News Bulletin of 23 February 2026, 1pm

Sankofa Heritage Festival to Celebrate Thandiswa Mazwai’s Musical Legacy
The Sankofa Heritage Festival will celebrate the career and influence of acclaimed musician Thandiswa Mazwai, taking place on 28 February 2026 at the Big Top Arena at Carnival City in Johannesburg.
Mazwai’s journey in music spans decades, from her early rise with Bongo Maffin to her powerful and acclaimed solo projects that have cemented her status as one of South Africa’s most respected voices.
Positioned as more than just a concert, the artist-led festival centres music, freedom and community.
Mazwai will be joined by fellow artists Msaki and Somi, with the trio sharing their thoughts ahead of the celebration.
She says the fesitival is about community
Sandton and Gauteng
Oceans 8 Charity Swim Returns to Durban
The Oceans 8 Charity Swim is set to return to Vetch’s Beach, Durban, from 23–25 May 2026, bringing together swimmers of all levels, schools, sponsors, and 14 local charities.
Since its launch, the event has raised over R3 million, supporting 23 charities across KwaZulu-Natal. Courses range from 1 and 4 miles for beginners to 8 and 16 miles for experienced swimmers. Schools can participate in the 1 mile swim, earning community service hours and trophies.
Volunteers, local businesses, and safety teams support the event, which also prioritises environmental responsibility, minimising single-use plastics and using recycled materials.
South Africa
Boulders Beach Tops Three Global Lists

Boulders Beach in Cape Town, South Africa, has been recognised as one of the world’s best beaches, topping three categories in the Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best. Millions of traveller reviews helped Boulders earn top spots in the ‘One of a Kind’ Beaches, ‘Best African’ Beaches, and ‘World’s Best’ Beaches categories.
The beach, famous for its African penguins, sheltered coves, and boardwalks, outperformed destinations such as Pig Beach in the Bahamas, Wai’anapanapa State Park in Hawaii, and Anse Source D’Argent in Seychelles. Nearby Camps Bay also featured, ranking 12th among Africa’s best beaches.
South Africa
Financial Indicators
Your financial indicators for this hour:

The Rand is trading at 16.03 to the US Dollar, 21.60 to the British Pound, and 18.86 to the Euro.

Gold is trading at 5,147.47 dollars a fine ounce, Brent Crude Oil is at 71.76 per barrel, and a Bitcoin will set you back 66,287.00.
New Orleans Makes Mardi Gras Greener with Biodegradable “Throws”
New Orleans is reducing the environmental impact of Mardi Gras by replacing plastic beads and trinkets with biodegradable and culturally-inspired “throws”. The city generates 1,123 tons of parade waste yearly, which can clog storm drains and worsen flooding risks.
Nonprofits like Grounds Krewe and the Recycle Dat coalition, along with volunteers, assemble burlap sacks of Jambalaya spices, native flower seeds, and plant-based glitter. Scientists from the University of Louisiana have also developed algae and sugarcane-based beads that break down naturally and encourage environmental awareness.
The initiative not only cuts waste and protects the city’s drainage but also brings back the fun by offering interesting, collectible items instead of cheap plastic.
Local: 106 words (36%), National: 187 words (64%), International: 0 words (0%)