Sawubona July/August 2024 by mikatekomedia

WILD

EXPLORING THE EASTERN CAPE'S UNTAMED COAST

BEAUTY

THE HOME OF LEGENDS

This Mandela Month ﬂy to Gqeberha to visit Madiba's birth province

WHERE WATER MEETS SKY Zambia’s shoebill puppets in the Bangweulu Wetlands

AUSTRALIA BY TRAIN

All aboard the Indian Paciﬁc for a lux rail journey

African Natural Treasures

Africa’s diamond and Tanzanite treasures captivate globally with beauty, rarity, and immense value. Diamonds shaped history and economy, while Tanzanite’s unique blue hues enchant as a sought-after gemstone found solely in Tanzania. Symbolizing luxury and elegance, these precious stones mesmerize admirers worldwide.

Discover ethically sourced diamonds and Tanzanite jewelry at Shimansky in Cape Town. With international certification and a commitment to sustainability, their exquisite pieces embody both beauty and ethical integrity. Enjoy guilt-free shopping and support responsible practices while indulging in the allure of their precious gems.

“Your African legacy for generations to come “

NATURAL FANCY YELLOW

Diamonds from the West Coast of South Africa

Extraordinarily rare and mesmerising, Fancy Yellow Diamonds are beautifully transformed into exclusive Shimansky creations, allowing you to savour the South African sun wherever you go.

CONGRATS ON 90 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

Cover: iStock

ying to Perth, hop aboard the Indian Paci c to explore more of the country

30 Where water meets sky

Conservationists in Zambia’s Bangweulu

Wetlands use puppets to hand-rear shoebill chicks for reintroduction into the wild

36 The future of African travel

Celebrated as the birth province of liberation struggle icons like Nelson Mandela, we turn our attention to the Eastern Cape this Mandela Month

22 Touchdown in Perth

Celebrating SAA’s inaugural ight between Johannesburg and Perth

24 Australia by train

One of the world’s most beautiful and luxurious rail journeys is in Australia. After

We take a look at emerging trends and strategies driving the evolution of African tourism

40 SA wins at Chelsea Flower Show

South Africa stole the show at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show

42 A fusion of creativity, culture & aesthetics

We celebrateSouth African artist Dr Esther Mahlangu whose art retrospective is currently on show at the Iziko South African National Gallery in Cape Town

BEN MACK

Australia by train 24

“Travel writer. Loves Australia, and trains—making writing about travelling Down Under by rail a joy.”

WELCOME TO OUR WORLD

47 The latest news from SAA, plus ight information, routes and travel tips

TOUCHDOWN

68 Events

Looking for things to do after landing at one of SAA or our codeshare partners’ destinations? Consider one of these events

MIKATEKO MEDIA

Executive Director/Managing Director

Desireé Johnson | desiree.johnson@mikatekomedia.co.za

Executive Director/Content Director Ingrid Jones

EDITORIAL

Editor-in-Chief Ingrid Jones

Commissioning Editor Leanne Feris

Designer Hanri Gerischer

Copy Editor Candice Landie

Proofreader Tamlyn Head

Digital Editor Liesl Frankson

Contributors Na sa Akabor, Ben Mack, Welcome Mandla Lishivha, Sbu Mkwanazi, Iga Motylska and Steve Smith

ADVERTISING & PRODUCTION

Sales Director Desireé Johnson

Commercial & Sales Manager Nick Armstrong

+27 (0) 83 412 4904 nick.armstrong@mikatekomedia.co.za

Sales Team

Merle Philander

+27 (0) 83 700 2700 merle.philander@mikatekomedia.co.za

Siphesihle Magubane

+27 (0) 72 152 5842 siphesihle.magubane@mikatekomedia.co.za

Tafadzwa Shayawabaya

+27 (0) 78 480 5713 tafadzwa.shayawabaya@mikatekomedia.co.za

Glenda Kulp

+27 (0) 73 917 2247 glenda.kulp@mikatekomedia.co.za

saasawubona.com

73 The connected traveller New tech you can use on your travels

77 The Tank in Tankwa

We took the new GWM Tank on a road trip to the Tankwa Karoo to do the unique Tanqua Kuru Bicycle Race. 80 Column: Sbu Mkwanazi Ups & downs of ying

IGA MOTYLSKA

Where water meets sky 30

“UNESCO site chaser, salsa dancer, unashamed greenie, deep-dive nerd, baked cheesecake addict.”

WELCOME MANDLA LISHIVHA

The future of African travel 36

“Author of Boy On The Run, journalist, an avid crocheter of hats and bags, and acclaimed (by family and friends) baker. Martha Stewart has nothing on me.”

Billy Masemola

+27 (0) 71 562 8564

masemolabmw@gmail.com

Sally Young +27 (0) 82 490 6961 sally.young@mikatekomedia.co.za

Production Manager Neilton Adams

PUBLISHED BY MIKATEKO MEDIA ON BEHALF OF SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS (SAA)

www.mikatekomedia.co.za | info@mikatekomedia.co.za

SAA EDITORIAL

Vimla Maistry

Head: Group Corporate A airs, South African Airways (SAA)

SAA CONTACTS

Customer Service:

Email: saacustomerservice@ ysaa.com

Mon-Fri 08:00-16:30 (GMT), excluding South African public holidays Twitter: @ ysaa_care

Reservations: Daily, including weekends and public holidays 06:00-22:00 (GMT) reservationsjnb@ ysaa.com, +27 (0) 11 978 1111 Voyager: Weekdays 07:00-21:00 (GMT) Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays 08:00-14:00 voyagerservicerecovery@ ysaa.com, +27 (0) 11 978 1234

Baggage Service (lost/damaged): Daily 08:00-16:30 (GMT) baggageservices@ ysaa.com, +27 (0) 11 978 2888

Refunds: Weekdays 08:00-16:30 (GMT), excluding South African public holidays New refund request: www. ysaa.com/refund-application +27119781786

Cargo: Weekdays 07:00-19:00 (GMT), Saturdays, Sundays & South African public holidays 07:00-14:00 saacargoreservations@ ysaa.com, +27 (0) 11 978 3366

Website queries: webhelp@ ysaa.com

PRINTED BY

The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of the Board and Management of South African Airways and Mikateko Media (Pty) Ltd, nor do we take responsibility for third-party advertising and pricing supplied. All correspondence regarding the publication should be directed to Mikateko Media.

with Vitality Traveller

Discover local hidden gems, visit international destinations and unlock more of Vitality Travel’s benefits with Vitality Traveller magazine. Bringing you exclusive stories, expert tips and breathtaking photography from the world’s most extraordinary places, Vitality Traveller offers you the insider secrets, cultural experiences, business on the go and family getaways that are all linked to the richest travel rewards network in the country.

August is a special

month. In the ancient cosmology of the indigenous peoples inhabiting southern Africa, this period was marked by the downpour of the first rain after our hard and dry winter. This first rain was given different names by the multiplicity of linguistic and cultural groups that have populated this part of the globe for centuries. All these names denoted the cleansing of the fields and renewal of the entire environment that this first post-winter rain effected. This July-August is a season of cleansing and renewal. For some, appropriately, it is time for that rejuvenating mid-year holiday.

In South Africa, August also happens to be Women’s Month, memorialising the gallant protest march to the Union Buildings in Pretoria by more than 20 000 women of all races against pass laws which would restrict the movements of black, Indian and coloured women on 9 August 1956. Now, as the national flag carrier of democratic South Africa, we celebrate this not only as a renewal of our national commitment to the empowerment of women and gender equality but also as a renewal of our commitment to fight against the increasingly rampant scourge of gender-based violence.

In the spirit of Women’s Month, we have this year decided, through this edition, to draw acclamation away from SAA’s own strides in empowering its female workforce so that we can, instead, celebrate women leaders in our sister organisations. You will in the pages of this magazine be introduced, amongst others, to the work of the CEO of SA Tourism, the Chairperson of the South African Railway Safety Regulator, and the historic National Aviation Gender Summit the South African Civil Aviation Authority is hosting on 21 August 2024.

Of course, the stepping-stone into the renewal spirit of August is our celebration of Nelson Mandela International Day on 18 July, a day celebrated globally by the resolution of the United Nations Organisation to mark Rolihlahla Nelson Mandela’s birthday. The spirit of Madiba (clan name) continues to propel us as we connect peoples and countries, promoting mutual understating, cultural exchange and economic development.

This issue of Sawubona is dedicated to showcasing the Eastern Cape, one of the nine provinces of South Africa. The rolling hills, alluring valleys, undulating plains of this part of South Africa are also the birth and now resting place of Madiba, the father of the South African nation. It is not out of flattery that this province is styled the Home of Legends. Its place in the history of anticolonial protest dates back to the late 1600s, when the amaXhosa people mounted ferocious wars against the extension of the European settler frontiers from around what is now Cape Town, into the north of Africa. The province is rich in liberation struggle heritage. It is the custodian of the memories not only of Mandela but of Robert Sobukwe, Steve Biko, Oliver Tambo, Govan Mbeki and countless heroes and heroines of the struggle for a free, antiracism country.

SAA now flies every day from Johannesburg into the heart of the Eastern Cape, the coastal city of Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth. Located at the geographic centre of this evocative part of South Africa, this city is both an economic hive and a not-to-be-missed

holiday destination.The city is ready to host visitors in what promises to be memorable adventures and fortunes.

SAA is proud that the breadth of the reach of its network of destinations is far beyond what meets the eye. From places like Gqeberha and the other cities we serve in southern Africa, we are able to expose travellers from all over the world to the wonders, mysteries and pleasures of this part of the globe.

We have been able to sustain this by maintaining SAA’s Star Alliance membership. This is an alliance of 25 airlines from around the world, whose mission is to offer air passengers seamless, world-class service across the products offered by its member carriers. When booking your next international trip with SAA, do ensure that you are informed of the possibilities of the services you can enjoy from alliance member carriers, such as access to airport lounges and easier facilitated flight connections. See page 54.

The Alliance was celebrated at this year’s Skytrax Awards. Star Alliance won the 2024 Best Airline Alliance, and the alliance’s Paris Charle de Gaule Airport lounge scooped the World Best Alliance Lounge award. Star Alliance is an extension of SAA for the benefit of our customers; that is why the latest aircraft added to our A320 fleet in July 2024 is adorned in Star Alliance branding.

Follow SAA as it expands its horizons far and beyond. Happy flying.

M JOHN LAMOLA Interim Chief Executive Officer (SAA)

CONGRATS ON 90 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

The Eastern Cape is

one of the most beautiful provinces in South Africa. Over and above its natural beauty, it is the little moments that catch you by surprise. It’s in the Eastern Cape, at a place called Kinkelbos, where my late husband was detained in solitary con nement for more than 500 days. It was on a road trip to Ginsberg to visit the ancestral home of the late South African liberation giant, Steve Biko that I started paying attention to the lush surroundings of the lallies (rolling hills). Both men were close acquaintances and comrades, and during their lifetime were responsible, with other leaders, for establishing a clinic named Zanempilo in the lallies near King Williams Town, where pregnant women would give birth. The clinic is still in existence and a wonderful reminder of the triumph of the human spirit.

Driving through the lallies speckled with cattle and huts, I was reminded about all the heroes and legends born in this beautiful province. Over and above its natural beauty, it should be on anyone’s bucket list to visit all the historical places where these intellectual giants planned the struggle for a democratic South Africa.

Go to the small town, visit the museums, talk to the locals, stay in the lallies. Visit Ginsberg and Zanempilo. Find the road that leads to Qunu, the birthplace of Nelson Mandela, the epitome of our struggle for democracy. It will change you.

ENJOY YOUR TRAVELS.

Ingrid Jones &

the

team

20% STYLISH. 80% DREAMER. 100% AFRICAN EXCELLENCE.

GETTING THERE

SAA flies between Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) in the Eastern Cape and Johannesburg seven days a week. Visit flysaa.com

LEGENDS The home of

Celebrated as the birth province of liberation struggle icons like Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Steve Biko, O.R. Tambo, Robert Sobukwe, Govan Mbeki and many more, we turn our attention to the Eastern Cape this Mandela Month. Fly to Gqeberha with SAA and then explore the rest of the province.

CONGRATS ON 90 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

With so much to explore in South Africa’s second largest province, we highlight the Eastern Cape’s nine regions and a few experiences to try the next time you’re there.

THE WILD COAST

The Wild Coast is the birth and resting place of the late former president Nelson Mandela and stretches from East London to Port Edward. The region is known for some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in the world. Think steep green hills with clusters of traditional Xhosa mud huts, windswept cliffs, deserted white beaches, forests, untameable waves and numerous shipwrecks.

••VisittheNelsonMandelaMuseum

Located in Mthatha, the museum chronicles the life of South Africa’s iconic former president, his struggle for democracy, and the end of the apartheid regime. The Nelson Mandela Museum also operates in a second site, the Nelson Mandela Youth and Heritage Centre in Qunu. At the centre in Qunu visitors can see sites of significance such as a sliding stone where Madiba used to play with his peers, ruins of a rondel where he was named Nelson on his first day of school, a family grave site not far from the centre, a church where he was baptised and a residential place where he lies buried. nelsonmandelamuseum.org.za

••VisittheHoleintheWall

Set just off the Wild Coast, south of Coffee Bay, the rocky archway was created millions of years ago by the relentless

Previous page: horse riding on the beach. This image: a picturesque view of the sunrise in Coffee Bay.

Left: a whale breaching. Right: bungee jump off the 216-metre-high Bloukrans Bridge

action of the waves crashing against the sandstone. The little holiday village close by shares the same name. According to Xhosa legend, this is the gateway to the world of their ancestors, and they refer to it as “esiKhaleni”, which means “place of thunder” or “place of sound”. wildcoast.co.za

••HiketheWildCoast

Visitors have a selection of trails to suit all types of hikers. The more rugged north with its rocky cliffs and deep river valleys will attract adventurous travellers who are prepared to carry their own bags and stay in backpackers and community homestays.The flatter terrain and sandy beaches of the south will appeal to those who want a gentle hiking experience and comfortable overnight accommodation. wildcoastwalk.co.za

TSITSIKAMMA

Tsitsikamma is a Khoi word meaning “place of abundant or sparkling water”. This region stretches from the Bloukrans River to the Tsitsikamma River in the east and is bordered by the Tsitsikamma Mountains and the Indian Ocean.

••HiketheOtterTrail

The 45km Otter Trail runs along the spectacular coastline between the Storms River mouth and Nature’s Valley, and

is considered one of the finest multi-day trails in the world. The trail is named after the shy, mostly nocturnal Cape clawless otter which inhabits the estuaries and streams of the South African coast. reservations@sanparks.org

••BungeejumpofftheBloukransBridge

The view from one of the world’s highest bridges captures all the majesty of the Bloukrans River valley before your bungee jump off the 216-metre-high bridge. Bloukrans Bungy uses pendulum bungy technology for the most comfortable bungee jump possible. faceadrenalin.com

••Segwaytheforest

Discover the Storms River Village and the Tsitsikamma Forest on a Segway. The guided tour takes you around the cool pine forest, indigenous forest over the historical Witteklip Bridge into the local township and to the 1 000-year-old Tsitsikamma Big Tree. segwayfun.co.za

••Tree-topcanopytour

A canopy tour takes you on an unforgettable adventure as you zipline from one platform to the next along a series of steel cables set amongst magnificent natural surroundings. Safe for almost all ages (recommended age group is between 7 – 70). stormsriver.com >

From left: the Otter Trail runs along the coastline between the Storms River mouth and Nature’s Valley. Right and far right: the Eastern Cape offers many hiking opportunities; a cheetah takinga rest; a view of the Umzimvubu River from Mount Thesiger, Port St Johns.

KOUGA

The Kouga region includes the towns of Humansdorp, Patensie and Hankie in the Gamtoos Valley, the Langkloof Valley, the Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the coastal towns of Oyster Bay, St Francis Bay and Jeffrey’s Bay.

••VisitSarahBaartman’sfinalrestingplace

Sarah Baartman was a Khoekhoe woman, was born in 1789 and raised within the Gamtoos Valley. She was enslaved and taken to Europe, where she was put on display for paying audiences. She died in 1815 after which her remains were displayed in a museum. She was finally laid to rest in Hankey along the banks of the Gamtoos River on 9 August 2002. Former president Thabo Mbeki declared her grave a national heritage site.

••HiketheBaviaansCaminoandChokkaTrail

The north-south route of the Baviaans Camino lends itself to novice horse riders accompanying hikers, supported by two vehicles. Overnight in farmhouses or tents. Starting in the Klein Karoo, the trail traverses the Baviaanskloof Mountain Range into the Baviaanskloof, and continues through the Kouga Mountain Range towards the coast. Travel 75km over four days and five nights. baviaanscamino.com

The Chokka Trail is a 62km slackpacking holiday between

Oyster Bay, St Francis Bay and Cape St Francis. A good way to see and experience the greater St Francis at your own pace and with overnight accommodation at guesthouses and a resort. chokkatrail.co.za

KAROO HEARTLAND

The Karoo Heartland is dominated by vast, flat plains, rocky mountains, and the biggest assortment of succulents in the world.Think red dust, thorny acacias, aloes, windmills, sheep, angora goats, and quaint towns.

••VisittheValleyofDesolation

The hauntingly beautiful Valley of Desolation was declared a national monument of geological and scenic significance in 1939. Geological formations with 120-metre-high columns of ancient eroded volcanic rock stand sentinel over the plains of Camdeboo. graaffreinet.co.za

Seerockartandfossils

On the Ganora guest farm, visitors can go on a guided informative walk to view Bushman and Khoi paintings, rock engravings and the James Kitching Fossil Centre. A museum, a medicinal plant tour and a game rehabilitation programme add to the offerings of Ganora. ganora.co.za >

A visit to the Eastern Cape is not complete without going to the Addo Elephant National Park.

