News Bulletin of 31 October 2025, 2pm

In Bertrams, Johannesburg, Yumna Beukes is turning illegal dumping spots into vibrant pavement gardens.
The 72-year-old community activist has transformed 32 areas so far, inspiring locals to help dig, clean, and maintain the spaces.
Her work goes beyond beautification, focusing on food security through gardens at schools, old age homes, and community centres.
She partners with groups like KiCK to turn food waste into compost and has donated produce to soup kitchens and the Joburg Zoo.
Beukes’ efforts are a testament to grassroots action, showing how small initiatives can bring hope, pride, and greenery to city neighbourhoods.

A portrait of a Cape Muslim woman by South African artist Irma Stern has sold for R21.7 million at auction.
The painting, which had been in private hands for more than 50 years, was sold via telephone bidding at Strauss & Co’s International Sale on October 28.
The sale sets a new record for the highest price paid for a Stern portrait of a female sitter on the African continent and shows strong international demand for her work.
Stern, born in 1894, studied in Germany before returning to Cape Town and became known for capturing South African life in bold, expressive portraits and still lifes.
Experts say the auction underlines her enduring legacy and the global appeal of South African cultural heritage.

The 23rd Sauti za Busara music festival will take place in Stone Town, Zanzibar, from 5 to 8 February 2026.
The four-day event will feature artists from over 20 countries, with 100% live performances celebrating African music and culture.
Malian icon Salif Keita will make his festival debut, performing his mix of traditional mandingue rhythms and contemporary sounds.
Other performers include artists from Tanzania, South Africa, Senegal, Nigeria, and Colombia, promoting cross-cultural collaboration.
Organisers say the extended schedule will create more performance opportunities, support local businesses, and attract visitors to Zanzibar.