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Record-High Ocean Temperatures Raise Alarm for South Africa Ahead of SummerGlobal ocean temperatures have climbed to unp...
25/08/2026

Record-High Ocean Temperatures Raise Alarm for South Africa Ahead of Summer

Global ocean temperatures have climbed to unprecedented levels, raising fresh concerns about what unusually warm seas could mean as the Southern Hemisphere heads towards its warmest months.

The Copernicus Climate Change Service confirmed that the daily average sea surface temperature across the extra-polar global ocean reached **21.1°C on 22 August 2026**, surpassing the previous record of 21.09°C set in March 2024. Scientists say the latest milestone highlights the exceptional amount of heat being stored in the world's oceans. ([Copernicus Climate Service][1])

The development is particularly concerning for Southern Hemisphere countries such as South Africa, where spring and summer are approaching.

# # South Africa could feel the effects

Warm oceans can influence weather systems by providing additional heat and moisture to the atmosphere. However, scientists caution that record ocean temperatures do not automatically mean that every location will experience the same weather extremes.

For South Africa, one of the biggest concerns is the combination of higher temperatures and the developing **El Niño** climate pattern.

The World Meteorological Organization's seasonal outlook has indicated an increased likelihood of above-normal temperatures across southern Africa, while unusually warm sea surface temperatures are also expected across large sections of the world's oceans. ([World Meteorological Organization][2])

El Niño has historically been associated with hotter and, in many parts of southern Africa, potentially drier summer conditions. This could increase pressure on water resources, agriculture and communities already vulnerable to extreme heat.

Prolonged hot and dry spells can also increase the risk of veld fires, crop stress and heat-related health problems.

# # Marine life and fisheries also at risk

The danger is not limited to conditions on land.

Periods of unusually high ocean temperatures can develop into marine heatwaves, placing stress on fish, seabirds and other marine species. South Africa's Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has previously highlighted marine heatwaves as an emerging climate risk.

Research off the Cape Peninsula found that marine heatwaves can affect biodiversity and cold-water species, while government research has also documented changes in the distribution of some marine species as ocean conditions shift. ([Forestry and Fisheries Department][3])

That matters for a country where thousands of livelihoods depend directly and indirectly on fisheries and healthy coastal ecosystems.

Researchers monitoring South Africa's Prince Edward Islands have also observed warmer waters increasingly reaching ecosystems normally dominated by colder conditions, prompting warnings that changing ocean temperatures could disrupt marine biodiversity. ([Forestry and Fisheries Department][4])

# # Why scientists are watching closely

The latest ocean record comes after months of extraordinary warmth.

July 2026 recorded an average extra-polar sea surface temperature of **20.96°C**, the highest July figure in the Copernicus dataset. By the end of that month, daily temperatures were already approaching the previous all-time record. ([Copernicus Climate Service][5])

Scientists say human-driven climate change remains the long-term force behind rising ocean temperatures, while natural climate patterns such as El Niño can temporarily push temperatures even higher.

For South Africa, the months ahead will therefore be watched closely.

While it is still too early to determine exactly how individual weather events will unfold, record ocean warmth, strengthening El Niño conditions and forecasts for above-normal temperatures mean households, farmers, municipalities and coastal industries may need to prepare for another challenging warm season.

Reiger Park Murder Accused Claims Police Used Brutal Methods After Arrest**Reagan Cheslin Collis**, one of the men accus...
25/08/2026

Reiger Park Murder Accused Claims Police Used Brutal Methods After Arrest

**Reagan Cheslin Collis**, one of the men accused of killing four people in Reiger Park, Ekurhuleni, has denied involvement in the deadly shooting and alleged that he was assaulted by police following his arrest.

The 23-year-old is facing four counts of murder, one count of attempted murder, two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances and firearm-related charges. He is accused alongside Jamal Meyer, 24, and Alvino Crawford, 27, in connection with the deadly 7 August shooting. ([The Citizen][1])

The victims were civilians **Jaydin Magerman and Roleen Lessing**, as well as SAPS Anti-Gang Unit constables **Thapelo Tlomatsane and Sphiwe Sibeko**.