••VisittheOwlHouse

A National Heritage Site, The Owl House and Camelyard in Nieu Bethesda represent South Africa’s foremost example of the art of Helen Martins. Having lived a troubled and challenging life, she transformed an ordinary Karoo home to a place of light and colour with a fantasy garden of sculptures. theowlhouse.co.za

SUNDAYS RIVER VALLEY

This is one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world, with five of the country’s seven biomes. The Sunday River Valley has one of the most densely populated elephant herds in the world.

••VisittheAddoElephantNationalPark

View the largest density of African elephants on the planet, Cape buffalo, leopard, black rhino, lion as well as great white shark and seasonal southern right whale in the marine section. addoenquiries@sanparks.org

••Haveaneducationalcheetahtour

Daniell Cheetah Project offers an educational predator tour by trained tour guides. This is a 1-hour guided educational

tour to see and learn more about the animals and their conservation status and the work done by the project. daniellcheetahproject.com

SUNSHINE COAST

Explore the spectacular strip of coastline between Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and East London, travelling through coastal towns and hamlets like Colchester, Alexandria, Kentonon-Sea, Port Alfred and Kidds beach. The route’s major attraction is its magnificent sandy coastline with many rivers, resorts and activities along the way, as well as spotting Bottlenose dolphins.

••Golfontwospectaculargolfcourses

The Royal Port Alfred Golf Club has stunning views. The course snakes through thickets of pristine coastal forest and over hilly dunes. Resident wildlife includes bushbuck, springbok, impala, blesbok, fallow deer, duiker, giant tortoises and abundant birdlife. rpagc.co.za

The magnificent Gary Player Championship 18-hole golf course at Fish River Golf Resort incorporates bent grass greens and unique challenges presented by the natural landscape. suninternational.com

••Ridehorsesonthebeach

For the adventurous, head 15km outside Port Alfred on the R72 for horse riding and hiking trails down steep dunes onto secluded beaches, and through dune forests with stunning views out to sea. threesistershorsetrails.co.za Or ride along golden beaches at Kenton-on-Sea and explore the many coves, dune fields and rivers along the way. beachcomberhorsetrails.co.za

FRONTIER COUNTRY

Traverse the area that saw nine frontier wars between the British and the Xhosa and the meeting place of five cultures: San, KhoeKhoe, Dutch, Xhosa and British. Much of this region’s pristine indigenous flora and fauna is still very accessible, making for breath-taking views, experiences and memories.

••Stopbyahistoricpub

The Pig and Whistle Inn in Bathurst has been providing hospitality for over 180 years and is home to the oldest continuously licensed pub in South Africa. facebook.com/thepigbathurst

••VisittheBigPineapple

Also in Bathurst, this landmark is the world’s largest pineapple building and was constructed by the agricultural community in the 1980s. The building is three stories high and contains a museum about pineapples as well as an observation platform.

••Spendamuseumday inMakhanda(Grahamstown)

The Amazwi Museum of South African Literature collects literary artefacts relating to the literature of all South African languages. Critical writing on the authors and their works is also collected, as well as writings on related subjects such as literary history, censorship and literary awards. amazwi.museum

The Albany Museum, established in 1855, is the second oldest museum in South Africa and consists of a family of seven buildings: Natural Sciences Museum, History Museum, Observatory Museum, Fort Selwyn, Old Provost military prison, Drostdy Arch and the Old Priest’s House leased to the National English Literary Museum. The Observatory Museum houses one of only two Victorian Cameras Obscura in the world (the other is in Bath, England) with a magical mirror that reflects the town onto a large circular table. am.org.za

AMATHOLE MOUNTAINS

This area, steeped in Xhosa culture and settler history, stretches from Adelaide to Stutterheim, with the Amathole Mountains on the horizon. Activities in the area include trout fishing, canoeing, bass fishing, mountain biking, archery and abseiling.

••EquinetherapyinHogsback

Enjoy equine therapy, emotional healing encouraged by interaction with horses, while taking in the magnificent mountain and forest views. Visitors interacting with horses by talking and brushing down their horse before going on an outride. Hogsback Horses for Healing also offers full moon outride experiences, with a fireside potjie and wholesome breakfast. markwckeese@gmail.com

••Adventuretime

Enjoy a range of adventure activities in Hogsback, including archery, abseiling and mountain biking. Do try the 5km mountain biking ride to the Madonna and Child Waterfall followed by a 35m abseiling experience next to the waterfall into the indigenous forest below. hogsbackadventures.co.za

EASTERN CAPE HIGHLANDS

Also known as “the Friendly N6” because of the hospitality of the local people, this region offers natural history, trout fishing, 4x4 trails, a taste of farm life, and driving around the mountain heights.

••Goatwalksinthemountains

Go on a full- or half-day walk with goats in the magnificent Wartrail Mountains in Rhodes Village. You will need to be relatively fit. rhodesinfo.co.za

••GoontheWartrailhorsetrails

Ride to the top of Senqu’s highest peaks, through picturesque valleys and rivers, to historical rock art paintings and sandstone features. Stay in self-catering, fully catered or cave-to-cave accommodation. Day rides, tailor-made group rides and annual rides for experienced cross-country riders. onthewartrail@gmail.com

••Flyfishinginfreshwater

The Rhodes/Barkly East area has amazing fly-fishing opportunities in the kilometres of mountain steams available to anglers. Many of the pristine rivers and streams originate up to 3 000 metres above sea level. wildtrout.co.za

GQEBERHA,

Gqeberha, previously known as Port Elizabeth or PE, is blessed with stunning beaches, interesting museums and memorials, award-winning wildlife destinations, and cultural and historical gems.

Gqeberha is a coastal hub in the Eastern Cape where locals proudly proclaim that everything lies within 15 minutes’ drive of the airport. It is one of the largest cities in South Africa, and lies 770km east of Cape Town, where it forms part of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, which links the city with the inland industrial towns of Uitenhage and Despatch.

Algoa Bay, the coastal strip of Nelson Mandela Bay, incorporates a 40km stretch of beaches, with protected areas for swimming at Kings Beach, Hobie Beach, Humewood Beach, Pollock Beach and Denville Beach. Fishing, sur ng, scuba diving, snorkelling and sailing are enjoyed at less populated spots such as Wildside, Sardinia Bay, Blue Horizon Bay, Bluewater Bay, Beachview and Schoenmakerskop. Gqeberha is also home to Route 67; a collection of 67 art pieces celebrating the years Nelson Mandela devoted to public life. It is a mix of visual arts, urban design and heritage, showcasing old Victorian churches; terraced cottages on Donkin Street where massive silver pipes catch the famous winds of Gqeberha and make music; a lighthouse that once

guided ships into Algoa Bay; and a large pyramid built by Donkin in memory of his wife. There is also a large metal cut-out of Nelson Mandela symbolically leading South Africans to vote in the country’s rst democratic election.

While in Port Elizabeth, you cannot pass the opportunity to visit the city’s multipurpose, multi-tiered Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, an impressive legacy of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

The city is an outdoor-lover’s paradise so do not miss out on boat cruises; diving opportunities; or a trip to the lush forests of the Kragga Kamma Game Park, where bu alo, cheetah, gira e, zebra, nyala, bontebok, lechwe and other animals roam freely. Also worth a visit is a 52m tower with 204 steps leading to the top, known as the Campanile Memorial, a monument that stands sentinel over the Gqeberha harbour. It was built in 1923 to commemorate the arrival of 1820 British settlers. Another memento of Settler in uence is No 7 Castle Hill, built in 1830.This is one of the oldest surviving Settler cottages in the city and encapsulates domestic life of 19th-century middle class, complete with cobbled courtyard and an operational well.

Touchdown in Perth

Celebrating SAA’s inaugural flight between Johannesburg and Perth.

29 April marked a significant milestone for SAA – the relaunch of its service between Johannesburg and Perth, Australia. The inaugural flight of the A340-300 aircraft symbolised more than just a journey; it represented a rekindling of ties between two vibrant cities.

With 253 seats, including 38 luxurious business class and 215 comfortable economy class seats, the A340-300 promises passengers a seamless travel experience. Renowned for its spaciousness and reliability, this aircraft is the perfect vessel for traversing the vast distances between continents.

The decision to reopen the Perth route underscores SAA’s commitment to strategic growth and expansion. Just six months after successfully launching the São Paulo route in Brazil, this latest venture reaffirms the airline’s position as a key player in the global aviation industry. Moreover, Perth holds a special place in the hearts of many South Africans, serving as a hub for familial and business connections that span generations.

The festivities surrounding the inaugural flight were nothing short of spectacular. From the moment passengers stepped foot onto the aircraft in Johannesburg to their

arrival at Perth Airport, the air buzzed with excitement as dignitaries, travellers, and media representatives gathered to celebrate.

And the celebrations didn’t end there. In partnership with South African Tourism, a series of events was held in Perth, Sydney and Auckland, New Zealand to welcome SAA back to the region with open arms. These events not only showcased the rich cultural heritage of South Africa but also highlighted the potential for strengthened tourism and trade ties between the two continents. With over 210 key trade and media contacts in attendance, the response was overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the widespread enthusiasm for SAA’s return.

As the wheels of the A340-300 touched down on Perth soil, a new chapter began in the story of South African Airways. With each flight, we pave the way for greater connectivity, understanding, and collaboration between nations. Whether it’s reuniting loved ones, facilitating business ventures, or simply exploring new horizons, SAA stands as a testament to the power of aviation to bring the world closer together.

CONGRATS ON 90 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

SAA ﬂies between Perth and Johannesburg seven days a week. Visit ﬂysaa.com

AUSTRALIA

s the red- pped sky be ns opening, so too do one's eyes.

At rst, there are the colours of sunrise to take in: vibrant shades of pink, orange, red and lavender, swirling together and seeming to glow.They grow brighter, transforming into a brilliant blue, the colour of sapphires.

Next comes the landscape: a swirling palette of gold, red, orange, yellow, brown and green, stretching as far as the eyes can see, like a gigantic carpet whose pattern never repeats. Mostly at, there are little, prickly bushes, looking like anemones on the sea oor. In the distance loom dark shapes that, looking closer, are huge, craggy rocks.

Finally, attention returns to the vantage point from which one can see such stunning scenery - gazing out a large window aboard a train.

About the size of the continental United States, Australia is a vast country and it’s not all red, dusty Outback and white sand beaches (though there’s plenty of both). To take in some of the diverse landscapes, and possibly spot onlyin-Australia wildlife like iconic hopping kangaroos, one of the best ways is by rail.

You can take trains all across Australia. There are many options but perhaps no train journey is as epic as the Indian Paci c.

Beginning in Perth near the shores of the Indian Ocean and ending at the Paci c Ocean in Sydney, hence the name, the Indian Paci c crosses 4 352 kilometres of wideopen countryside, wilderness, cityscapes, and of course the legendary, enormous Outback. Taking you back to a time when trains were how many people travelled across

Australia, the journey usually takes 4-5 days.

Operated year-round by Journey Beyond, there is thankfully no worry about bringing enough food and drinks because tickets are all-inclusive. This also includes not having to worry about where to sleep.

Gold and Platinum class cabins are available in full (suitable for two people) or twin (ideal for one person) bed con gurations. By day, the cabins are a space to sit and relax, and watch the scenery go by. When the sun goes down, enjoy the soft beds for a restful (and surprisingly quiet) night’s sleep. Or stay up and watch the stars – sometimes there can be so many it looks like someone’s spilt sparkling glitter across the dark sky.

Gold single passengers, ideal if travelling solo, share bathrooms at the end of a train carriage. Gold twin passengers, the most popular cabin class, have private ensuites. Platinum cabins have private ensuites, too. But Platinum cabins are also almost twice the size of a Gold twin cabin, with complimentary Australian-made toiletries.

No matter which class you travel, the views are aweinspiring. From huge windows, you can see sprawling red Outback landscapes, lush green forests, blue ribbons of river, and wildlife. And, yes, you might see kangaroos hopping about.

You don’t just have to see the scenery and its changing colours go by either; you can experience o -train excursions usually included in a ticket.

One of the most interesting experiences comes on one of

Clockwise from top left: the Indian Pacific makes several stops on its journey from Perth to Sydney; an evening meal during a stop in Cook; meals are included in a ticket; each cabin has large windows to watch the scenery; a walk through the wineries of the Barossa Valley; cabins are available with twin or full beds.

the first days travelling from Perth. The Indian Pacific pulls in just as sunrise unfolds across Kalgoorlie, Australia’s largest outback town. Hopping aboard a coach (there are short walks, too), it’s a chance to delve into the mining town’s rich history, including visiting the Super Pit gold mine. When gold was discovered there in 1893, it kicked off one of Australia’s largest gold rushes.

Another experience comes while traversing the vast, arid Nullarbor Plain—the kind of huge, almost treeless area many people picture when they think of Australia. The almost ghost town of Cook has a population that can be counted on one hand. After exploring its streets comes a roaring latenight bonfire and stargazing; again, the number of stars you can see on a journey, which is smooth throughout, almost defies description.

Some experiences are more focused on some of your other senses.The rolling hills of the world-renowned Barossa Valley wine region near Adelaide in South Australia offers a chance to walk among rows of green vines and sip awardwinning white and red wines right where they’re produced.

The experience includes dining in the vintage cellar of Seppeltsfield Winery. Curated by Executive Chef Owen Andrews, it highlights regional produce and ingredients. Platinum guests can even sip 100-year-old Tawny port, made from red grapes and aged for all those years in wooden barrels.

Not that the food and drink on board the train is any less spectacular. Breakfast might include grilled eye bacon and country-style beef chipolata. You could opt for scrambled

eggs on smoked trout, served on toasted rye sourdough with grilled tomato and spinach. Or you could even go with a curry made from camel with Afghani rice pilaf, minted yoghurt, and pappadum.

Lunches and dinners are typically multi-course affairs. An entrée can be carrot and coriander soup, or duck and green peppercorn paté. This can be followed by a main course of slow-cooked beef or roasted pork tenderloin with native herbs, or for a vegetarian option roasted heirloom baby carrots with Yorke Peninsula lentils. Lastly, desserts might be fresh strawberries and cream, ginger and pear pudding, or a selection of local cheeses like Section 28 Mont Rouge.

Not only are there many choices for what to eat, but also where to eat. The Queen Adelaide Restaurant is the main dining carriage for passengers. Its Art Deco décor recalls a glamorous, bygone era of train travel.

The Outback Explorer Lounge is also glamorous, with large, plush couches. Known as the train’s social hub, here you can sample beers, Australian wines, soft drinks, spirits and coffee and tea, read a book from the onboard library, play a board game, or simply enjoy the views from breakfast to late evening. Platinum passengers can also enjoy the Platinum Club, with quartzite tabletops, wood flooring, brass fittings, and leather seats in light colours.

With so much to see and do, a journey can be as actionpacked or peaceful as desired. But pulling into the station and coming to a final stop in Sydney, it can be surprising how quickly days go by—so quickly there’s a temptation to stay on board and ride in the other direction back to Perth.

The essentials

COMING ABOARD

Tickets for the Indian Pacific can be booked at journeybeyondrail.com.au.You can check-in for the train at the station 2 hours prior to departure. Check-in closes 1 hour before departure. The train usually departs from Perth at 10am on Sundays. From January 2025, it’s supposed to depart at 4:30pm on Saturdays.

LUGGAGE

Gold passengers are allowed up to 60 kg of luggage. Platinum passengers are allowed up to 90 kg.

WEATHER

Australia’s summers are famously hot. But winters can be surprisingly cold. However, the temperature on the train stays a consistent 22 °C. Because this can feel cold compared with the outside in summer, you may want to bring a light jacket, jumper or cardigan.

WI-FI AND POWER

There’s some Wi-Fi in the Outback Explorer Lounge and Platinum Club, but it can be limited. There are threepronged power outlets throughout the train, including in cabins.

MONEY

Indian Pacific tickets are all-inclusive. But if you want to buy souvenirs, the train is cashless - all you need is your credit card.

saasawubona.com

GETTING THERE

SAA flies between Lusaka, Zambia and Johannesburg seven days a week. Visit flysaa.com

In a world first, conservationists in Zambia’s Bangweulu Wetlands are using life-like puppets to hand-rear shoebill chicks for reintroduction into the wild, while community members monitor nests to safeguard shoebill populations and help protect one of Africa’s most important wetland ecosystems. IGA MOTYLSKA spoke to three women spearheading non-profit African Parks’ Shoebill Management Plan.

WHERE WATER MEETS SKY

Left: in Zambia, the local name for shoebill (mapumambao) means ‘the one who drums on wood’. This page: the water mirrors the sky in the Bangweulu Wetlands of north-eastern Zambia.

A hunched-over, head-down figure enters the enclosure.

Cloaked in a black ghillie suit, with knee-length, black wellingtons, the gure moves at a deliberate pace, with a slight sway mimicking the characteristic gait of a shoebill. The left hand, concealed in a grey sock, occasionally sweeps the air resembling the bird’s wing movement. Meanwhile, the right arm is encased within a life-like shoebill puppet. It resembles creatures that may feature on children’s TV shows.

A soundtrack of a shoebill “bill clapping” plays in the background. The series of rapid clicks followed by brief pauses sound like wooden blocks being struck together. With measured movements, the gure steadily moves towards a shoebill chick, which responds immediately by extending its neck and excitedly hiccupping – the way in which it asks for sh.

“Our three puppets are critically important tools, especially during the rst three months of a chick’s life in the captive rearing facility,” says Maggie Hirschauer, an animal behaviourist and Bangweulu Wetland’s Shoebill Programme Manager – a project run by conservation non-pro t African Parks. “We want them to think we’re a shoebill to prevent the association of food with the human form,” she explains of their e orts to avoid human interaction and imprinting.

