from their website.

  • CemAir faces public backlash after live video of socialite, Shamiso Mosaka goes viral

    CemAir faces public backlash after live video of socialite, Shamiso Mosaka goes viral

    Domestic airline CemAir is facing backlash following a viral live video of  MTV Base presenter, Shamiso Mosaka.

    The video shows Shamiso Mosaka, the daughter of South African journalist and broadcaster Azania Mosaka, being forced off a plane by a policeman.

    When Shamiso allegedly exclaimed “what the f***” during a phone call with a friend, she was asked to get off the plane, leading to the altercation.

    One of the passengers said that no one had raised any complaints over Shamiso’s actions. But conflicts with the CemAir flight attendant are said to be what resulted in her being forcefully kicked off the aircraft by the South African Police Service (SAPS).

    Shamiso accused the flight attendants of racism and said she was being mistreated during the live video that was posted on social media.

    The socialite can further be seen returning to her seat inside the aircraft and refusing to get up. She is then followed by one of the policemen, who orders her to go outside but instead goes to the captain’s cabin, where the pilot asks her to turn off her phone.

    “I cannot switch off the phone, I wanted to switch it off because I thought that I going to get to fly.”

    Since then, CemAir has encountered major backlash on social media. They acknowledged that Shamiso had been forced to leave the aircraft, stating that the situation had however been exaggerated on social media and that the narrative was false.

    They claimed that Shamiso had to be taken off the flight because she refused to adhere to the regulations of the airline.

    In a statement detailing the incident, CemAir said that Shamiso was running late before turning “unruly and abusive” and defying the flight attendant’s “lawful” instructions.

    CemAir pledged to cooperate with law enforcement in order to look into the situation more thoroughly and potentially press charges.

  • A José Mourinho documentary to premiere on Netflix in 2025

    A José Mourinho documentary to premiere on Netflix in 2025

    Netflix has officially announced that it will premiere a documentary series about football legend José Mourinho in 2025.

    The show will look at the 61-year-old’s football career twenty years after he led Porto to winning the Champions League. The series will feature interviews from Mourinho and the players that trained under him.

    While still in charge of Roma at the beginning of January this year, Mourinho happened to have revealed some details about this forthcoming Netflix documentary.

    “When the documentary comes out everyone will say I’m a total idiot. When Portugal arrived I immediately told the president about it. When Saudi Arabia arrived I immediately told the president about it. This is why I don’t think they talk to other coaches behind my back, for me it’s not like that because there is reciprocity.”

    Mourinho is currently unemployed since being laid off by Roma on January 16, with whom he won the Europa Conference League 2022 (which was their first trophy in 14 years).

    Mourinho has won 26 major trophies which include two titles with Chelsea in 2005 and 2006, both of which were won under Roman Abramovich’s ownership, and a treble-winning season at Inter Milan in 2011. In addition, he won the 2012 La Liga championship with Real Madrid, the 2015 Premier League trophy upon his return to Chelsea, and the 2017 Europa League championship with Manchester United.

    He seems to have lost some of his charm in recent years, particularly following his unpleasant time at Tottenham Hotspur and his criticism of the team’s poor play. His conduct towards Anthony Taylor following Roma’s Europa League final loss to Sevilla last season is only one example of how he has been criticised for his treatment of match officials in other instances.

    John Battsek (who also produced the Beckham film) is producing the documentary, while Joe Pearlman, director of Lewis Capaldi: How I’m Feeling, Now and Robbie Williams is directing it.

    The film will look at the lawless carnage that took place when Italy defeated England on penalties in the 2020 European Championship final. The final at Wembley Stadium could only hold 60,000 due to COVID laws, meaning that there would be vacant seats. As a result, people stormed the stadium, transforming the initial excitement into mayhem.

    Published in December 2021, the independent review by Baroness Casey of Blackstock stated that a day that ought to have been a celebration turned into “a source of national shame” and that there were just a few “near misses” that prevented it from becoming yet another chapter in the tragic history of football.

  • Morocco’s FUS Rabat claim victory over South Africa’s Cape Town Tigers

    Morocco’s FUS Rabat claim victory over South Africa’s Cape Town Tigers


    FUS Rabat defeated South African team, Cape Town Tigers 84 to 58 on Tuesday night at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria during the fourth season of the Basketball Africa League (BAL-2024).

    Said El Bouzidi’s team dominated the game from beginning to end. They won 24–18 in the first quarter and 44–34 in the second, extending their lead.

    Bouzidi’s team came back from the locker room with even more confidence, winning 71 to 44 before extending their lead to 84 to 58 in the fourth quarter. Last Saturday in Pretoria, FUS Rabat also defeated Angolan team, Petro de Luanda, 82–73 during the opening match.

    Their second game that was supposed to take place on Sunday against Dynamo Basketball Club (BBC) was cancelled due to the Burundian team’s failure to adhere to the league’s regulations regarding uniform and jersey requirements. FUS Rabat is scheduled to play against Petro de Luanda next Thursday.

    The BAL-2024 is made up of two other conferences in addition to the “Kalahari Conference” (March 09–17), namely, the “Nile Conference” (April 19–27) in Egypt, and the “Sahara Conference” (May 4–12) in Senegal.

    Five of the twelve teams that will play in BAL-2024 are anticipated to be returning for their fourth season in the league, while the other two will be making their debuts.

    Twelve games will be played in the group phase where each conference will play the other three teams twice.

    The two top teams from each conference and the two best teams in third place will travel to Kigali, Rwanda for four ranking games. Eight knockout games will then follow the four ranking games from Friday, May 24 to Saturday, June 1.

  • John Cena presents an award at The 2024 Oscars ‘NAKED’

    John Cena presents an award at The 2024 Oscars ‘NAKED’

    There were several jaw-dropping moments at The 96th Academy Awards which was hosted for the fourth time by late-night US talk show Jimmy Kimmel. Actor and WWE wrestler, John Cena left the attendees at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles in complete disbelief.

    The actor from “The Marine” flaunted his toned body as he grudgingly took the stage at Los Angeles’ Dolby Theatre on Sunday to present the Best Costume Design award.

    John Cena presenting an award ‘naked’ at The Oscars 2024.

    A segment of a sketch featuring Kimmel that alluded to one of the most unsettling incidents in Academy Awards history—the 1974 ceremony, in which an identified man ran across the stage.

    “Can you imagine if a nude man ran across the stage today? I said, can you imagine if a nude man ran across the stage today? Wouldn’t that be crazy?”, asked Kimmel.

    Then, shirtless Cena raised his head, but he said that he didn’t “feel right” about walking out.

    “I changed my mind. I don’t want to do the streaker bit. I just don’t feel right about it. It’s an elegant event, you know, you should feel shame right now for suggesting such a tasteless joke.”, Cena told the host.

    “The male body is not a joke,” Cena shot back in response to the talk show host’s argument that the skit was “supposed to be funny.”

    The crowd laughed as the wrestler eventually walked onto the stage with a big envelope covering his intimate parts.

    However, he was unable to open the envelope, so there was a fast cut before he appeared again in a golden toga.

    Not only did the audience members witness the moment in disbelief, but viewers who chose to leave comments on social media platforms were also in shock.