# # Collis alleges police assaulted him

Through his lawyer, Samkele Kuzani, Collis has claimed that he was assaulted while in police custody. According to reports from proceedings in the Boksburg Magistrate's Court, the accused told his legal team that he feared he may have suffered internal injuries following the alleged assault. ([The Citizen][1])

Collis has strongly denied being responsible for the four deaths, while allegations have emerged that force was used against him after he was taken into custody.

He is not the only accused to make such claims.

Meyer previously alleged that he suffered lacerations and bruising and complained about severe chest pain after his arrest. Crawford also alleged that he sustained injuries during his detention, including lacerations to his cheek and intense pain. Their lawyer has indicated that the allegations surrounding the treatment of all three men would form part of their court proceedings. ([The Citizen][1])

The claims have not been proven, and no finding has been made that police officers assaulted the accused.

Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale said authorities would wait for medical assessments and J88 reports before determining the way forward. She indicated that the allegations could ultimately be referred to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate, depending on the medical findings. ([The Citizen][1])

# # CCTV footage raises questions

The case has attracted further attention after CCTV footage emerged that reportedly raised questions about the state's version of events.

Police have identified Collis as the alleged gunman. However, footage seen by IOL and later reported on by eNCA has been cited by his family and other sources as potentially supporting his denial. According to reports, the footage allegedly shows a man said to be Collis at his grandmother's property around the time of the shooting, while another person is alleged to have opened fire. ([IOL][2])

Those claims have not yet been tested in court, and police have maintained that Collis has a case to answer.

# # State set to oppose bail

Collis, Meyer and Crawford were expected to appear together in the Boksburg Magistrate's Court for their formal bail applications, with the state indicating that it would oppose their release. ([The Citizen][1])

Police have also stressed that the investigation remains active and that additional arrests have not been ruled out.

The case is likely to remain closely watched as the court considers the evidence against the three accused, alongside their serious allegations about how they were treated after being taken into custody.

For now, Collis and his co-accused remain charged but are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

MacG Defends Sfiso Ndlovu After Drunk Music Pulse AppearancePodcast and Chill founder MacG has weighed in on the controv...
25/08/2026

MacG Defends Sfiso Ndlovu After Drunk Music Pulse Appearance

Podcast and Chill founder MacG has weighed in on the controversy surrounding **Sfiso Ndlovu’s recent Music Pulse appearance**, after viewers accused the podcaster of being intoxicated while recording the show.

Sfiso became the centre of an online debate after clips from *Music Pulse* circulated on social media. In the footage, he appeared to struggle with his delivery while passionately discussing South African musicians and the local entertainment industry. Some viewers believed his speech suggested he had consumed too much alcohol during the recording. ([Briefly][1])

The incident quickly became a talking point, with critics questioning whether the behaviour was acceptable in a professional environment.

# # MacG weighs in on Sfiso controversy

MacG, Sol Phenduka and the Ghost Lady have now addressed the backlash, with the Podcast and Chill team reportedly making it clear that **Sfiso is not about to lose his job over the incident**. Their reaction came after growing calls from some social media users for the network to take action against the Music Pulse personality. ([Briefly][2])

The conversation also reportedly drew comparisons with former personalities who have left the Podcast and Chill Network, including Seemah, as viewers questioned whether Sfiso would face similar consequences. However, MacG and his co-hosts appeared to push back against suggestions that his employment was in danger. ([Briefly][2])

The response may not come as a complete surprise to longtime followers of the network. Podcast and Chill has always incorporated drinking into its relaxed studio atmosphere, with the programme itself describing its format as a place to “chill” and regularly featuring alcohol-related banter during episodes. ([Radio South Africa][3])

# # Fans debate whether Sfiso should keep his job

Social media users remain divided over the situation.

Some argued that appearing visibly intoxicated while working could damage the professionalism of *Music Pulse*, particularly when hosts are expected to debate serious topics and clearly communicate their opinions.