Alongside her team, Maggie is helping to protect the species across Zambia’s Bangweulu Wetlands through the world’s only shoebill captive rearing and rehabilitation facility. With fewer than 5 300 mature wild shoebills across the wetlands of central-eastern Africa, from South Sudan to Zambia, the species holds Vulnerable status according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Though shoebills are protected under Zambian law with a possible prison sentence of up to seven years, the birds still fall victim to the illegal wildlife trade, hunting, humanwildlife con ict and habitat loss due to seasonal man-made res and population growth.

“Bill Diamond [the Emmy Award-winning puppeteer, who’s perhaps best known for his work on The Muppets] was excited to work on a project that uses real-world applications of puppets beyond entertainment and education,” Maggie reveals.

The water mirrors the sky in the Bangweulu Wetlands of north-eastern Zambia. It’s no wonder then that in the iciBemba language, Bangweulu translates to “place where the water meets the sky”. This deep swamp of oating grass and papyrus that’s surrounded by grasslands and miombo

CONGRATS

ON 90 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

woodlands creates a wetland ecosystem of some 13 100km2 to give it ‘Wetlands of International Importance’ status under the RAMSAR Convention.

It is home to more than 400 bird species, among them great white pelicans, saddle-billed storks, African spoonbills and Vulnerable wattled cranes, including a small but important population of shoebills – earning it the title ‘Important Bird Area’ from BirdLife International.

“Historically, people have visited Bangweulu to see wild shoebills. Despite being very shy and secretive birds, last year some guests saw up to ve a day,” says Clemmie Borgstein, a conservationist specialising in landscape-level approaches to preservation and the inclusion of communities into protected area management.

As one of the country’s largest natural sheries, the wetlands are vital for food security for close to 60 000 people who live within the designated 6 645km2 Game Management Area (GMA) – a mixed-use bu er zone bordering Lavushi Manda National Park. The continued existence of shoebills is increasingly dependent on the community’s buy-in to protect them and their ecosystem.

Due to dwindling wildlife numbers, since 2008, the Bangweulu GMA has been co-managed by Zambia’s Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW), six chiefdoms represented by Community Resource Boards (CRBs) and African Parks.The latter established the Shoebill Nest Protection Programme in 2012 and the shoebill captive rearing and rehabilitation facility a decade later.

“Building trust, communication and [advising on] decision making with all of these stakeholders is a huge challenge. But if it's done right, it can be the future of conservation in Africa and places where communities are part of the landscape,” she emphasises.

Clemmie explains how this partnership protects the ecosystem while managing natural resources for long-term sustainability. The communities spend nine months on small islands across the wetland during shing season and return to their villages to farm cassava and maize during the national, government-mandated sh ban (December to February) to allow sh to spawn.

Despite being attentive parents, shoebills historically raise one chick to maturity. To avoid obligate siblicide, which naturally occurs when the stronger, older chick kills or outcompetes its weaker, younger sibling for resources,

The shoebill captive rearing and rehabilitation facility includes incubators and brooders to care for chicks throughout their development. The collected eggs are incubated and turned by hand three times daily, until they hatch after about 45 days. The project’s two nest cameras have provided insights into parent-chick interactions and shoebill behaviour, including the watering of eggs to cool them in hot conditions. The Bangweulu Wetlands is the southernmost range for shoebills in Africa.

the team either removes the first egg from each nest for incubation, or rescues one of the two chicks as soon as possible after hatching.

Eggs are incubated and the chicks are hand-reared in the captive rearing facility with the help of the surrogate puppet. Once they have grown sufficient feathers to thermoregulate, they spend time in the outdoor boma on their own 1.75-metre nest constructed of papyrus stems and reeds topped with softer, smaller grasses and plant fibres, overseen by a life-size, printed cut-out of a shoebill. Here, the fledglings learn to fly and catch live catfish from troughlike ponds in each of their individual enclosures.

“Each year, we’re learning more about these birds’ behaviours and needs, so that I can teach them how to be a shoebill. We have to set up these birds for success so they can live as wild shoebills,” says Maggie.

Fledglings between seven and nine months old are fitted with GPS-tracking units to increase species knowledge before being released, whenever possible, during the fish ban when they’re less likely to encounter humans.

“For me, success is when a released bird is afraid of humans. I want it to fly away,” she notes emphatically.

The Shoebill Nest Protection Programme recruits up to 30 male community members to monitor any of the 15 active nest sites within the core breeding regions unevenly distributed across the wetlands. These nest guards remain in the nest area 24/7 during peak nesting season, between June

and November, to protect the nests, eggs, chicks and adult birds. They send weekly updates and alert African Parks about any dangers and disturbances.

Astridah Ndafi, Bangweulu Wetlands’ Shoebill Programme Supervisor and a Kopa community member, is on the other end of this communication. It takes her a day and a half to travel by car, motorised boat and a wooden mokoro from the captive rearing facility to the northern island chiefdoms for regular monitoring, where she sloshes through mud to check on these nests and collect data.

She spends three months on the road during the fish ban visiting the six chiefdoms within the wetlands to conduct environmental education school programmes, community sensitisation and to mediate any disputes.

“My role is to facilitate effective communication between the programme and the two nest technicians, nest guards, and thousands of community members to ensure they understand the long-term benefit of conserving shoebills and their habitat,” explains Astridah.

“Working with these communities is not always easy. One has to be strong as not everyone understands our work at first. Many people didn’t see the benefit of conserving shoebills but with time, I’m seeing how people are changing their minds once I interact with them again,” she concludes.

In 2023, breeding success at guarded nests soared from 31% to 77%, resulting in 10 wild chicks reaching maturity, alongside the release of 10 captive-reared fledglings since 2022.

The essentials

IN THE WILD

Shoebill (and black lechwe) sightings are most common between May and July.

VISIT

Hands-off tours don’t allow birds sight of humans.Visitors can join the staff for an educational, no-access session at the captive rearing facility (US$50). This can be combined with a silent, guided tour of a boma enclosure with a glimpse of the birds through a small, one-way window (US$200).

DONATE

Adopt a chick (US$2 000/year); Shoebill Nest Guard Support (US$300/season): www.africanparks.org/donate.

STAY

Shoebill Island Camp – a recently renovated tented camp managed by African Parks, open May through November: www.africanparks.org/bangweulu/visit-us/shoebill-island.

HOW TO GET THERE

Take a short charter flight from the Luangwa Valley. Otherwise, from Lusaka it’s a 12-hour drive along the Great North Road to Lavushi Manda National Park. From there it’s a 2-hour drive to the Bangweulu Wetlands, followed by a 45-minute canoe ride to Shoebill Island Camp.

PRECAUTIONS

Malaria.

saasawubona.com

The Community Schemes Ombud Service, CSOS, is calling on all managers of body corporates, home-owners associations, retirement villages, estates and sectional titles in general, who are yet to register their community schemes with CSOS to do so immediately.

Comply with the law and register your community scheme with CSOS now. Avoid being penalised. To register, visit our website: www.csos.org.za, or call us on our toll-free number: 0800-000-653.

The future of

AFRICAN travel

We take a look at emerging trends and strategies driving the evolution of African tourism, and cutting-edge technology that is revolutionising the way travellers engage with African destinations.

ne of the many benefits

of attending the annual Africa Travel Indaba in Durban is that you get to see the wide range of options beyond safaris for tourism in South Africa and the rest of Africa. The event hosts more than 20 African countries and over 1 000 curated tourism products, including unique tourism experiences indigenous to the continent.

“I have always wanted to learn more about South African products and everything is here. What caught my eye is the diversity of products and services that are offered. When people in the [United] States think of South Africa, they think safari,” said American-hosted buyer, Donny Woodard.

•• VR TO SHOWCASE DESTINATIONS

More and more companies are using cutting-edge virtual reality (VR) technologies to showcase their products. I was particularly impressed by the South African National Parks’ escape room, which featured 360-degree live views from several South African national parks through VR glasses. This immersive experience provided a deeper appreciation of the bush, far beyond what photographs could convey. I found myself ducking away from a virtual elephant’s trunk and observing lions, zebras, and other big animals at a remarkably close range – closer than one could typically get even in the parks themselves. The experience was so vivid that I needed a glass of cold chenin to consummate my virtual sunset.

There were other exciting VR experiences, such as a racing car simulation by Cullinan Holdings, and a virtual scuba diving experience by iSimangaliso Wetland Park allowing visitors to get up close with some of the world’s most unique marine life. While these VR encounters can’t replace the thrill of reallife adventures, they provide a vivid preview as a tease.

•• VISA-FREE TRAVEL

There has been a surge in travel between Kenya and South Africa since the introduction of visa-free travel. Tourists from Kenya to South Africa have nearly doubled, with a 99% increase in arrivals since it was announced that Kenyans don’t need a visa to visit South Africa. A similar initiative is underway with Ghana, as plans for visa-free travel between South Africa and Ghana are being finalised.

This is expected to boost the number of travellers, thereby stimulating economic activity.

>>GOODTOKNOW:

SAA flies between Accra, Ghana and Joburg three times a week, and it also flies to three Kenyan destinations with its codeshare partner.

•• CONTENT REMAINS KING

Social media has presented opportunities to leverage the power of influence and media however small to build and sustain a brand. As a destination, South Africa has plenty to offer on the content front and some young people are leveraging travel content to create business opportunities. During a talk, “The Future of Travel Through the Eyes of Youth”, Michael and Acacia Monk shared their experiences of travelling to South Africa in their van and documenting their adventures on their social media platform, Yeti.The. Van. The young couple started travelling in 2021 and have since built a brand and business from their social media following. They shared their story alongside Kachie Nzama who grew her following by solo travelling across the African continent using public transport, and eventually became a host on SABC’s travel show Come Again.

•• GROWTH POTENTIAL

The South African tourism sector is a significant contributor to the national economy, with huge growth potential as is underscored by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) report, which suggests that travel and tourism could inject $168 billion into Africa’s economy and create 16 million jobs. In 2022, visitor and tourist spending in South Africa amounted to R71.1 billion, still a notable recovery though short of the R121.5 billion recorded in 2019. Similarly, the number of non-resident visitors reached 7.3 billion in 2022, showing a steady recovery to nearly half of the 14.8 billion visitors in 2019, marking a positive trend towards pre-pandemic levels.

••

FILM AND MUSIC

Film and music play a highly influential role in promoting countries as a desirable tourist destination. During a talk, South African Tourism’s Chief Marketing Officer,

Thembisile Sehloho, noted that while the global spotlight on South African music presents a significant opportunity, more effort is needed to fully harness its potential. “America used film and music to position their country as the best place to be. We can learn from that,” Sehloho said. Consider how the announcement that Thailand will be the setting of the next season of the series White Lotus has greatly boosted that country’s tourism industry.

South Africa’s love for dance and music continues to dazzle the world through TikTok, with one hit song and dance challenge after another. Our warmth and hospitality inspire many travellers to return, much like our sunshine and beaches do. I saw the Amapiano magic at work, first-hand, when two American YouTubers couldn’t stop raving about Amapiano musician Dladla Mshunqisi who had performed at Travel Indaba. On the shuttle back to my hotel, one of my fellow delegates announced that Burna Boy had just joined TitoM, Yuppe & S.N.E to remix the song behind TikTok’s latest dance craze ‘Tshwala Bam’. One thing is for sure, people will continue gathering in groups all over the world and learning to dance to our music like we do.

•• DEALS ARE ALWAYS POPULAR

South Africa’s Sho’t Left Travel Week coming up in September is said to be “the Black Friday of travel deals”. It promotes domestic travel by offering up to 50% off on deals. “Last year we had over 900 service providers registered to provide travel deals, which grew from 639 the year before, and we are hoping to grow even bigger this year,” says Mashigo Mokgethi, Head of Domestic Tourism at South African Tourism. Although travel deals can be purchased between 2 - 8 September 2024, one can certainly travel outside of these dates. It’s a good time to put money into planning your next holiday.

An impressive feature of Africa’s Travel Indaba was the event’s mobile application for delegates. The app features a chatbot, programme, floor plan navigation and lists of speakers, a news feed, attendees, sponsors and exhibitors with direct messaging options. It facilitates meetings by matching two people with a confirmed timeslot and venue at the click of a button. Ahead of the event, it populates a calendar for you with the delegates’ contact details. I booked meetings ahead of the Indaba and successfully attended most of them. The digital integration and floor plan were conducive to engaging with people who are passionate about African tourism, and they revealed something about the future of digital integration in promoting the tourism industry on the continent.

SA wins at Chelsea FlowerShow

South Africa stole the show at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show when it not only won a gold medal with perfect scores from the judges, but was awarded “Best Exhibit in the Pavilion” as well as the “Best New Design” awards. Described as one of the most outstanding exhibits in history within the Great Pavilion, this year’s design was inspired by the windswept slopes of the Cape mountains.

Head designer Leon Kluge and artist Tristan Woudberg led a group of volunteers to create the display that included large clay sculptures which formed the backdrop for the display of

fynbos. A multitude of species was presented in the display, from the high-altitude fynbos to the strandveld brimming with bulbs that hug the coastlines. The display celebrates the beauty and significance of one of the most biodiverse regions in the world.

After a four-year hiatus and the sponsor of three decades (1989 – 2019) withdrawing their support, Cape Flora SA, a team of volunteers, and numerous contributions from the private sector ensured South Africa’s flora was once again represented at the world’s premier flower show.

IMAGES: Sven Musica

GAUTENG TOURISM WELCOMES JOBURG’S TOP LISTING IN TIME OUT’S LIST OF FOOD CITIES IN THE WORLD

The ranking of Johannesburg as the number 2 in the world’s top 12 cities in which to eat out is another global accolade that assists destination Gauteng to better position a world-class culinary experience that is remembered long after tourists have returned home. This accolade comes after many – the creative melting pot of Maboneng was ranked by US business magazine Forbes as one of 12 coolest neighbourhoods in the world in 2018. This was followed by Melville’s 7th Street in 2021 labelled by Time Out magazine as one of the most diverse neighbourhoods in the world, landing on number 12 in the globe’s coolest top 30 streets, an improvement from number 33 the previous year. Whilst in 2022 the Tourism Sentiment Index named the Capital City, Pretoria, as of the top 100 destinations in the world. The city ranked at 73.

Gastronomy travel experiences have been on the rise in the sector and the growth has been attributed to an improvement in authentic, curated experiences for travellers who are part of this niche, seeking cultural experiences through food. In the lively streets of Gauteng, a unique food culture is thriving. From the bustling district of Braamfontein to the vibrant township of Soweto, top ‘Kota’ joints in Gauteng are where locals flock for a taste of something truly special. These humble establishments are known for their mouthwatering Kotas – a popular street food that fuses diverse flavours and textures. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft loaf of bread, filled to the brim with juicy meats, melting cheese, and a range of delectable toppings. Every bite is an explosion of savoury goodness that leaves you craving more. With their finger on the pulse of Gauteng’s culinary scene, these Kota joints o er a true taste of the region’s diverse culinary landscape. From classic flavours to innovative twists, there’s a Kota to suit every palate.

These humble establishments are not only a testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage but also a platform for innovation and creativity. With the rise of social media and the increasing interest in food tourism, Kota establishments have reached a wider audience and showcase the unique ﬂavours of Gauteng. Whether it’s through collaborations with local chefs or the introduction of new and exciting Kota variations, the future of these joints is sure to be ﬁlled with delicious surprises.

These humble establishments have become an integral part of the region’s food culture, attracting food enthusiasts from all walks of life. “Cuisine is at the heart of the South African tourism o ering, and many events have ensured that food becomes part of an integral experience,” says Gauteng Tourism CEO Sthembiso Dlamini.

“As a result, the Gauteng Tourism Authority, together with other key partners in the food and beverage sector have collaborated with the Delicious Festival Trader Academy to empower informal traders in the sector by providing them with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in formal and competitive settings. The food and beverage aspects are crucial components of the tourism experience,” she adds. The next time you ﬁnd yourself in Gauteng, be sure to seek out these beloved local establishments and embark on a mouth-watering journey that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re indulging in a classic Kota or trying out one of the unique variations, each bite is a tantalizing explosion of ﬂavours and textures. Get ready for a mouth-watering adventure that will leave you hungry for more!

For more information follow us on social media:

Gauteng Tourism’s collaborative e orts with some events has been to use the platform to provide market access for food experience curators especially from townships, which is why the Kota is a must-eat dish according to Time Out’s ranking. As the golden province’s food scene continues to evolve, the future of Kota joints looks bright.

GETTING THERE

SAA flies between Cape Town and Johannesburg seven days a week. Visit flysaa.com

AFUSION

This Women’s Month, we celebrate South African artist Dr Esther Mahlangu whose art retrospective is currently on show at the Iziko South African National Gallery in Cape Town.

Entitled Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting: Esther Mahlangu, A Retrospective, highlights Dr Esther Nostokana Nagiyana

Nikwambi Mahlangu’s more than 50-year long career and her meteoric rise as a contemporary artist, which earned her global acclaim.

Curated by Nontobeko Ntombela, the exhibition charts Mahlangu’s contribution to contemporary art throughout her career. More than 100 artworks have been loaned from international collections, carefully curated alongside historic photographs and a short film. Also included in the exhibition is Mahlangu’s BMW 525i Art Car that makes its historic return to South Africa for the first time in more than 30 years.

She is known for her innovative work that pushes boundaries beyond the traditional mural. Widely recognised as one of the most influential artists across generations, Mahlangu began her artistic journey at the age of 10, under the guidance of her grandmother and mother, learning the traditional techniques of isiNdebele mural painting.

Recounting how her artistic journey began, Mahlangu often tells the story of being trained by her grandmother and mother in the early 1940s: “I would continue to paint on the house when they left for a break. When they came back, they would say: ‘What have you done, child? Never do that again!’. After that, I started drawing on the back of the house, and slowly my drawings got better and better until they finally asked me to come back to the front of the house. That’s when I knew I was good at painting.”

The retrospective exhibition draws inspiration from Mahlangu’s remarkable story of how she discovered her extraordinary artistic talent as a young girl. It is in this selfassertive stance that the retrospective exhibition is framed –conveyed through her own voice and self-positioning.

