Posted inNews/Politics

Mandela a symbol of social cohesion beyond black and white

What happened outside the private-owned Mediclinic in Arcadia, Pretoria, in the last six weeks that Nelson Mandela was in hospital was neither a make-believe kaleidoscope of non-racialism nor uncaring citizens trying to be what they are not. Rather, this monumental expression of solidarity, cooperation and interaction of a multi-racial, multi-ethnic, trans-class and largely public display […]

Posted inGeneral

What does authentically African mean?

Over the last 20 years, self-appointed custodians of “authentic Africaness” have derogatively referred to fellow blacks as “coconuts”, that is, citizens with black skins but white souls or cultural tendencies. Perhaps instead of feeling indignant and insulted, it is important to provide a context for what is meant by this label. It may be long […]

Posted inMedia

Everyone has a story…so write a book

Not too long ago I attended the first Jozi Book Fair held at MuseuMAfrica in Newtown. It was the initiative of Khanya College to create a space for small independent publishing houses to display their books, newspapers, highlight opportunities, share resources, reconnect and, hopefully, create an information-exchange forum and networking platform. I was impressed by […]

Posted inMedia

I know why Mbeki won’t endorse black radio

I know why former president Thabo Mbeki was evasive when asked to endorse Power FM recently. The Renaissance man was, rightly, concerned about the role of black radio (sic) in not only speaking truth to power but disseminating enlightening information and knowledge that builds self-confidence and a spirit of self-determination among the previously disadvantaged. When […]

Posted inEqualityNews/Politics

Let’s celebrate the good times

Not too long ago, the government launched the framework to celebrate the 20th anniversary of democracy and freedom at Freedom Park. The event was attended by a group of eminent citizens who not only embody the values enshrined in the Constitution but in their own work and life display unconditional love for the country. Sadly, […]

Posted inLifestyleMedia

The fading beat of Drum magazine

Drum was the only magazine when the winds of change were blowing through the African continent in 1957. It celebrated its 60th birthday recently. The best talent available in the urban South African community was, like moth to light, attracted to the charismatic power of its visionary and prophetic founder, a Mr Jim Bailey. It […]

Posted inGeneralLifestyle

Elites who drive like taxi drivers

I find that some blacks are inclined to drive like taxi drivers irrespective of the model car they drive or their social status. It would seem that when it comes to doing the right thing on the road there is no difference between motorists from privileged suburban communities from, say, taxi drivers from the working […]