Others defended Sfiso, pointing out that alcohol consumption has long been part of the Podcast and Chill Network’s on-camera culture. Some viewers argued that there was a difference between arriving at work intoxicated and drinking while recording in a studio where alcohol is already openly consumed. ([Briefly][1])

One reaction summed up the debate by suggesting Sfiso had become intoxicated while at work rather than arriving drunk. Another viewer questioned why he would be fired when alcohol is regularly associated with the network’s content, while others simply said they found the outspoken version of Sfiso entertaining. ([Briefly][1])

# # Sfiso’s Music Pulse comments spark controversy

The viral appearance was not only criticised because of Sfiso’s condition. His comments about South African musicians also attracted attention.

During the discussion, Sfiso spoke passionately about local artists and questioned the recognition some musicians receive. He also referenced Tyla and criticised the circumstances around artists joining her onstage at the SAMAs, a discussion that previously drew a response from singer Busiswa. ([Briefly][4])

For now, MacG’s response appears to settle at least one part of the debate: despite calls from some viewers for consequences, Sfiso’s position at the network does not appear to be under immediate threat.

The bigger conversation around professionalism, alcohol and what audiences expect from podcast personalities, however, looks far from over.

Amanda Seome Reveals Her Dating Deal-Breakers and What She Wants in a PartnerSouth African actress **Amanda Seome** has ...
25/08/2026

Amanda Seome Reveals Her Dating Deal-Breakers and What She Wants in a Partner

South African actress **Amanda Seome** has made it clear that when it comes to matters of the heart, she knows exactly what she will — and will not — tolerate.

The actress, who currently stars as **Pretty Hadebe in Mzansi Magic’s *Nyala O...***, recently opened up about relationships, revealing the qualities she values in a partner and some of the red flags that would quickly make her reconsider a romance. ([Sowetan][1])

# # # Amanda Seome draws a firm line at dishonesty

While Amanda’s character Pretty is dealing with complicated relationship problems on screen, the actress appears to have much firmer boundaries in her own life.

Speaking to *Sowetan*, Amanda revealed that **lying and cheating are major deal-breakers for her**. Loyalty is particularly important, and she believes both people in a relationship should be willing to give each other the same level of commitment. ([Sowetan][1])

Communication is another non-negotiable.

According to the actress, a relationship can lose its foundation when partners are unable to speak openly to one another. For Amanda, honesty, loyalty and healthy communication appear to form the basic requirements for building something meaningful and lasting. ([Sowetan][1])

# # # What Amanda wants in her ideal partner

The actress also shared some of the qualities she would look for in a man, and physical appearance surprisingly does not appear to be high on the list.

Amanda said spirituality is important to her. She would prefer someone who has a relationship with God and is spiritually aligned with her, or at the very least respects the spiritual journey she is currently on.

Respect is another major requirement.

Amanda also values someone who loves and maintains a healthy relationship with their family. She explained that physical appearance is not particularly important to her if a potential partner possesses the qualities she considers essential. ([Sowetan][1])

# # # Playing Pretty has offered some relationship lessons

Amanda’s comments come as viewers watch her portray Pretty in *Nyala O...*, where her character is caught in a complicated love triangle.

The actress admitted that she initially judged Pretty when she first encountered the character in the script, questioning why she remained in such a difficult relationship. As she explored Pretty’s background and emotional wounds, however, Amanda began to understand why the character makes certain choices. ([Sowetan][1])

The role has also reinforced an important lesson for Amanda: people should not put their lives on hold hoping that a partner will eventually change.

For the actress, choosing yourself does not mean being selfish. Instead, it means recognising when a relationship is demanding too much sacrifice and refusing to continuously excuse behaviour that causes unhappiness. ([Sowetan][1])

# # # Amanda Seome continues her rise on screen

Amanda’s profile has continued to grow following appearances in productions including *Shaka iLembe*. In *Nyala O...*, she plays Pretty, whose efforts to protect the people she loves — particularly her children — repeatedly place her at the centre of emotional conflict. ([Sowetan][1])

And there is more on the way.