“Painting has always been a part of me. I cannot separate it from myself, and neither would I want to. I look forward to sharing my practice and long and colourful story with you on my retrospective exhibition,” she shared.

Transcending the boundaries of canvas and mural, Mahlangu’s work displays an inimitable fluency across diverse mediums from small, treasured keepsakes to vast public installations and murals. With its main point of departure in traditional Ndebele practices of wall paintings and beadwork, her artistry finds expression in the most unlikely places, extending to novel surfaces such as sculptures, ceramics and everyday objet trouvés. Her unparalleled mastery in transforming space and form invites contemplation on complex themes, ranging from the nexus of art and society to the resonances of historical warfare and land reclamation.

The Retrospective in Cape Town (Iziko Museum) ends on 11 August 2024. From there it will begin the global tour, stopping first at Wits Art Museum in Johannesburg, (November 2024 - April 2025), before moving to the United States in early 2026.

First page: Ndebele Abstract, 2023. Acrylic on canvas, 120 cm diametre; in front of her home. Image: Clint Strydom. This page, from left: Suid Afrika Vorentoe (South Africa Ahead), 2003. Acrylic on ballroom shoes, 34 x 38 x 20 cm (perspex dome). Ndebele Abstract, 2020. Acrylic on canvas,100 x 100 cm. Vessel, 2021. Acrylic on GRP, 20 x 40 cm.

Overlooking the iconic Nelson Mandela Square fountain, brothers Dennis and Allen have brought their vision of an unforgettable dining experience to life with the contemporary Trumps Grillhouse & Butchery.

Diners can enjoy superior quality meat dishes at Trumps Grillhouse, as well as select their perfect cut of meat to take home from the all-new, bespoke Trumps Butchery.

Trumps welcomes locals, tourists, businessmen and women, Sandton Convention Centre delegates, hotel guests, airline pilots and cabin crew alike to join us for a ﬁne food and wine experience like no other!

DOWNLOAD THE NEW SAA APP

SAA is thrilled to unveil the latest digital enhancements, designed to transform your travel booking experience into one that is seamless, efﬁcient, and personalised. With the introduction of the new booking ﬂow and our innovative mobile app, we are setting new standards in travel convenience.

A seamless booking experience

The new booking flow is a major upgrade that simplifies the process of booking flights, making it more intuitive and user-friendly. The revamped system significantly reduces the steps required to complete a reservation, allowing passengers to secure their flights quickly and efficiently. As you navigate through the booking process, you will find additional services such as extra baggage, seat selection, and in-flight meals clearly presented. These options enable you to customize your journey according to your preferences, ensuring a more tailored travel experience.

E ortless upgrades

manage every aspect of your travel easily. Key features of the app include:

• Book ﬂights: easily search and book your ﬂights, whether one-way or round-trip.

• Manage booking: view or modify your upcoming ﬂights effortlessly.

• Digital boarding passes: enjoy a seamless journey with the convenience of digital boarding passes.

• Check-in: seamlessly check-in for your ﬂights directly from the app.

• Instant notiﬁcations: stay informed with real-time ﬂight updates.

• Siri Integration: add upcoming trips to Siri for quick access to your itinerary.

• Smartwatch sync: synchronise your trips with your smartwatch for added convenience.

One of the standout features of the new platform is the seamless access to upgrades. RefX makes it easy to upgrade to business class. From ﬂight selection to payment, every step of the process has been optimized for a smooth and hassle-free experience. The user-friendly interface guides your booking journey, ensuring a positive and efﬁcient transaction.

Secure transactions

Security is at the forefront of our new system. Our enhanced payment system guarantees secure transactions while ensuring your peace of mind.

Your ultimate travel companion: the SAA mobile app

Our new mobile app complements the new booking ﬂow and serves as the ultimate travel companion. This app brings convenience to your ﬁngertips, allowing you to

CONNECTING AFRICA TO THE WORLD...

A LEGACY OF AFRICAN SOLIDARITY

This July, Accra will be buzzing as it hosts the biggest Pan-African civil society gathering celebrating 20 years of the Economic, Social and Cultural Council of the African Union.

s the African Union’s Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, we look back at the journey.

The Constitutive Act of the African Union was adopted in Lomé (Togo) in 2000, calling for the establishment of ECOSOCC to connect the African Union to its people. ECOSOCC was eventually established on 4 July 2004 in Addis-Ababa, Ethiopia. ECOSOCC’s establishment is a culmination of several decisions to actively engage civil society in the processes and work of both the Organization of African Unity (OAU) and its successor, the African Union (AU), particularly with regard to Africa’s integration and development.

••

THE PIONEERING DAYS

ECOSOCC’s interim General Assembly was launched in AddisAbaba in 2005 with Nobel Laureate late Professor Wangari Maathai being elected as the interim Presiding Officer of ECOSOCC. Its main task was to organise a continent-wide election to establish the first Permanent General Assembly. ECOSOCC’s first Permanent General Assembly was held in Dar es Salaam in 2008, under President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete. This event was a transformative moment, signaling a shift toward a people-oriented, peoplecentered, and people-driven community within the Union.

•• MILESTONES

From the historic adoption of the AU Constitutive Act in Lomé to the recent adoption of strategic plans and frame-

works, each step has been a leap toward greater inclusivity and participation. The launch of ECOSOCC symbolised a collective commitment to fostering a partnership between governments and all segments of civil society. ECOSOCC as an AU technical advisory organ has contributed significant milestones in support of AU-citizen interface in the implementation of Agenda 2063. In line with this, ECOSOCC has deepened its impact and role within the AU ecosystem and across the African continent.

•• BRIDGING CIVIL SOCIETY AND GOVERNANCE

ECOSOCC has been serving as a vibrant platform where voices from all walks of life converge to shape policies that affect their lives and communities. Over the years, these voices have ensured that the fabric of African unity is woven with diverse and rich threads of its people’s aspirations and dreams. Lately, the works of ECOSOCC through its active engagement in the African Governance Architecture (AGA) and the African Peace & Security Architecture (APSA) are also noteworthy. ECOSOCC has not only enhanced CSOs participation at member states’ level, but it has also been at the forefront in championing multi-stakeholder consultations on strategic areas engaging women, children, the youth, the elderly and people with disability on the continent, thus allowing the wider African civil society to voice on the processes and activities of the AU.

•• ECOSOCC MATTERS TODAY

ECOSOCC’s role is more crucial than ever in a world where the challenges of

governance, economic integration, and social justice are immense. By facilitating direct engagement between the AU and its peoples, ECOSOCC ensures that African integration and development are driven by those it affects the most – its citizens.

This inclusive model has led to tangible policies that reflect the diverse needs and aspirations of African societies. Whether it’s influencing agricultural policies that impact small-scale farmers or shaping health strategies to combat pandemics, ECOSOCC’s fingerprints are evident across the continent’s policy landscape.

•• THE ROAD AHEAD

The 20th commemoration holds significance in recalling the vision of the African Union, which aims for “an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena”. It is a timely occasion to reinstate the African Citizenry at the centre of the continental development agenda with the imminent rollout of the Second TenYear Implementation Plan of Agenda 2063. Year 2024 also marks an era of unprecedented progress with the roll-out of the ECOSOCC National Chapters in AU Member States, thus disseminating information and mobilising support for AU programs and activities.

As we stand on the shoulders of giants who have paved the way, let us continue to strive for an Africa that is truly of the people, by the people, and for the people.

WOMAN AT THE TOP

We get to know Nombulelo Guliwe, Chief Executive O cer at South African Tourism.

NOMBULELO GULIWE

Chief Executive O cer, South African Tourism

What were some of the most signiﬁcant challenges you faced in your career?

Throughout my career, I have encountered several challenges that have helped shape my professional journey. One was navigating the tourism industry during the COVID-19 pandemic. The abrupt halt in global travel severely impacted our operations and the livelihoods of many who depend on tourism. To overcome this, I implemented rigorous cost-management strategies to ensure the sustainability of our operations. Additionally, I focused on nancial planning and risk management, developing scenarios and contingency plans to prepare for various recovery trajectories. By maintaining transparent communication with stakeholders and fostering a culture of nancial prudence, we were able to navigate the downturn and position ourselves for a robust recovery as travel restrictions eased. I have been fortunate to work under the leadership of numerous seasoned board members who provided strategic support and guidance during turbulent times, working towards a common goal of growing the tourism sector and which led to a number of signi cant achievements for South African Tourism.

What shapes your leadership style?

My personal values of integrity, inclusivity and resilience in uence my leadership style. Growing up in the diverse and vibrant town of Phiri in Soweto, I learned the importance of embracing di erent challenges as crucial learnings. These experiences have instilled in me a deep

appreciation for fostering and building motivated teams, which I strive to re ect in our tourism initiatives. I believe in leading with honesty and integrity and ensuring that every voice is heard, which helps in creating a collaborative and motivated team environment.

Furthermore, my experiences of overcoming professional and personal challenges have reinforced the value of resilience. I lead by example, demonstrating that setbacks are opportunities for growth and innovation. By maintaining a positive outlook and encouraging a solutionoriented mindset, I aim to inspire my team to navigate obstacles with con dence and creativity. Ultimately, my leadership style is about empowering others, championing sustainable and inclusive growth, and ensuring that South African Tourism remains a beacon of excellence on the global stage.

CONGRATS ON 90 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

What trends do you see shaping the future of the aviation industry?

Air connectivity serves as a lifeline for the tourism industry. The opportunities that 2024 brings set a path of sustainable growth and success for both the aviation and tourism industries to achieve. The latest o cial release of international arrival gures by Statistics South Africa for the period January to March 2024, points to a robust and growing South African tourism sector. International tourist arrivals during this time totalled 2.4 million, representing a remarkable 15.4% increase when compared with the same period in 2023. After nearly four years of navigating unprecedented challenges and turmoil brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, our industry is ready to embark on a new chapter of growth and revitalisation. To capitalise on this growth and demand in Air Travel, South African Tourism, through targeted marketing campaigns, will promote South Africa’s unique attractions and diverse o erings to global travellers, positioning our country as a top travel destination. By these concerted e orts, South African Tourism aims to transform the increased demand for air travel into signi cant economic growth and industry revitalisation.

VIDEO SELECTION

SAA offers in-flight entertainment on all domestic and regional flights on overhead screens. The A340 and A330 aircraft are equipped with personal TV screens and offer an audio-video-on-demand entertainment selection. Please refer to the content on your personal screen for the latest updated entertainment choices.

AIRSCAPE

Your entertainment above the clouds! Entertaining you and your family with a wide selection of movies, TV programmes, games, and music, streamed directly to your own mobile device or tablet. USB and PC powerports are available below your seat to keep your devices charged. Now available on select A320 aircraft. Simply scan the QR code below to enjoy entertainment above the clouds.

MOVIES

DUNE: PART TWO • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Paul Atreides unites with Chani and the Fremen while seeking revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family.

CRAIG BEFORE THE CREEK

• English; Portuguese; Spanish

Craig Williams is the shy new kid in town. He’ll soon set o on the biggest adventure he could ever dream of: treasure maps, pirate ships, and a villain who wants to destroy the creek.

GODZILLA X KONG: THE

NEW EMPIRE • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish

Two ancient titans, Godzilla and Kong, clash in an epic battle as humans unravel their intertwined origins and connection to Skull Island’s mysteries.

THRILLER 40 • English

Follows the making of Michael Jackson’s record-breaking album “Thriller”.

OPPENHEIMER • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish

The story of American scientist, J. Robert Oppenheimer, and his role in the development of the atomic bomb.

THE COLOR PURPLE (2023)

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Torn apart from her sister Nettie and her children, Celie faces many hardships in her life. Celie ultimately nds strength in the bonds of a new kind of sisterhood.

AQUAMAN AND THE LOST KINGDOM • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish

Having failed to defeat Aquaman the rst time, Black Manta, still driven by the need to avenge his father’s death, will stop at nothing to take Aquaman down once and for all.

JUSTICE LEAGUE: CRISIS ON INFINITE EARTHS PART ONE • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish What can even the combined might of

Superman,Wonder Woman, Batman, the Flash, Green Lantern and hundreds of heroes from multiple earths do to save all reality from an unstoppable antimatter armageddon?

WONKA • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish With dreams of opening a shop in a city renowned for its chocolate, a young and poor Willy Wonka discovers that the industry is run by a cartel of greedy chocolatiers.

JUSTICE LEAGUE X RWBY: SUPER HEROES AND HUNTSMEN PART TWO

• English; Portuguese After successfully escaping a deadly digital trap, the members of the Justice League emerge in their own world to discover that Grimm, ravenous creatures from Remnant, have overtaken Earth!

SCOOBY-DOO! AND KRYPTO, TOO!

• English; French; Spanish Follow Scooby-Doo and Mystery Inc. as they look into the disappearance of the Justice League.

BABYLON 5: THE ROAD HOME • English; Portuguese; Spanish John Sheridan nds himself transported through multiple timelines and alternate realities in a quest to nd his way back home.

FRACTURE • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish An attorney intending on climbing the career ladder toward success nds an unlikely opponent in a manipulative criminal he is trying to prosecute.

GANGSTER SQUAD • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish It’s 1949 Los Angeles, the city is run by gangsters and a mobster, Mickey Cohen. Determined to end the corruption, John O’Mara assembles a team of cops, ready to take down the ruthless leader and restore peace to the city.

INTERSTELLAR • English;

Portuguese; French; Spanish

A team of explorers travels through a wormhole in space in an attempt to ensure humanity’s survival.

HOT PURSUIT • English;

Portuguese; French; Spanish

An uptight and by-the-book cop tries to protect the outgoing widow of a drug boss as they race through Texas pursued by crooked cops and murderous gunmen.

IT (2017)• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish A group of bullied kids band together when a shapeshifting demon, taking the appearance of a clown, begins hunting children.

CONTAGION • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish As the fast-moving epidemic grows, the worldwide medical community races to nd a cure and control the panic that spreads faster than the virus itself.

ARGO • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Acting under the cover of a Hollywood producer scouting a location for a science ction lm, a CIA agent launches a dangerous operation to rescue six Americans in Tehran during the US hostage crisis in Iran in 1979.

THE DEPARTED • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish An undercover cop and a mole in the police attempt to identify each other while in ltrating an Irish gang in South Boston.

GRAVITY • English; Portuguese;

GRAVITY • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Dr Ryan Stone, an engineer on her first time on a space mission, and Matt Kowalski, an astronaut on his final expedition, have to survive in space after they are hit by debris while spacewalking.

INCEPTION • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish A thief who steals corporate secrets through the use of dream-sharing technology is given the inverse task of planting an idea into the mind of a CEO, but his tragic past may doom the project and his team to disaster.

WILLY WONKA & THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY

• English; French; Spanish When eccentric candyman Willy Wonka promises a lifetime supply of sweets and a tour of his chocolate factory to five lucky kids, penniless Charlie Bucket seeks the priceless golden ticket that will make him a winner.

THE PRESTIGE • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish After an accident, two stage magicians in 1890s London engage in a battle to create the ultimate illusion while sacrificing everything they have to outwit each other.

THE GREAT GATSBY

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish A writer and Wall Street trader, Nick, finds himself drawn to the past and lifestyle of his millionaire neighbour, Jay Gatsby.

THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish This film tells the story of Benjamin Button, a man who starts aging backwards with bizarre consequences.

THE INTERN • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Seventy-year-old Ben Whittaker has discovered that retirement isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Seizing an opportunity to get back in the game, he becomes a senior

intern at an online fashion site. THE MAN FROM U.N.C.L.E.

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish In the early 1960s, CIA agent Napoleon Solo and KGB operative Illya Kuryakin participate in a joint mission against a mysterious criminal organisation, which is working to proliferate nuclear weapons.

SHAZAM! FURY OF THE

GODS • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Continuing the story of teenage Billy Batson who, upon reciting the magic word “Shazam!”, is transformed into his adult super hero alter ego, Shazam.

DUNE • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Feature adaptation of Frank Herbert’s science fiction novel about the son of a noble family entrusted with the protection of the most valuable asset and most vital element in the galaxy.

READY PLAYER ONE

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish When the creator of a virtual reality world called the OASIS dies, he releases a video in which he challenges all OASIS users to find his Easter egg, which will give the finder his fortune.

MUMMIES • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish

Three mummies end up in present-day London and embark on a journey in search of an old ring belonging to the Royal Family, stolen by the ambitious archaeologist Lord Carnaby.

DC LEAGUE OF SUPER-

PETS • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Krypto the Super-Dog and Superman are inseparable best friends, sharing the same superpowers and fighting crime side-by-side in Metropolis.

KIMI • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish An agoraphobic tech worker discovers a recording of a violent crime and tries to report it to her superiors.

MAD MAX: FURY ROAD

• English; Portuguese; French;

Spanish Haunted by his turbulent past, Mad Max wanders alone until he’s swept up with a band of survivors fleeing a warlord across the Wasteland.

IT CHAPTER TWO • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Twenty-seven years after their first encounter with the terrifying Pennywise, the Losers Club have grown up and moved away, until a devastating phone call brings them back.

SHAZAM! • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish We all have a superhero inside us, it just takes a bit of magic to bring it out. In Billy Batson’s case, by shouting “Shazam!”, this streetwise 14-year-old foster kid can turn into the adult superhero Shazam.

GODZILLA: KING OF THE MONSTERS • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish The crypto-zoological agency Monarch faces off against a battery of god-sized monsters, including the mighty Godzilla, who collides with Mothra, Rodan, and his ultimate nemesis, the three-headed King Ghidorah.

NO SUDDEN MOVE

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish A group of criminals are brought together under mysterious circumstances and have to work together to uncover what’s really going on when their simple job goes completely sideways.

MORTAL KOMBAT

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish MMA fighter Cole Young seeks out Earth’s greatest champions in order to stand against the enemies of Outworld in a high-stakes battle for the universe.

