News Bulletin of 11 October 2026, 12pm

South African-born judge Navi Pillay has been awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. This is for her work promoting international law and holding those responsible for war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity. Born in Durban during apartheid, Pillay broke barriers as a lawyer and legal pioneer. Throughout her career, she has championed human rights and worked towards a world where those responsible for serious crimes are held accountable. She becomes the fifth South African to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, following Albert Luthuli in 1960, Archbishop Desmond Tutu in 1984, and Nelson Mandela and F.W. de Klerk, who shared the prize in 1993.
This is a proud moment for South Africa and a wonderful recognition of a lifetime dedicated to justice and human dignity. Pillay's achievement shows how courage and determination can help challenge injustice and make a lasting difference around the world.

Glenvista's Mbali Dyamle has earned a place among the top 10 finalists in the 2026 Championship Boerewors Competition, despite having no previous experience making boerewors.The 25-year-old beauty therapy student entered after seeing an advert at a Checkers store. Determined to succeed, she taught herself the basics by researching ingredients, experimenting with flavours, watching videos and seeking advice from experienced makers. Mbali focused on using quality ingredients, being patient and creating a balanced flavour where seasoning did not overpower the meat.

South African swimming star Pieter Coetze, 22, has broken the men’s 50m backstroke world record in a short-course pool. The swimmer clocked an incredible 22.09 seconds in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on October 9. He went on to win all three backstroke events at the competition. After missing the Olympic qualifying time five times, Coetze kept pushing, qualifying for the Tokyo Olympics at just 16 with the support of his family and coach Rocco Meiring at TuksSwimming.
Coetze’s journey is a powerful reminder that setbacks don’t have to stop a dream. From a schoolboy who refused to give up to a world-record holder, his achievement celebrates determination, family support and South African sporting excellence.