Amanda revealed that she has **two additional productions in the pipeline**, including one that will allow her to step away from the girlfriend-and-wife roles audiences may associate her with and take on stunts and combat acting. ([Sowetan][1])

For now, however, her relationship standards have certainly caught attention: **no lies, no cheating, strong communication, respect, loyalty and spiritual compatibility.**

Amanda Seome clearly knows what she wants — and she is not afraid to set boundaries to protect it.

ANC Fumes After Helen Zille’s Campaign Team Is Spotted Filming at Manifesto LaunchThe battle for Johannesburg is heating...
25/08/2026

ANC Fumes After Helen Zille’s Campaign Team Is Spotted Filming at Manifesto Launch

The battle for Johannesburg is heating up ahead of South Africa’s 2026 local government elections, with the ANC taking aim at Helen Zille’s campaign after members of her social media team were spotted filming at the governing party’s manifesto launch.

The ANC launched its 2026 Local Government Elections Manifesto at Riverside in Diepsloot, Johannesburg, on Sunday, 23 August. The event formed part of the party’s campaign to convince voters that it has a plan to improve municipalities, with issues such as water, electricity, jobs and service delivery taking centre stage. ([ANC 1912][1])

However, attention has now shifted to what was happening behind the scenes.

According to reports, two members of Democratic Alliance Johannesburg mayoral candidate Helen Zille’s social media campaign team, Tami Jackson and Zeke Wareley, were spotted capturing content at the ANC gathering. Photographs from the event reportedly showed Wareley wearing an ANC T-shirt while the pair filmed proceedings. ([News24][2])

# # ANC reacts to Zille campaign team’s presence

The incident did not go down well with the ANC, with the party reportedly describing the move as a form of **“political espionage.”**

The strong reaction adds another layer to an increasingly competitive campaign in Johannesburg, where Zille is hoping to lead the DA back into control of the country’s biggest city.

The incident also comes as Zille’s campaign continues to place social media at the centre of its election strategy. Her team has regularly produced attention-grabbing online content highlighting Johannesburg’s service delivery problems, helping the veteran politician reach audiences beyond traditional political rallies.

Earlier this year, Zille’s campaign attracted widespread attention through videos filmed at damaged or neglected infrastructure around Johannesburg. The strategy has helped turn everyday municipal complaints into viral political content, with the DA hoping that frustration over service delivery will translate into votes.

The latest controversy suggests that the ANC is well aware of the role social media could play in shaping the election campaign.

# # Johannesburg election battle intensifies

Zille and the DA have made Johannesburg one of their major targets in the upcoming municipal elections. During the DA’s own manifesto launch earlier in August, Zille promised that qualified and competent officials would be appointed to key positions and argued that revenue collected from residents should be reinvested in essential services. ([SABC News][3])

The ANC, meanwhile, has acknowledged weaknesses in local government while insisting that progress has been made since its previous municipal election manifesto. Its new campaign seeks to convince voters that the party can improve governance and accelerate service delivery. ([ANC 1912][4])

With rival campaigns now watching each other closely — both on the ground and online — the contest for Johannesburg appears set to become even more intense.

Whether the appearance of Zille’s social media team at the ANC rally was simply political content gathering or something more calculated, the episode has already achieved one thing: it has given both parties another talking point in what is shaping up to be a fiercely contested election campaign.

Madlanga Puts Matlala’s Legal Defence Under Pressure as Technicality CrumblesVusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s appearance before ...
25/08/2026

Madlanga Puts Matlala’s Legal Defence Under Pressure as Technicality Crumbles

Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s appearance before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry took another dramatic turn as Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga pushed back against attempts by the businessman to avoid answering questions by invoking his constitutional right against self-incrimination.

Matlala, who is facing criminal charges linked to the controversial multimillion-rand SAPS tender awarded to his company Medicare24, has repeatedly maintained that answering certain questions before the commission could prejudice his criminal case. His legal team has relied heavily on Section 35 of the Constitution, which protects accused persons against being compelled to give self-incriminating evidence. ([Mail & Guardian][1])

But Justice Madlanga has made it clear that the constitutional protection cannot simply become a blanket shield against every question put to a witness.