MAGIC MIKE'S LAST DANCE

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Mike takes to the stage again, following a business deal that went bust, leaving him broke and taking bartender gigs in Florida.

HOUSE PARTY • English;

Portuguese; French; Spanish A high school student decides to host a house party while his parents are away.

GODZILLA VS. KONG

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish The epic next chapter in the cinematic Monsterverse pits two of the greatest icons in motion picture history against one another - the fearsome Godzilla and the mighty Kong - with humanity caught in the balance.

TAZ: QUEST FOR BURGER

• English After an outlaw abducts her father and steals her town’s food supply, a feisty adolescent bandicoot named Quinn recruits the Tasmanian Devil to help her find the thief.

OSMOSIS JONES • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish A policeman white blood cell, with the help of a cold pill, must stop a deadly virus from destroying the human they live in, Frank.

CATS & DOGS• English; Portuguese; French A look at the top-secret, high-tech espionage war going on between cats and dogs, of which their human owners are blissfully unaware.

THE LEGO NINJAGO MOVIE

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Shunned by everyone for being the son of an evil warlord, a teenager seeks to defeat him with the help of his fellow ninjas.

DOLPHIN TALE • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish

Inspired by the amazing true story, Dolphin Tale is a family film about Winter, a young dolphin who loses her tail in a crab trap, and Sawyer, the introverted 11-year-old boy who befriends her.

THE LEGO BATMAN MOVIE

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish A cooler-than-ever Bruce Wayne must deal with the usual suspects as they plan to rule Gotham City, while discovering that he has accidentally adopted a teenage orphan who wishes to become his sidekick.

THE ANT BULLY • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish A boy gets shrunk to insect size by the inhabitants of an anthill after soaking them with his water gun. He’s sentenced to hard labour in their colony, where he learns the virtues of teamwork as the ants successfully fight off an exterminator.

LEGEND OF THE GUARDIANS: THE OWLS OF GA’HOOLE • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish When a young owl is abducted by an evil Owl army, he must escape with new-found friends and seek the legendary Guardians to stop the menace.

TEEN TITANS GO! TO THE MOVIES • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish A villain’s maniacal plan for world domination sidetracks five teenage superheroes who dream of Hollywood.

TOM & JERRY • English; Portuguese; French A chaotic battle ensues between Jerry Mouse, who has taken refuge in

the Royal Gate Hotel, and Tom Cat, who is hired to drive him away before the day of a big wedding arrives.

CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish A young boy wins a tour through the most magnificent chocolate factory in the world, led by the world’s most unusual candy maker.

HAPPY FEET TWO

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Mumble’s son, Erik, is struggling to realise his talents in the Emperor Penguin world. Meanwhile, Mumble and his family and friends discover a new threat to their home - one that will take everyone working together to save them.

CREED II • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Under the tutelage of Rocky Balboa, newly crowned heavyweight champion Adonis Creed faces off against Viktor Drago, the son of Ivan Drago.

OCEAN'S ELEVEN

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Danny Ocean and his 10 accomplices plan to rob three Las Vegas casinos simultaneously.

DUNKIRK • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Allied soldiers from Belgium, the British Commonwealth and Empire, and France are surrounded by the German army and evacuated during a battle in World War II.

AQUAMAN • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Arthur Curry, the human-born heir to the underwater kingdom of Atlantis, goes on a quest to prevent a war between the worlds of ocean and land.

MOTHERLESS BROOKLYN

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish In 1950s New York, Lionel Essrog, a lonely private detective living with Tourette syndrome, tries to solve the murder of his mentor and only friend, Frank Minna.

THE BUCKET LIST

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Two terminally ill men escape from a cancer ward and head off on a road trip with a wish list of to-dos before they die.

MAN OF STEEL • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish An alien child is evacuated from his dying world and sent to Earth to live among humans. His peace is threatened when other survivors of his home planet invade Earth.

FLIPPED • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Filmmaker Rob Reiner (The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally) returns to romantic comedy in good form in this witty adaptation of the novel by Wendelin Van Draanen.

42 • English; Portuguese; Spanish In 1947, Jackie Robinson becomes the first African-American to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era when he was signed by the Brooklyn Dodgers and faces considerable racism in the process.

EDGE OF TOMORROW

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish A soldier fighting aliens relives the same day over and over again, the day restarting every time he dies.

YES MAN • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish A man challenges himself to say “yes” to everything. But his willingness to embrace every opportunity might just become too much of a good thing…

PLEASANTVILLE • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Two 1990s teenage siblings find themselves in a 1950s sitcom, where their influence begins to profoundly change that complacent world.

GOING IN STYLE • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Desperate to pay the bills and come through for their loved ones, three lifelong pals risk it all by embarking on a daring bid to knock off the very bank that absconded with their money.

THOSE WHO WISH ME

DEAD • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish A teenage murder witness is pursued by assassins in the Montana wilderness, with a survival expert to protect him, and a forest fire threatening to consume them all.

JOURNEY 2: THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Sean Anderson partners with his mom’s husband on a mission to find his grandfather, thought to be missing on a mythical island.

CRAZY RICH ASIANS

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Native New Yorker Rachel Chu goes to Singapore to meet her boyfriend’s family.

SHERLOCK HOLMES

• English; Portuguese; French; Spanish Detective Sherlock Holmes and his partner Watson engage in a battle of wits and brawn with a nemesis whose plot is a threat to England.

JUST MERCY • English; Portuguese; French; Spanish World-renowned civil rights defense attorney Bryan Stevenson works to free a wrongly condemned death row prisoner.

FILL IN STATION • English Somto and Efe’s urgent needs force them to act out of character.Will their plan succeed or fail?

MANDY'S GOSPEL • English Mandy grows weary of her father’s unwavering principles. However, she soon discovers that these very principles will become her guiding light during critical moments.

LOLA'S GIFT • English Nurse Lola’s fragile heart is severely strained as she becomes emotionally invested in a girl with a terminal illness.

ISLAND DOCTOR 6 • German Filipa Wagner has had enough. The youngest senior doctor in her Frankfurt hospital, she decides to quit her high-flying career and take a job as a general doctor at a 5-star hotel on the paradise island of Mauritius.

ENI • English The coming-ofage story of a girl whose passions are trapped by her inability to communicate.The traditional customs, beliefs and superstitions are an obstacle for her as she faces typical teenage angst.

WHEREVER YOU ARE

• Portuguese Open City Radio broadcasts the show “Wherever You Are”, where people try to communicate with missing relatives and friends. Behind the scenes, several life stories cross and intersect with one another.

SPEND MILES ON FLIGHTS

SAA Voyager members can spend miles on more than 30 airline partners, including the Star Alliance global network. Together, they o er easy connections to almost any destination in the world.

SPEND

MILES

ON LIFESTYLE

SAA Voyager members can spend miles on non-airline Awards, which include Uber Rides & Uber Eats, retail awards and more.

SPEND MILES ON CAR RENTALS

SAA Voyager members can spend miles on car rental.

VOYAGER PARTNERS

SAA LOYALTY PROGRAMME

Enjoy the beneﬁts of being a Voyager member The Voyager programme offers many opportunities to make your flying experience better. Start collecting miles with the actions you take with us and our partners. There are unique ways to spend your miles with us.

SPENDING MILES

>> Spend your SAA Voyager Miles on global ights (more than 30 airline partnerships, including the Star Alliance global network) or non-airline Awards, such as car rental, retail, and more.

>> If you do not have enough Miles for your desired Award,

you can transfer Miles in denominations of 1000 miles for R120, or buy Miles for R100 (SAA ight Awards) and R250 (other airline Awards).

>> Awards available on SAA, other partner airlines and nonairline partners are listed below.

Air Awards

SAA Voyager members can spend miles on more than 30

Voyager Miles can be earned and/or spent when using the following Voyager partners:

airline partnerships, including the Star Alliance global network.

>> Dynamic Awards: SAA Voyager members are guaranteed at least 5% return on your SAA spend when requesting an SAA exclusive Dynamic Award for an SAA-operated ight. You may spend your miles on any available airfare, inclusive of carrierimposed fees for your desired SAA operating ight, thus con rming your redemption seat request immediately.

Non-Air Awards

SAA Voyager members can spend miles on non-airline Awards including car rental, retail, and more.

>> Spending miles: Spending options for non-airline Awards include car rental, e-hailing services, retail, and more. You can spend your miles online; simply login to your account (go to voyager. ysaa.com and click on “My Voyager”) or contact our call centres. To use your miles for products on NetFlorist or Wine-ofthe-Month Club, log onto their respective websites and choose Voyager miles as a payment option. Your miles are valid for three years from the date they were earned, and you can nominate any person of your choice to utilise your Awards.

>> You can spend your miles on car rental or Uber SA.

>> You can spend your miles on any of the lifestyle partners listed on the left.

Book a ticket by miles, apply for a Voyager Credit/Cheque Card, or ﬁnd out more on voyager.ﬂysaa.com

STAR ALLIANCE NAMED THE WORLD’S BEST AIRLINE ALLIANCE

Star Alliance won the “World’s Best Airline Alliance” once again at this year’s prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards. The Alliance’s newly launched Paris Charles de Gaulle airport lounge has also won the World’s Best Airline Alliance Lounge title in its rst year. Celebrating the occasion, Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias said: “We are humbled to learn that millions of customers voted and made us the best yet again. Not only does this acknowledge the e ort we dedicate to making customer journeys seamless, but it also motivates us further to achieve more.”

Star Alliance, the world’s rst and largest airline alliance, represents a globally recognised brand committed to providing a seamless experience for its collective customer base. Dedicated to delivering a smoother journey, Star Alliance and its member airlines o er the widest network in the sky, along with bene ts such as loyalty reciprocation, e cient baggage tracking, exclusive lounge access, and expedited gold track security clearance, among other perks. The Star Alliance lounge at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport opened in October 2023 and quickly became a favourite among frequent yers. This expansive 1,300 square meter facility is conveniently located in Terminal 1, o ering exceptional runway views, a beautifully designed welcome bar, and an immersive wine section for an authentic French experience.

>> For more information, visit staralliance.com

UNPARALLELED LOYALTY RECOGNITION

Enrolling as a member of any Star Alliance member airline frequent- yer programme is your gateway to exceptional rewards and bene ts. By accumulating miles and points from all your ights across the network into a uni ed account, you gain the signi cant advantage of quicker redemption opportunities and exciting bene ts.

Star Alliance o ers online redemption of miles and points for award ights and upgrade awards across the 26-member airline network, making it convenient and hassle-free for travellers. Redeeming miles and points is easy with three simple steps:

STEPS TO REDEEM MILES

LOG IN

Go to your airline’s frequent-ﬂyer programme website and log in.

CHECK

Check the miles and points you have collected and see which award ﬂights are available across the network.

BOOK

Book a ﬂight online on any of the 26 member airlines by redeeming your frequent-ﬂyer miles or points.

NOROUTEDEPARR MTWTFSS

Between Johannesburg and Accra

*SA 056 JNB - ACC 10:5515:00 xxx

*SA 057 ACC - JNB 20:1504:05 xxx

Between Accra and Abidjan

*SA 056 ACC - ABJ 16:0017:00 xxx

*SA 057 ABJ - ACC 18:0019:05 xxx

Between Johannesburg and Abidjan

*SA 056 JNB - ABJ 10:5517:00 xxx

*SA 057 ABJ - JNB 18:0004:05 xxx

Between Johannesburg and Cape Town

SA 303JNB - CPT 06:0508:15 xxxxx

SA 313JNB - CPT 08:1010:20 xxxxx

SA 317JNB - CPT 09:0511:15 xx

SA 323JNB - CPT 09:5512:05 x

SA 337JNB - CPT 13:0015:10 xx

SA 343JNB - CPT 14:3016:40 xxxxx

SA 357 JNB - CPT 16:4018:50 xxxxxxx

SA 359 JNB - CPT 17:3019:40 xxxxxxx

SA 369JNB - CPT 20:3022:40 xxxxxxx

SA 302CPT - JNB 06:0008:00 xxxxx

SA 308CPT - JNB 07:2509:25 xx

SA 314CPT - JNB 08:1010:10 x

SA 316CPT - JNB 08:5010:50 xxxxx

SA 326 CPT - JNB 10:5512:55 xxxxx

SA 334CPT - JNB 13:0515:05 x

SA 334CPT - JNB 14:1016:10 x

SA 352 CPT - JNB 15:5017:50 xx

SA 354CPT - JNB 17:2019:20 xxxxx

SA 366CPT - JNB 19:2521:25 xxxxxxx

SA 372 CPT - JNB 20:2022:20 xxxxxxx Between Johannesburg and Durban

SA 527 JNB - DUR 06:3007:35 xxxxx

SA 539 JNB - DUR 09:2010:25 xx

SA 555

South African Airways Codeshare routes

Routes at time of going to press

JOHANNESBURG

MAURITIUS

CAPE TOWN

DURBAN

WINDHOEK

ACCRA LAGOS

KINSHASA

CAIRO

SHARM EL SHEIKH

LUXOR DUBAI

ADDIS ABABA

DAR ES SALAAM

ENTEBBE

NAIROBI JUBA

SINGAPORE

LUSAKA

VICTORIA FALLS

MOMBASA

KISUMU

SÃO PAULO

ABIDJAN

OUR FLEET

AIRBUS A320-200

• Maximum passengers: 138

• Overall length: 37,57m •Wingspan: 34,1m

• Overall height: 11m • Maximum fuel capacity: 23 860L

• Typical cruising speed: 820km/h

AIRBUS A330-300

• Maximum passengers: 249

• Overall length: 63,9m • Wingspan: 60,3m

• Overall height: 16,8m • Maximum fuel capacity: 97 530L

• Typical cruising speed: 871km/h

CUSTOMS INFO

Everything you need to know to ensure your entry to South Africa is hassle-free

>> CUSTOMS DUTY

Customs duty is levied on imported goods and is usually calculated on the value of the goods.

>> PERSONS ENTERING SOUTH AFRICA

People may enter South Africa at any appointed place of entry. All the goods in their possession must be declared to a customs o cial at the port of entry. When dutiable goods are in their possession, the relevant duties and VAT must be paid.

>> GOODS THAT MAY BE IMPORTED WITHOUT THE PAYMENT OF CUSTOMS DUTY AND VAT

(A) Visitors: Personal e ects and sporting and recreational equipment, new or used, imported either as accompanied or unaccompanied baggage for their own use during their stay in South Africa.

AIRBUS A340-300

• Maximum passengers: 253

• Overall length: 63,69m • Wingspan:60,3m

• Overall height: 16,7m • Maximum fuel capacity: 141 500L

• Average cruising speed: 860km/h

CONTACT US

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Weekdays 08:00-16:30, excluding South African public holidays saacustomerservice@ ﬂysaa.com

• +27 11 978 2888

RESERVATIONS 24 hours reservationsjnb@ﬂysaa.com

• +27 11 978 1111

BAGGAGE SERVICE (lost/ damaged) Daily 07:00-19:00 baggageservices@ﬂysaa.com

• +27 11 978 2888

REFUNDS Weekdays 08:0016:30, excluding South African public holidays. New refund

saasawubona.com

request: +27 11 978 1786

ﬂysaa.com/refund-application

CARGO Weekdays 06:00-21:00, excluding South African public holidays, Saturdays and Sundays, 08:00-16:00 saacargoreservations@ﬂysaa. com • +27 11 978 1119/3366

WEBSITE QUERIES

webhelp@ﬂysaa.com

VOYAGER Weekdays 07:0021:00, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays 08:00-14:00 voyagerservicerecovery@ﬂysaa. com • +27 11 978 1234

(B) Residents: Personal e ects and sporting and recreational equipment, new or used, exported by residents of South Africa for their own use while abroad and subsequently re-imported either as accompanied or unaccompanied baggage.

(C) Limits in respect of certain goods: The following goods may be included in passengers’ baggage either by residents or non-residents, but not exceeding the following limits:

• Wine: 2 litres per person.

• Spirits and other alcoholic beverages: 1 litre per person.

• Cigarettes: 200 cigarettes per person.

• Cigars: 20 cigars per person.

• Cigarette or pipe tobacco: 250g per person.

• Perfume: 50ml per person.

• Eau de toilette: 250ml per person.

• Other new or used goods to a total value not exceeding R5 000 per person, excluding consumables. The limit for crew members is R700.

• Allowances may not be pooled or transferred to other persons.

PLEASE NOTE: Visitors may be required to pay a cash deposit to cover duties and tax on expensive articles such as video cameras. The deposit on the goods is refunded on departure from South Africa.

CHILDREN UNDER 18 YEARS

• Children under 18 may claim duty-free allowances on goods used by them.

• Children under 18 may not claim allowances for tobacco and alcohol.

• Parents may make a customs declaration on behalf of their children.

Customs clearance procedures for passengers:

• Passengers may select either the red or green channel upon arrival in South Africa.

• By selecting the red channel, a passenger indicates that he/she has goods to declare.

• The customs officer in the red channel must ascer tain the value of the goods declared and the duties payable by the passenger’s duty-free allowances.

• By selecting the green channel, a passenger indicates that he/she has no goods to declare.

• Random searches of passengers and baggage in the g reen channel are conducted.

The following goods are prohibited from import: Vegetables, groundnuts, firewood, honey, used pneumatic tyres, raw animal wool and hair, electric blankets, coins, video recorders and reproducers, revolvers and pistols.

The following goods are prohibited from export unless special permits are obtained from the relevant government department: Human bodies or body parts; meat and edible portions from cattle, sheep, goats or pigs; meat and edible animal offal salted, in brine, dried or smoked; edible flours and meals of meat or offal; cane or beet sugar and chemicals; pure sucrose in solid form; raw hides and skins of bovine or equine animals (fresh or salted, dried, limed, pickled or otherwise preserved, but not tanned, parchmentdressed or further prepared), whether or not dehaired or split; bank notes, securities or foreign currency.

>>

PROHIBITED

AND RESTRICTED IMPORTS AND EXPORTS

Apart from the requirements of the Export Control Regulations, the exportation and importation of a wide variety of goods is either totally prohibited or is subject to inspection by other authorities and/or production of special permits/licences, issued by certain authorities only. A

comprehensive list of prohibited and restricted imports and exports is available on the South African Revenue Service website (sars.gov.za).

PLEASE NOTE: Baggage is cleared at the first point of entry in South Africa. In case of connecting on a domestic flight baggage must be collected,customs cleared and rechecked.

CUSTOMER BAGGAGE

Help us make sure your baggage gets there with you

At SAA, our goal is to deliver your baggage to you at your destination safely and timeously. However, due to circumstances beyond our control, baggage may be delayed, lost or damaged. In that case, our representatives at all SAA destinations will do their best to retrieve it or compensate you and minimise any inconvenience to you. Kindly note the following guidelines:

LABELLING YOUR LUGGAGE

• Unique identification: ensure your bag’s easy to recognise by tagging the outside with a colourful ribbon, and using a name tag with your correct name, address, telephone number, email address and destination address.

• The following items should NOT be packed in your check-in bags, but rather carried in your hand luggage: money, passports or visas, computer equipment, laptops, electronic devices, mobile phones, fragile items, business documents, keys, jewellery, lithium-ion batteries and e-cigarettes.

• Always ensure that your bags are locked prior to check-in, as this acts as a deterrent.

• Take advantage of the wrapping services provided at the airport as an additional preventative measure against damage and pilferage.

PLEASE NOTE: SAA does not take responsibility for the loss of valuable items in checked baggage including money, passports or visas, computer equipment, electronic devices, mobile phones, fragile items, business documents, keys, and jewellery.

>> SECURITY AND HAND LUGGAGE

• Due to limited space in the overhead compartments, your hand luggage may be placed in the cargo hold.

• Remove all valuables, powerbanks, lithium-ion batteries and e-cigarettes from your hand luggage before it’s taken for stowage in the cargo hold.

• Ask for an airline tag with your name and flight details.

• For international travel, liquids, aerosols and gels measuring more than 100ml aren’t permitted in hand luggage. If they measure less than 100ml, they must be secured in a Ziploc bag.

BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE (ROUTE-SPECIFIC)

• Economy Class: One to two pieces at a maximum of 23kg each.

• Business Class: One to two pieces at a maximum of 32kg each.

• Infants not entitled to a seat shall only be permitted one piece of luggage up to 23kg and one collapsible pram, car seat or collapsible buggy.

>> REPORTING MISHANDLED LUGGAGE

Report your mishandled baggage to the Baggage Services office at the airport.

• A file will be created for tracing purposes.

• Your personal and travel information will be key.

>> LOST BAGGAGE

If your baggage has been lost, report the incident immediately or within seven calendar days to the office of SAA’s Baggage Services, where you’ll receive a unique reporting number. We’ll initiate the tracing of the baggage and will continue for up to 120 hours, although most misdirected baggage is located sooner. You’ll be informed as soon as your baggage is traced and (where local customs regulations permit), it will be delivered to the address you have provided.

>> TRACKING AND TRACING

During the tracing period, you may contact our office for information on progress made at the telephone number below or via WorldTracer, a computerised tracking system that can be found at flysaa.com under “Essential Information”.

>> DAMAGED BAGS

If your baggage is damaged, we’ll carry out all repairs and replacements (where necessary) according to the Carrier’s Baggage Liability Limitations. This excludes normal wear and tear, and manufacturers’ defects. The incident must be reported immediately or within 7 (seven) days of receipt of the baggage for international travel and within 24 (twenty-four) hours for domestic travel to the office of SAA’s Baggage Services, where you’ll receive a unique reporting number.

>> CLAIMS PROCEDURE

The next step is to submit a completed claim form to the Passenger Claims office. The finalisation of claims takes up to 21 working days. Please complete the form as thoroughly as possible, and attach all required documentation, including proof of bank account, to expedite the process.

ENQUIRIES:

Customer Services: +27 11 978 2888 Baggage Enquiries: baggageservices@flysaa.com

>> SEATS

OUR CABIN GUIDE

In order to make your journey a pleasant one, please note the information on the following pages

• Time to relax! The backrest of your seat can be adjusted. For extra comfort during the flight, you may wish to lean back. Press the button in the armrest of your seat for the backrest to tilt slightly. Note that on the narrow-bodied aircraft, seats forward of the emergency exit rows have limited tilt or do not recline.

• When seated in Economy Class, for the comfort of the person behind you, kindly ensure that your seat is in the upright position whenever meals or refreshments are served.

IN-SEAT POWER SUPPLY

In-seat power is available at every seat in Premium Class on board the Airbus A330-300 and in Business Class on the A320. The sockets are designed for:

• Two-pin European plugs, as illustrated.

• Two- or three-pin US plugs. Other types of plugs will require an adaptor.

• Power supply is intended for the charging of portable electronic devices only. 110-240Vac, 50-60Hz, max 75-100W per seat, subject to aircraft type.

• With laptop use, when the battery is very low or completely flat, it is advisable to remove the battery before connecting the laptop to the power supply. This will allow for optimal laptop usage and power supply.

• The A333 and A320 aircraft have a shared USB and laptop-charging point in Economy Class.

• The in-seat power supply is not sufficient to power medical assistive devices such as oxygen concentrators and CPAPs, because the wattage required by the devices exceeds the in-seat power capability.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUERIES OR NEED ASSISTANCE, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO ASK ONE OF OUR CABIN CREW MEMBERS

>> DRINKING WATER

Bottled water is available on request from our cabin crew members.

IN-FLIGHT SERVICE

The cabin crew members are always at your service. Should you require attendance, please ring the service bell, which is situated either in your armrest or in the passenger service unit above your seat.

>> READING

LIGHT

Each seat has an individual reading light that enables you to read when the cabin lights are set to dim without disturbing your fellow passengers. You’ll find the switch in the armrest of your seat or in the service unit above you.

DISINSECTION SPRAY

Health regulations in some countries require that the aircraft cabin be sprayed with disinsectant. The spray is harmless, but if you think it might affect you, please cover your nose and mouth with a handkerchief.

>> MOTHERS AND CHILDREN

• For the convenience of mothers with babies, diaper boards are available in certain toilets on all our aircraft.

• Toys and games to keep little ones occupied during international flights are available on request from the cabin crew.

ACHES AND PAINS

Medical supplies for minor ailments are available on board. Ask a cabin crew member for assistance.

FOR YOUR COMFORT

• Blankets and pillows are available.

• Please lower your window shutter at night to ensure that you and your fellow passengers do not wake up a few hours later with the sun shining

in your eyes. This is also applicable on daylight flights for passengers who want to get some rest.

>> IN-FLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT

Once cruising altitude has been reached, the cabin crew will switch on the entertainment system. If you are travelling on board the Airbus A330-300, kindly refer to the AudioVideo on Demand system for the entertainment line-up.

>> DUTY-FREE SALES

Duty-free articles are for sale on international flights. Please consult the Extraordinair catalogue for details.

>> ADMISSION TO THE FLIGHT DECK

Admission to the flight deck is no longer allowed for security reasons.

>> INTERFERENCE WITH CABIN CREW DUTIES

It is an offence to interfere with the duties of the cabin crew members on board.

>> CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOL

Only alcohol served by a cabin crew member can be consumed on board SAA aircraft.

>> USE OF LAVATORIES

Kindly make use of the lavatories in your respective class of travel. Please do not throw foreign objects into the toilets, as this may cause them to become blocked.

>> HEALTHY FLYING TIPS

To make your flight more comfortable, we have included several healthy flying tips at the back of this section.

>> COMFORT DEVICES

The use of in-flight travel accessories and non-certified comfort devices, e.g. CoziGo, Flyaway Kids Bed, Fly Tot, Fly LegsUp, Foot Hammock, JetBed, etc, which attach to aircraft seats, are inserted between seats, or otherwise block access to seat rows or aisles, are prohibited.

UNRULY/DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOUR ON BOARD

In terms of the Civil Aviation Act (No. 13 of 2009), any person who on board any aeroplane:

• By force or threat of force or by any other form of intimidation and without lawful reason seizes, or exercises control of, that aeroplane;

• Commits an act of violence, including an assault or threat, whether of a physical or verbal nature, against any person, including a crew member, which is likely to endanger the safety of that aeroplane;

• Wilfully interferes with any member of the crew of that aeroplane in the performance of his or her duties;

• Commits any nuisance or disorderly or indecent act;

• Is in a state of intoxication;

• Behaves in a violent manner towards any person, including a crew member, which is likely to endanger the safety or security of the aeroplane or of any person on board such aeroplane;

• Smokes in a toilet or any other place on the aeroplane where smoking is prohibited;

• Tampers with a smoke detector or any other safety-related device on board the aeroplane;

• Operates a portable electronic device when the operation of such a device is prohibited;

• Refuses to obey a lawful instruction given by or on behalf of the pilot-in-command for the purpose of ensuring the safety of the aeroplane or of any person or property on board, or for the purpose of maintaining good order and discipline on board the aeroplane; or

• Conveys any conventional arms, drugs or animal product in an aeroplane; is guilty of an offence and, on conviction, liable to a fine and/or imprisonment.

FOR THE PURPOSES OF THIS CHAPTER:

1. “Animal Product” means any part or portion of, or product derived from, any animal, including any such part, portion or product in any processed form which is possessed contrary to the provisions of any other Act of Parliament or regulation promulgated in terms of such Act; 2. “Drugs” means any drug as defined in Chapter 1 of the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act, 1992 (Act No. 140 of 1992), that has not been acquired, bought or possessed lawfully as contemplated in Chapter 4 of that Act; 3. “Conventional Arms” bears the meaning assigned thereto in Chapter 1 of the National Conventional Arms Control Act, 2002 (Act No. 41 of 2002), some exceptions exist.

PLEASE NOTE: In terms of International Civil Aviation legislation, the Commander (Captain) of the aircraft is authorised/empowered to take any action deemed necessary, including restraint of any persons or property on board. In terms of this authority, the Commander may request and/or authorise any member of the crew to render assistance in terms of restraint of, or action against such offenders. In terms of SAA’s right of refusal of carriage, SAA reserves the right to refuse boarding to any person who is intoxicated or who, under reasonable grounds, is believed to pose a potential danger to safety and/or good order and discipline on board its aircraft.

OUR SAFETY GUIDE

SAA has your safety at heart. Please read these pages carefully

SAFETY PAMPHLET

A safety pamphlet is provided at your seat. Please familiarise yourself with its important information and note the location of your nearest emergency exit.

SLEEPING ON THE FLOOR IS PROHIBITED

For your own safety, sleeping on the floor is prohibited. In the event of an irregular occurrence and/or emergency, passengers sleeping on the floor would not have access to seat belts and oxygen masks.

SEAT BELTS

Seat belt signs are visible throughout the cabin. Whenever the signs are illuminated, fasten your seat belt. Keep it fastened throughout the flight. If sleeping under a blanket or duvet, fasten the seat belt over it so the cabin crew does not need to wake you in the event of turbulence. On the Airbus 330-300, if you are seated in Premium Class, ensure your shoulder belt is fastened for take-off and landing. Passengers less than 1.3m in height are not required to make use of the shoulder belt.

LIQUIDS, AEROSOLS AND GELS (LAGS)

REMAIN SEATED

After landing, remain seated until the aircraft has come to a complete stop and the Commander has switched off the seat belt signs.

PRIOR TO TAKE-OFF AND LANDING

In preparation for take-off or landing, ensure flight mode is selected on your PED and it is switched off, your baggage is stowed, your tray table, footrest, armrest and TV screen are stowed, your window shutter is open, your seat is in the upright position and your seat belt is fastened.

SMOKING

As per South African Civil Aviation Authority regulations, smoking on board is prohibited. This includes the smoking of any artificial device or e-cigarettes.

BASSINETS

he use of the bassinet is restricted by infant size and weight. The bassinet can comfortably accommodate an infant of 75cm in length. The bassinet is designed to carry a maximum load of 11kg. In the interest of safety and to prevent exceeding the weight limitation of the bassinet, it is recommended that the weight limitation of the infant not exceed 10kg. The size and weight limitation of the bassinet must not be exceeded. The infant must fit into the bassinet. Note: An infant aged 9 to 12 months has an average length of 74cm and a weight between 9,2 kg and 11,4 kg.

When travelling on international flights from South Africa, passengers are restricted from carrying certain LAGs in the aircraft cabin. These rules are aligned to International Civil Aviation Authority standards. Passengers wishing to carry essential liquids with them on board the aircraft must place them in a resealable, clear plastic bag with a maximum capacity of one litre and a total diameter of 80cm. No item containing liquid may exceed 100ml and it must fit comfortably inside the sealed bag. If these limitations are not adhered to, items will be confiscated by airport security, and SAA will not be in a position to recover them for passengers. When proceeding through airport security checkpoints, the bag holding these items must be separated from other cabin baggage.

Items that are exempt from LAG restrictions and that may be carried on board, without being placed in a clear plastic bag, are:

• Baby formula/milk and baby food in small containers, provided the child is travelling with the person carrying these.

• Essential and other nonprescription medicines not exceeding 100ml per container, including saline solution and products such as eye drops and contact lens solution.

• Liquids, gels and juice for diabetic passengers who require them for medical reasons.

• Solid cosmetics and personal hygiene items such as lipsticks in tubes, solid deodorants and lip balms.

Any duty-free LAG products purchased after security checkpoints should be placed in special security bags at the store, and passengers connecting to further destinations are advised to keep these sealed throughout their journey.

CARRY-ON BAGGAGE

Storage for your cabin baggage is provided either under the seat in front of you or in the overhead stowage compartment. For your own safety and that of the passengers around you, please do not exceed the weight limitations of these compartments and ensure that items placed in them are securely positioned. Be careful when opening the overhead stowage compartments as some luggage may have shifted during the flight.

BUSINESS CLASS

SAA will accept two pieces of cabin baggage, neither of which may exceed 56cm x 36cm x 23cm in dimension and 8kg in weight.

ECONOMY

CLASS

SAA will accept one piece of cabin baggage not exceeding 56cm x 36cm x 23cm in dimension and 8kg in weight. These baggage limitations apply to all passengers travelling in Economy Class, regardless of their Voyager or other status.

PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES (PEDS)

In accordance with the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, each passenger may carry a maximum of 15 PEDs on board.

The use of PEDs is restricted due to the possibility of electromagnetic interference (EMI) with aircraft frequencies that may adversely affect the performance of aircraft systems and/or equipment.

PEDs are categorised into nontransmitting and transmitting electronic devices.

Non-transmitting devices (PEDs) are not designed to transmit or receive data, but can still emit EMI at low levels; Transmitting devices (T-PEDs) are designed to transmit or receive data through various technologies, including cellular, wireless (Wi-Fi) and other radio frequencies (i.e. Bluetooth and infrared).

Many T-PEDs allow the user to disable the transmitting function (e.g. flight mode, flight-safe mode, airplane mode, Wi-Fi disabled, Bluetooth disabled). When disabled, the T-PED becomes a non-transmitting device.

To manage the safe use of PEDs in the passenger cabin, PEDs are divided into four categories: unrestricted, limited, restricted and prohibited. Each category provides restrictions governing the use of the PEDs during each phase of flight. The following table provides a summary pertaining to the restrictions governing each category.

UNRESTRICTED

• Electronic watches;

• Cameras;

• Hearing aids;

• Heart pacemakers;

• Approved medical portable electronic devices (MPEDs). Can be used any time.

RESTRICTED

• Electronic games with Wi-Fi disabled/not installed;

• Digital media players;

• Virtual reality headsets.

Prohibited during taxi, take-off, initial climb, approach and landing. May be used in-flight once the seat belt/ PED sign has been switched off. Transmitting function must be disabled on aircraft door closing.

LIMITED

• Mobile phones and smartphones;

• Laptops, tablets, PDAs;

• eReaders.

Transmitting function may be used before doors close and after landing once the aircraft has left the active runway. Lightweight/small handheld devices may be used during taxi, take-off, initial climb, approach, landing with flight mode, flight-safe mode, airplane mode activated and/or Wi-Fi and Bluetooth disabled. Transmitting function must be disabled on aircraft door closing.

PROHIBITED

The items below are prohibited at all times:

• Mobile phones without flight mode, flight-safe mode, airplane mode;

• AM/FM transmitters & receivers (including televisions, radios);

• Remote-controlled devices (passenger owned);

• VHF scanners/receivers;

• Two-way transmitters such as walkie-talkies, amateur radios.

NOTE: Lightweight/small handheld PEDs are devices that can be held firmly in one hand or in the user’s pockets, allowing one hand free to release the restraint belt. Larger PEDs, such as laptops, must be placed in an approved stowage location during taxi, take-off, initial climb, approach and landing. Seat pockets might not be approved to hold the weight of a laptop. CCMs should ensure that the stowage location used is appropriate to accommodate the size and weight of the device.

Trailing cables from devices (and/or headsets/headphones) must be secured to prevent trip/entanglement hazards via the following means: To be placed on the seat, in the seat pocket, or in an approved stowage location; or to be kept on one’s person, or placed in one’s cabin baggage. Due to the risks involved with overheating lithium batteries and ensuring effective crew response, charging of devices is prohibited during taxi, take-off, initial climb, approach and landing.

SPECIAL TRAVEL NEEDS

Because your health, comfort and safety are very important to us, SAA offers services for travellers who require special assistance or have special medical needs.

>> SPECIAL ASSISTANCE

Travelling should always be a pleasure, and we go out of our way to make sure that anybody with special needs feels particularly cared for. That can be a disability, a medical condition, a dietary requirement, or the fact that you are travelling with young babies or children.

Many of these services need to be booked in advance, so please read the information below.

For further information, details of services offered, or any other queries, contact: SAA Special Bookings • specialhandling@flysaa.com

>> TRAVELLING WITH SPECIAL TRAVEL NEEDS

If you have special travel needs, we recommend that you make your travel plans as early as possible, so that we can serve you better. Should you require any medical assistance, please request it when making your reservation, or at least 48 hours prior to the departure of your flight through your local SAA office. It is important that you provide SAA with detailed information at the time of booking. Please let us know:

• The type of mobility aids you are travelling with

• Whether they are collapsible, electric or non-electric

• The dimensions, in adjusted or disassembled state, and weight of the mobility aids

• If you require access to a wheelchair at the airpor t and/or on the aircraft

• If you require transfer from wheelchair to aircraft seat and vice versa

• If you have a service dog (e.g. emotional-support dogs) that needs amenities. For conditions pertaining to the transportation of such animals, please visit gov.za/ services/import/import-animalsand-animal-products

• If you need elderly care

• If you need on-board facilities for the use of medical equipment, e.g. a battery-operated C-PAP machine

• If you need an adjacent seat for your carer

>> BEFORE THE DAY OF DEPARTURE

Please ensure the assistance you requested has been confirmed and authorised by SAA before you arrive at the airport. Ensure that you have all the relevant documentation, including a Frequent Traveller’s Medical Card (FREMEC) and medical clearance, if applicable.

>> FREMEC

In order to make travelling easier for passengers with a disability, stable medical conditions or special needs, we offer the FREMEC card. This card’s validity is dependent on passenger condition; it varies from one to two years. The card helps you to avoid the hassle of obtaining medical clearance for each journey, and automatically determines your special requirements. Such cards are usually honoured by other airlines. For card renewal, your doctor needs to complete the application on your behalf.

Fax the completed form to SAA Special Bookings: +27 11 978 1111 or visit your local SAA reservations office.

>> ON THE DAY OF DEPARTURE

It is advisable that you check in early so that we will have enough time to assist you.

• Flights within South Africa: Arrive at least 90 minutes before flight departure.

• International flights: Arrive three hours before departure time.

INTERNATIONAL COMPLIANCE

SAA is covered by the United States rule for non-discrimination on the basis of disability. A full copy of the rule is available on request.

GUIDANCE FOR PHYSICIANS AND PASSENGERS

>> SICK PASSENGERS MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE FOLLOWING:

• Reduced atmospheric pressure. (Cabin air pressure changes greatly 15-30 minutes after take-off and before landing, and gas expansion and contraction can cause pain and pressure.)

• Reduced oxygen tension. (The cabin is at a pressure equivalent to an altitude of 6 000-8 000 feet, and partial oxygen pressure is ± 20% less than on the ground.)

>> THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS/CIRCUMSTANCES REQUIRE MEDICAL CLEARANCE FROM SAA:

The following is not exhaustive, and if you are in any doubt as to whether your condition may require clearance, we urge you to contact SAA Special Bookings before flying:

Passenger s who require us to provide in-flight oxygen

• Oxygen equipment used will be subject to aircraft type and medical condition.

Please visit faa.gov for the approved list of portable oxygen concentrators (POCs).

• SAA can provide a POC that supplies oxygen on demand at a flow rate of 1 – 5LPM. The POC may only be used after take-off and shall be stowed in preparation for the landing.

(NOTE: The cost to the passenger for this service is US$150 per flight segment.)

• SAA can provide an oxygen cylinder for regional flights and domestic flights that supply continuous oxygen at a flow rate of 2LPM and 4LPM.

(NOTE: The cost to the passenger for this service is US$150.)

• A passenger may elect to use their personal battery-powered POC

approved by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This device may be used to supply continuous oxygen. The POC may not be used with a mask. The passenger must provide a nasal cannula.

(NOTE: No additional cost will apply when passengers provide their own FAA-approved battery-powered POC.)

• The passenger must supply the extra batteries. The spare batteries must be carried in the passenger’s hand baggage and declared to the cabin crew. The spare batteries must be fully charged.

• The spare batteries must be individually protected in order to prevent short circuits – by placement, and in the original retail packaging, or by otherwise insulating the terminals (e.g. taping over the exposed terminals or placing each battery in a separate bag or pouch).

• The spare batteries must be carried in the passenger’s cabin hand baggage.

• Only three batteries are allowed on board: one inside the machine and two spares. The power of each battery must not exceed 160Wh.

• The permissible watt-hour rating is 160Wh. Because the 24-cell battery packs of the Inogen One G2 consist of two 12-cell battery packs delivering 195,4Wh, exceeding the permissible rating, this battery pack is not permissible on board. The Inogen One G2 must be powered with an alternate acceptable battery pack.

• A passenger who requires continuous-flow oxygen must book an oxygen cylinder (for regional and domestic flights only), and not a concentrator, subject to operational requirements. However, passengers may bring their own batteryoperated continuous-flow oxygen concentrators.

• Some oxygen concentrators work on demand; therefore, passengers are advised that they will receive oxygen flow only on inhalation.

• Medical portable electronic devices provided by passengers must be battery-operated.

• Because aircraft power is not the same as other electrical power, equipment plugged into an electrical power outlet in an aircraft could cause damage to both the aircraft and the equipment.

• The safety of the aircraft may be compromised due to electro-magnetic interference (EMI), especially during the critical phases of take-off and landing, and on the ground during alignment of the instrumentation and software loading.

>> THE FOLLOWING PASSENGERS ARE REQUIRED TO BOOK VIA THE CALL CENTRE OR TRAVEL AGENT:

• Travellers who require a medical escort or in-flight medical treatment

• Travellers who have a communicable disease or infection

• Your doctor must state whether the condition poses a direct threat to the safety or health of others, and advise about precautions necessary to prevent transmission.

• Travellers who have been operated on or admitted to hospital in the two weeks before the flight

• Your doctor must state whether you have recovered sufficiently, and whether your condition has stabilised enough to travel by commercial air transport.

• Travellers suffering from an acute or chronic medical condition for which they might need to take medication during the flight

• Travellers who suffer from any acute or severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, high fever, severe pain, etc.

• Travellers who recently suffered a major medical incident (heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and respiratory failure or recent pneumothorax)

• Travellers who had thrombophlebitis

• Travellers who might develop any symptoms or behaviour that could have an adverse effect on the welfare of other passengers on board

• Travellers whose medical condition might be aggravated during or because of the flight

• Travellers who are travelling with a premature infant or an infant with a medical condition

• An unaccompanied minor with a medical condition

• Travellers with an unstable mental illness or impairment

SPECIFIC CASES

SERVICE DOGS

• A service dog accompanying its owner is accepted on most flights in the passenger cabin of any class, free of charge.

• The dog may however not occupy a seat, and must not be kept in a location that would block escape routes in the event of an emergency.

• The service dog must be properly harnessed, and remain with the traveller at all times.

• Travellers with service dogs are required to contact their local South African Airways office prior to booking for further information, flight eligibility, and to be allocated a suitable seat.

• Ask our staff at O.R. Tambo International Airport where the local animal relief area is situated. For service dog transportation, please visit gov.za/services/import/importanimals-and-animal-products

>> WHEELCHAIRS AND MOBILITY AIDS

For travellers with limited mobility, we offer the following assistance:

• Wheelchairs at the airport: We can arrange for wheelchair transpor t from check-in to the boarding gate, and from the aircraft to the arrivals hall at your destination.

• Travelling with your own wheelchair:You are welcome to check in one wheelchair as baggage, free of charge.

• Each traveller is entitled to one mobility aid, e.g. wheelchair, crane or crutches, free of charge, in addition to their standard baggage allowance. These items must be small enough to be stowed without obstruction, and must meet SAA baggage policy requirements.

• Travellers requiring the use of wheelchairs or mobility aids are advised to make their travel arrangements in advance.

>> TRAVELLING WITH MEDICATION

Passengers should ensure that they keep their medication in their hand luggage, and have a medical letter on hand outlining their condition and medication in case they encounter difficulties while travelling.

• Medicines required on board must be carr ied in cabin baggage, and passengers must carry a letter from their treating physician. All excess medicines and liquids are to be carried in checked baggage. When taking liquids through security control, passengers should please ensure that they comply with the airport’s restrictions.

• All prescription medicine, syringes and needles used by diabetics must be sealed and properly labelled.

• The quantity of syringes and needles is limited to the amount required for the flight.

• They must be disposed of in a safe manner.

• For medication requiring refr igeration, passengers should make sure that they bring a cooler box with ice packs, and keep the medication with them for the duration of the flight.

>> EXPECTANT MOTHERS AND PARENTS WITH BABIES

• Medical clearance to fly is only necessary if you are having complications with your pregnancy.

• Domestic travel is per mitted up to 36 weeks for a routine pregnancy.

• International travel is permitted up to 35 weeks for a routine pregnancy.

All pregnant women beyond 28 weeks of gestation must provide a letter from their obstetrician, general practitioner or midwife stating the following:

• Term of pregnancy

• Fitness to travel

• Whether it is a single, multiple or high-risk pregnancy

• Any possible complications, including hyper tensive passengers, history of premature labour, etc.

Infants are allowed to travel from seven days of age. Passengers are allowed to fly 10 days after major abdominal surgery. The special-bookings process must be followed.

>> COLOSTOMY BAGS

Travellers dependent on colostomy bags must ensure that they have an empty bag at the start of the journey. Passengers are responsible for carrying enough bags for the duration of the flight, and disposing of them in a responsible manner upon arrival at destination.

>> NUT AND OTHER ALLERGIES

Passengers who have serious allergies must bring it to the attention of our reservations department. Passengers are required to bring their own emergency medication, e.g. injectable epinephrine, such as an EpiPen.

South African Airways does not take responsibility for any allergens that may arise from food, medications, pets, rodents, dust mites, or nut and other allergens.

>> STOWAGE OF CARRY-ON ITEMS

Our cabin crew will assist with loading and retrieval of carry-on items, and small assistive devices stowed on board the aircraft. These items must be small enough to be stowed without obstruction, and must meet SAA baggage policy requirements.

>> ON-BOARD WHEELCHAIR

All our aircrafts are equipped with an on-board wheelchair, allowing passengers to be escorted to and from the toilets. We also have seats with movable armrests that facilitate the transfer of a passenger from the on-board wheelchair to the seat and vice versa.

Household employees are not just part of our homes and the management of their upkeep; in many ways they’re extended family and deserve access to quality healthcare that’s both reliable and affordable too.

Flexicare gives your household employee access to private healthcare from as little as R350pm*. Yes, that’s all it can cost to help your household employee access healthcare that can take care of their overall health needs.

Flexicare offers cover for day-to-day healthcare needs, including:

Unlimited doctor consultations*

Day-to-day medicine

Chronic medicine (including for HIV)

Dentistry services**

Optometry services**

Maternity services

COVID-19 testing

Wellness screenings

*Available with Nurse referral on Flexicare. **Available on Flexicare Plus only.

Flexicare is a trusted product offered by Auto&General and administered by Discovery Health.

Now you can care for those who care for you.

Visit discovery.co.za to activate today!

EVENTS

•• FRANSCHHOEK BASTILLE FESTIVAL

The Cape’s very own French outpost gears up for a weekend extravaganza of gastronomic delights, exquisite wines and all things French heritage. Indulge in the abundant wine tastings, local fare, food stalls and live entertainment, or explore the lively streets of the village. 13-14 July; franschhoekbastille.co.za

•• SUNDAY SPECIAL BRUNCH

Explore Ghanaian gastronomy at AfrikMe Aduane’s Sunday Special Brunch. The buffet features dishes such as waakye and banku with tilapia, kelewele, okro soup, fufu and many more. Every Sunday, 11am-4pm. Abidjan; eventbrite.com

•• LES ELLES DES JEUX EXHIBITION

Women and the Olympic Games have long had

contradictory and even hostile destinies. De facto excluded from the Olympic movement during its modern renaissance at the end of the 19th century, sportswomen took decades to acquire, little by little, their rightful place in sport in general and more particularly in the Olympic movement. The exhibition measures the spectacular path travelled over more than 130 years, from the virtual exclusion of women to the fight for parity. Free admission. From 7 June - 7 August; institutfrancais-kinshasa.org

•• LADLES OF LOVE

MANDELA DAY

Break a world record with other volunteers and

Looking for things to do after landing at one of SAA or our codeshare partners’ destinations? Consider one of these events.

create a better world for our children. Your ticket cost is a donation and will provide 40 healthy meals to children in need. Your 67 minutes of volunteering will be spent making, creating, crafting or packing items to help children grow.

18 July; ladlesoflove.org. za/mandela-day-2024

••

POLOCROSSE WORLD CUP

Get ready for non-stop polocrosse action at Durban Shongweni Club hosting the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup. Eight top polocrosse-playing countries compete to win the World Cup. Beyond the polocrosse, there will be lots of family-friendly activities such as live entertainment and music, food and beverage vendors, and pop-ups. 19-28 July; polocrosseworldcup2024.com

•• PUMPING LEGS FOR WATER

The Pumping Legs for Water event began more than 10 years ago after Zimbabwe received meagre rains and there was a desperate need for water sources for the wildlife in Hwange National Park. Every year after that, more than 100 mountain bikers from all over the country and the world come together in Hwange, and ride for two days in order

to raise funds to develop and maintain the pumps and waterholes in the park.While not a race, the casual riding is still a test of endurance. 25-28 July; wezmat.org

•• B-WELL AROUND THE POT

Gear up for South Africa’s premier gravel cycling event in the charming town of Swellendam. The B-well Around the Pot promises an exhilarating and demanding ride for cyclists of all abilities. Riders will traverse some of the Overberg’s most stunning landscapes and the race is now an official seeding event for the 2025 Cape Town Cycle Tour. 2627 July; aroundthepot.co.za

•• MZANSI BALLET’S NEIL DIAMOND

Mzansi Ballet presents The Neil Diamond Show, a ballet set to the melodies of Neil Diamond. The ballet is a mesmerising journey through light, colour, and the mystique of treasured jewels. 31 July-1 September; pietertoerien.co.za

••

HAMLET

The duo from Abrahamse &

SOURCES: supplied; eventbrite.com; webtickets.co.za; quicket.co.za

Meyer Productions present their thrilling take on Shakespeare’s greatest play, Hamlet. They bring their trademark innovation and finesse to this most haunting of plays. With spectacular designs, this breath-taking production promises to be a must see for learners, educators, and lovers of Shakespeare alike. From 18 July; artscape.co.za

•• PICK ’N PAY WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL DURBAN

Taste your way through some of SA’s top wine producers and discover a world of award-winning wines and delicious food at the Pick ’n Pay Wine & Food Festival at Chris Saunders Park in uMhlanga. 27 July; pnpwineandfoodfestival.co.za

•• THANDISWA MAZWAI’S SANKOFA LIVE

Award-winning musician Thandiswa returns to the Artscape Theatre with music from her new album Sankofa. Sankofa is a Twi word from the Akan people of Ghana. It means to “go back and fetch what has been left behind”. In our journeys, we may lose our sense of self, our history, and our will to fight.We may lose language or ways of being. Sankofa invites us to go back

and fetch what has been lost so that we can return whole. Recorded in Johannesburg, Dakar and New York, Sankofa combines archival Xhosa music, jazz and west African music. The Sankofa live show will present this music alongside Thandiswa’s old classics. 20 July; artscape.co.za

•• SPRING FLOWERS

South Africa boasts the Cape Floral Kingdom, a plant paradise with 9 600 unique species. When spring kicks in from August to September, the Western and Northern Cape regions come alive with a vibrant carpet of flowers, especially on the Cape West Coast. Keep an eye on the weather – it is nature’s cue for this colourful show. Drive up the West Coast Road and then the N7 to view the flowers. August/September

•• HONEY BEE EXPO 2024

The Honey Bee Expo takes place in the Valley of 1000 Hills. Visitors will be able to buy beekeeping equipment, wax products, gifts, beefriendly plants, bee products, honey tastings. 3 August; webtickets.co.za

•• TOTALSPORTS WOMEN’S RACE

In celebration of Women’s Month, women run the streets of Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban. 5km and 10km routes. 4 August, depending on the city, totalsportswomensrace.co.za

•• KINGDOM WORLD TOUR 2024, HARARE

Kingdom Tour 2024 with Maverick City Music and Kirk Franklin is coming to Africa, Europe and Asia for unforgettable experiences and to worship like never before. Tour starts on 8 July in Cape Town, and SAA and codeshare destinations Johannesburg, Harare, Lusaka, Nairobi, and Mombasa. From July to August; kingdomworldtour.com

•• ABIDJAN INTERNATIONAL DANCE CAMP FEST

The festival is about learning, sharing and discovering the real identity and history of African dance, starting with traditional dance all the way to street dance, which has evolved over time. 22-31 August; eventbrite.com

•• THE SOIL: REIMAGINED TOUR

23 August; sowetotheatre.com

•• UMHLANGA FOOD AND MUSIC FESTIVAL

Enjoy a day for the whole family filled with good food, a great variety of drinks and even better music.Visitors can expect live music, craft beer, and artisanal food stalls. 25 August; webtickets.co.za

•• FORT NOTTINGHAM HIGHLAND GATHERING

Inspired by the world famous Braemar Gathering, the Fort Nottingham Highland Gathering in the KZN Midlands is typically a day of nostalgia, heritage and ancient tradition. All the rousing spectacle, athletic prowess and hauntingly beautiful music will be celebrated in abundance, with a contemporary family-friendly local twist. 24 August; quicket.co.za

Founded in 2004, The Soil is a dynamic South African acapella group from Soweto. In 2016, The Soil took a seven-year long hiatus to focus on their individual spiritually filled journeys that have been lauded by many as the reason why this brand new album The Soil: Reimagined is so beautifully crafted.

SAFE FOR RAIL, SAFE FOR PEOPLE

In this interview with the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) Chairperson, Nompumelelo Ekeke, we find out more about the role and impact of this regulatory body.

How does the RSR promote safety within the railway environment, both domestically and beyond South African borders?

We oversee and promote safe railway operations and our role is regulated by the South African Railway Safety Act and other legislation (e.g. the National Rail Policy White Paper of 2022). This regulatory framework guides us and gives us the mandate in terms of our role within the railway sector locally. We have different categories of operators, starting from the smallest ones to the larger ones such as PRASA, Transnet and Gautrain. We also play a critical role within the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC), facilitating support and promoting harmonisation of railway safety

management standards. We do that through collaborations.

One of our biggest stakeholders is the Southern African Railways Association (SARA). So far, the RSR facilitated the harmonisation of 10 railway safety management standards. These standards have been adopted by the SARA board as the SARA service standards. We play a critical role locally and within the SADC region in making sure that everyone who operates within our railway infrastructure does so in a safe manner. Safe for the infrastructure, and safe for the people.

How does the RSR deal with theft and vandalism of SA’s railways?

Theft and vandalism are huge problems within South Africa’s railways. Criminals have moved from

breaking windows at train stations and ablution facilities to stealing and damaging infrastructure.

To address this, the RSR have engaged operators. We make sure their security plans are in place, that their security plans are being implemented within the set timeframes, that operators have the necessary financial and human resources and the necessary capacity to implement their security plans. We need to ensure that theft and vandalism do not impact safety.

Furthermore, our intention is not simply to report vandalism or malfunctioning signaling. If these issues persist – resulting in the closure of this line or the inability to operate in this corridor – it would not serve the country's best interests. Instead,

we take a proactive role and engage with the operators prior and look at their security plans and determine how to move forward together. We do not only want to be seen as people with a stick handing out penalties or prohibition notices. This way safety is ensured, while theft and vandalism are being taken care of. The RSR board has also engaged the South African Police Services (SAPS). A senior SAPS member sits on the RSR board, and from time to time we receive guidance on how to assist operators with theft and vandalism.

How do you view the importance of third-party/private-sector access to SA’s rail infrastructure?

Rail plays an important role in supporting productivity, but also in sustaining the country’s economy. Everything goes through rail. But we must also consider the challenges we have, including transport infrastructure challenges, within the country. We, as South Africa and as Africa as a whole, need to reach a level where our transport infrastructure and operations are efficient and effective. We cannot achieve this on our own. We need support from the private sector, which is why third-party access is essential for rail operations. For South Africa to cement its position as the flight and logistics leader within SADC and within Africa, rail has to be the preferred mode of transport. This can only happen through support from the private sector. The private sector (third-party access) not only brings together people who can operate our railways, but also brings much-needed funding. The private sector also brings expertise, so collaboration is very critical for the acceleration of the economic reconstruction and recovery plan in the growth of the economy.

What role does the Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) play?

The infrastructure manager plays a very critical role in moving freight from road to rail. Firstly, they have to maximise the use of the network. This is linked to third-party access. Secondly, they must increase the network’s density. The TRIM must also generate revenue through access fees that will fund network maintenance, rehabilitation, and expansion.

The RSR conducted assessments of the network on a few corridors and it’s clear that rehabilitation is needed. Expansion will happen once we start

solidifying partnerships with the private sector. TRIM will also focus on protecting and restoring the railway network capacity for commercially viable volumes. It’s important that Transnet favours commercially viable volumes – the tonnages that they ferry on their lines have to increase because that is what determines the growth of the economy and productivity. That has to be done within the prescripts of the Act, the guidelines of the requirements, and the safety measures and standards.

This is also guided by the National Rail Policy, which has introduced infrastructural changes for Transnet. Going forward, this infrastructure manager will be regulated by what will soon be known as the Transport Economic Regulator. This regulator will set and regulate pricing of this access,

“I AM VERY PASSIONATE ABOUT GENDER ISSUES AND HOW WE CAN ASSIST IN BREAKING THE BARRIERS.

input from industry players, academia, and our operators. This is not our document alone. We need the industry to participate, hence we are also engaging with different operators within the industry.

However, we should still ensure that the operators manage to do their business in a safe manner, and we should still oversee and enforce compliance as we are mandated by the regulations. There’s still a lot to consider but it’s a very critical and pivotal document.

The RSR board has also started board-to-board engagements, especially for the major operators (e.g. Transnet, PRASA, Gautrain). It’s important that the boards of the operators have the necessary appreciation of some of the tools that they must approve from their side.

What is the RSR’s role in advancing rail safety in SADC countries?

The RSR has outreach initiatives. One of these is sending our RSR team of engineers and technicians to different countries within the SADC (Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe and eSwatini) to have meetings with stakeholders to make sure they engage in terms of the safety standards and harmonisation of these standards.

What is even more critical is the International Rail Safety Council. They have an annual conference, and we make sure that we encourage SADC countries to participate in that event, during which we benchmark our standards and see the latest technology that we need to implement within the rail system.

as well as deal with compliance issues, penalties and dispute resolution.

Elaborate on the Safety Management System (SMS) review that is underway.

RSR has published some requirements that we want to incorporate. The SMS determination is pivotal in consolidating the safety permit application requirements because that is where we focus on operator compliance. Over and above that, the SMS determination clearly defines the requirements for the systematic management of railway safety across all our operators and systems.

As this is a new document, there may be gaps here and there. Our approach is participatory, and so the document has been published and has been shared for comments and

How does the RSR address gender issues?

We need to start looking at challenges that relate to gender within the railway sector. Making sure that senior positions are accessible, but also that women within rail are capacitated. Women within rail are faced with different challenges, from train drivers to female passengers.

As the RSR, we are at the stage where we’re trying to engage industry operators to see how we can support each other and how we can start having these conversations. Rail is so technical so most of the time we talk about the engineering part, the signaling, and all those things, but there’s also a human aspect. From our perspective, we need to promote gender sensitivity within rail.

BREAKING BOUNDARIES

The Inspirational Leadership of Charmaine Mabuza, launching ITHUBA into new African Markets

At the forefront of an exciting expansion, Charmaine Mabuza, CEO of ITHUBA, has been the driving force behind the launch of the Uganda National Lottery on 1 June 2024, with Tanzania set to follow in 2025. Her forward-thinking vision and creative strategies have propelled ITHUBA into new markets, showcasing her commitment to growth and excellence in the African lottery sector.

Since ITHUBA was granted the license to operate the South African National Lottery in 2015, Charmaine Mabuza has transformed the lottery sector with her unparalleled innovation, commitment and excellence. Under her leadership, ITHUBA became the ﬁrst woman-led and black woman-led National Lottery Operator in South Africa, setting new standards and breaking barriers in the industry.

Charmaine Mabuza’s innovative approach is exempliﬁed by her commitment to leverage technology to enhance the National Lottery.

In 2017, ITHUBA introduced a fully digitised draw show, a groundbreaking initiative that proved instrumental in sustaining ticket sales and conducting draws seamlessly during the COVID-19 lockdowns, at a time when numerous lotteries around the world had to halt operations entirely. In 2018, ITHUBA launched the ﬁrst South African National Lottery Mobile App, revolutionising the manner in which National Lottery games are played and accessed, further solidifying ITHUBA’s reputation as a pioneer in technological advancement within the African Lottery sector.

ITHUBA’s strategic partnership with several leading South African banking institutions has set it apart as one of the only Lotteries worldwide that sells National Lottery tickets on banking platforms. This unique approach not only increases accessibility for participants, but also enhances convenience and security, further establishing ITHUBA’s reputation for innovative, customer-centric solutions in the Lottery industry.

ITHUBA’s expansion into Uganda and Tanzania is a testament to Mabuza strategic vision and successful track record. Reﬂecting on the recent partnership with Tanzania, Mabuza expressed her pride in ITHUBA’s tailored solutions for the African market. She emphasised the company’s commitment to delivering large jackpots and innovative games that resonate with participants.

With Charmaine Mabuza at the helm, ITHUBA is set to continue its mission of empowering communities, driving innovation, and setting new benchmarks in the African lottery sector. As the company expands its footprint across the continent, Mabuza’s leadership stands as a tribute to resilience, vision, and a deep commitment to creating meaningful impact in the communities it serves.

The Connected Travell

APPLE IPAD AIR M2

Tech journalist and frequent traveller NAFISA AKABOR looks at new tech you can use on your travels.

Get trendy while travelling with the new Osmo Pocket 3, iPad Air, and Samsonite Upscape spinners. Plus check out the Galaxy A55 with eSIM and the Mophie 3-in-1 travel charger.

Apple’s new 11-inch iPad Air with M2 chip is suited for working from anywhere while travelling. It has AI features for gaming, 12MP front and rear cameras with Centre Stage for video calls, and shoots 4K videos. It supports the Apple Pencil, 5G and eSIM. It is available in blue, pink, gold and grey. Price: From R13 999.

DJI OSMO POCKET 3 CREATOR COMBO

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is the perfect palm-sized travel gadget. It has a 2-inch rotating touchscreen that shoots in 4K with a built-in stabilisation. It shoots stills and has Active Track for centre framing for both horizontal and vertical shots. The creator combo includes a mic, carry case, mini tripod, lters and more. Price: R16 999.

SAMSONITE UPSCAPE 55CM SPINNER

Samsonite’s Upscape 55cm spinner will suit any techsavvy traveller, thanks to its integrated USB-C and A ports.You can link a powerbank from the inside and charge from the outside while on the move. This hard-shell cabin trolley holds up to 45L, has washable interiors, 360° wheels and a built-in TSA combination lock. Price: R4 899.

MOPHIE 3-IN-1 TRAVEL CHARGER

The Mophie 3-in-1 travel charger with MagSafe is made for the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods that all support wireless charging. Using one cable, it charges three devices simultaneously. It folds compactly to t into a travel case, including the USB-C cable and wall plug. It weighs a mere 281g, making it perfect for hand luggage. Price: R3 499

WANDERING IN WINDHOEK

SAMSUNG GALAXY A55 5G

The Samsung Galaxy A55 is the rst budget Android with eSIM support, making it ideal for travellers.You can load multiple eSIM pro les for low data costs while abroad and have two networks active. The A55 has a 6.6inch display, NFC for Tap to Pay, a 50MP triple rear camera, 1TB expandable storage and a 5000mAh battery. Price: R10 999.

With 13 ﬂights a week on SAA between Johannesburg and Windhoek, Namibia should be on your bucket list. It is centrally located for road trips and safaris, especially if you’re into o -the-beaten-path adventures. For a Windhoek getaway, visit its most iconic landmark, the Christuskirche German church, the Independence Memorial Museum with a stop for a drink at the Balcony of Love, and the botanical gardens. Don’t pass up on a Katutura township tour, lunch with gira es at Voigtland Guesthouse, or a cooking class. Also check out Am Weinberg for hipster co ee shops, bakeries, and galleries. If your adventure continues, you will be spoilt for choice with these destinations: Sossusvlei for sand dunes in the Namib Desert, Etosha National Park for a safari, the Skeleton Coast for shipwrecks, and the Caprivi for water-based safaris. The seaside holiday town of Swakopmund is also a must, with its German heritage that makes for a great stopover at these destinations.

“If you know, you know” would best describe the Tanqua Kuru Bicycle Race. This boutique event is held over two days in the Tankwa Karoo National Park and is aimed at gravel bikes, which are basically road bicycles with beefier frames and tyres ideally suited to covering the 190odd kilometres of gravel roads during Tanqua Kuru’s two days.

The Tank in Tankwa

We took the new GWM Tank on a road trip to the Tankwa Karoo to do the unique Tanqua Kuru Bicycle Race.

with a voracious appetite for car rubber. You’re definitely going to need the right car for it to be a stress-free road trip… a perfect test then for the much-talked-about new GWM Tank.

And if you know this part of South Africa, you’ll also know that getting there presents its own challenge. The event is based at the Tankwa Tented Camp & Lodge, about halfway between Ceres and Calvinia on the notorious R355 - the longest stretch of uninterrupted gravel road in South Africa

With the likes of the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Everest firmly in its sights, the Tank has grabbed a lot of attention by offering proper axle-twisting 4x4 ability, along with progressive tech and high spec for a very attractive price. It borders on the too-good-to-be-true side of things with pricing that starts at R725 950 for the 2.0-litre turbo petrol, up to R851 950 for the “Super Luxury” Hybrid. Sure, that’s still a fair amount of money, but on the surface you appear to be getting way more bang for your buck than

WORDS Steve Smith

its competitors are offering. Time to scratch the surface.

Our trip up the N1 from Cape Town saw us hook a left on the R44 through Wellington and over Bainskloof Pass, before joining the R46 through Ceres, and then bearing left again onto the fearsome gravel R355. It was a journey that would take in some national road cruising, some twisty tarred passes, and of course that tyre-eating rock and shale gravel.

Our test vehicle was the top-spec Tank 300 hybrid whose powertrain offers a combined 255kW and 648Nm through a nine-speed auto. That power, along with interior amenities that included dual 12.3-inch LCD screens, a 9-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and electrically adjustable seats with massaging functionality that made the highways a swift but relaxing exercise.

Once we hit the R355 though, it was time for concentration levels at 110% and a speed reduction to 70-90 km/h. The Tank came shod with 265 / 60 R 18 Michelins that are great all-round performers, but could be a little under-gunned when facing the R355’s razor-sharp shale. As it turned out, we needn’t have worried; some disciplined adherence to the advised sub-90km/h speed limit, eagle eyes on the road surface, and the Tank’s supple suspension led to a trouble-free ride.

I’d love to tell you that the bike race was equally trouble free, but unfortunately without the benefits of the Tank’s satnav, we managed to miss a turn on day 1 and, what should have been a 130km ride turned into 145km. That may not seem like too much extra mileage, but when you factor in the mighty Gannaga Pass, trust me, you feel every extra metre in your legs. The pass starts a lot earlier than its official 6km length, with a draggy four kilometre uphill approach before you start the climb proper. From there on, the road gets progressively steeper, windier, and rockier, and it’s a good 90 minutes of slow pedalling before you finally get to Gannaga Lodge on the escarpment above. Day 2 was a lot easier on the legs with a flatter 67km route that took us through a beautiful pan and two delightfully quirky, fully-stocked rest stops that have become a signature of the Tanqua Kuru Bicycle Race.

After two days of hard, bone-rattling cycling, the fourhour drive back to Cape Town in the Tank was a cosseted and much-welcomed respite. It was also a time to reflect on this newcomer’s abilities. After over 600km spent with the GWM Tank, and much of it over some challenging terrain, the car impressed at every turn.Yes, its boxy, retro good looks may turn plenty of heads, but it is its abilities both on and off-road that really made an impact.

THE GWM TANK 300 RANGE

This includes a 7-year /

Discover even more exciting travel content on our Sawubona digital platforms, and download the digital version. Visit saasawubona.com

#SAWUBONAWORLD

Share your travel photos on social media with the hashtag #SawubonaWorld.

We love having conversations with our loyal readers on Twitter. Join the conversation by following @sawubonaSAA, or tag us with #SawubonaWorld and let us know which articles you enjoyed reading the most – and whether any have inspired your travels!

FOLLOW SAWUBONA ON SOCIAL MEDIA

That is not only the American drama series I watched on my way from Bangkok to Singapore on my last international ight, but also happens to be the number of ights I have taken since the beginning of this year. Already. That is a lot of chicken, beef and vegetarian dishes in aisle, middle and window seats.

There is something magical about being a frequent yer, as this mode allows me to be transported to both near and far-o lands. Growing up in a township, my childhood friends and I would look overhead at every ying plane and wish the captain would make an unscheduled lay-over at our dusty soccer pitch, just so we could hitch a ride to absolutely anywhere.

Ups & downs of flying

But before arriving at far- ung cities like Pattaya in Thailand and Brazil’s São Paulo, I get to disconnect from life’s mundane tasks while in the air. It is not often that I have no phone connectivity, giving me much-needed reprieve from emails, calls and ‘forwarded many times’ WhatsApp chain messages about the world ending again. Well, that was before airlines messed up my excuse for not getting back to people by installing in- ight Wi-Fi. What I appreciate the most about being airborne is that it has a orded me some incredible experiences that I will cherish forever. These range from the task of savouring rare pear wine on a vineyard in Ljubljana, helping Chilean window cleaner Carlos scrub down a few (interior) panes at South America’s tallest building – the Gran Torre Costanera, and spending a wonderful night at the only 4-star hotel in a township, the Spade Boutique Hotel in Khayelitsha, Cape Town.

CONGRATS ON 90 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

from Johannesburg to Bilbao, and I now know what it means to have the travel bug bite you. I cannot imagine a life without regular visits to airport curio shops, queuing at visa centres or even just Googling “what to do near me” while travelling. I have fallen in love so much with ying that I even cycle to OR Tambo International Airport from my house just to see the planes land and take o ! Surely there must be therapy for this type of behaviour? Besides being a passion, ying has also taught me some valuable lessons, and one of them is the deep appreciation of time. Nothing is a constant reminder of how little time we have in life like a missed ight.

SBU MKWANAZI talks about the joys of ﬂying frequently, and that one time he met Guadalupe the Chihuahua.

On the other hand, short layovers have taught me that you must use every single minute you have, or you lose out on opportunities right in front of you. That is why I try to make sure all my ights have connecting ights that allow me to leave the airport, even if it is only for an hour. This approach has gifted me with visits to Singapore, Cairo, Nairobi, Addis Ababa and others.

One of the major reasons I can never y enough is because I never know who I will meet (do not let my wife see this column!). From stepping into the airport and security guards giving me the lay of the land, to getting dinner recommendations from those scanning boarding passes, to air crew who entertain my curiosity and show me their sleeping quarters on the plane, people make it bliss.

It has been 11 years since my rst international ight

There was that one time when I ew from Bilbao to Barcelona and the passenger next to me in seat 3B was a Chihuahua named Guadalupe, and she is proof enough that ying really is for anyone and everyone.