The issue first came to a head in July, when Matlala’s lawyers sought to postpone his testimony until his criminal proceedings had progressed. Madlanga questioned why the commission could not deal with matters that had no direct bearing on the criminal case. The chairperson eventually postponed Matlala’s testimony to September 1 and ordered his legal team to submit a sworn statement. ([Sowetan][2])

When Matlala finally returned to the witness stand, the battle shifted from postponement to which questions he could legally refuse to answer.

During questioning, Matlala invoked his right against self-incrimination on matters including the R228-million SAPS contract, alleged payments to senior police officials and aspects of his relationships with people implicated in the broader investigation. ([Sunday Times][3])

The commission, however, continued to test the boundaries of that argument.

Madlanga’s approach has been clear: if a question genuinely risks exposing Matlala to criminal liability, his constitutional rights must be respected. But where a question does not have that connection, simply saying “I do not want to incriminate myself” may not be enough.

That distinction has placed Matlala and his legal team under increasing pressure as the inquiry attempts to establish how relationships between businessmen, police officials and alleged criminal networks may have operated.

The commission has already heard extensive testimony concerning Matlala’s alleged links to senior police figures and controversial businessmen. These remain allegations and contested evidence, and Matlala has denied wrongdoing in several areas.

On Monday, the commission also rejected another attempt by his legal team to postpone proceedings after Matlala’s lead counsel was reported to be ill. His lawyers cited difficulties consulting with him while he is incarcerated, but the commission proceeded with the testimony. ([EWN][4])

The unfolding confrontation has turned Matlala’s testimony into one of the closely watched moments of the Madlanga Commission. What began as a legal argument over constitutional protection has now become a test of exactly where the line lies between an accused person's right to remain silent and a commission's mandate to uncover information in the public interest.

And with Justice Madlanga continuing to press for answers, Matlala’s legal strategy is facing perhaps its toughest test yet.

*Image: Per-Anders Pettersson/Getty Images*

Throwback Clip of Young Track Star Leaves Mzansi Calling for Another Championship PerformanceA resurfaced athletics clip...
24/08/2026

Throwback Clip of Young Track Star Leaves Mzansi Calling for Another Championship Performance

A resurfaced athletics clip featuring a young girl tearing up the track has captured South Africans’ attention, with many viewers already hoping she can produce another memorable performance at this year’s championship.

The throwback footage, shared through Athletics South Africa’s social media platforms, shows the young athlete competing with remarkable determination and confidence for someone of her age.

What particularly impressed viewers was the way she attacked the race from the start and refused to slow down, showing the competitive spirit normally associated with athletes far beyond her years.

The clip quickly became another reminder of the impressive sporting talent developing at grassroots level across South Africa.

# # Mzansi impressed by young athlete

South Africans reacting to the footage were full of praise for the youngster, with some wondering how much she has developed since the original performance.

Others were already looking ahead, calling for her to return to the track and deliver another strong showing during this year’s competition.

Youth athletics competitions play an important role in identifying future stars before they reach senior level. Athletics South Africa’s Sub-Youth programme, for example, gives primary school athletes opportunities to compete in age groups including U7, U9, U11 and U13.

At the 2023 ASA Sub-Youth Inter-Provincial meeting in Secunda, young athletes from across the country competed in various track and field events, with several producing performances strong enough to set new national bests. Athletics South Africa described the competition as an important grassroots platform where young athletes receive an early taste of high-level competition. ([Athletics South Africa][1])

The organisation has continued placing emphasis on developing younger athletes and creating opportunities for children to participate in organised sport.

Earlier in 2026, Athletics South Africa also highlighted the importance of introducing children to athletics through its Kids’ Athletics Day programme, saying such initiatives can help inspire healthier lifestyles while building the next generation of athletes. ([Athletics South Africa][2])

# # South Africa’s young runners continue to shine

The excitement surrounding the resurfaced clip comes at a time when South Africa continues to produce promising young track and field athletes.

The 2026 ASA Age Group Championships in Germiston delivered several national records across youth and junior divisions, demonstrating just how competitive the country’s development structures have become. Five national records fell on the second day alone, followed by three more on the final day. ([Athletics South Africa][3])

School-level athletics has also continued to provide another pathway for young competitors. The 2026 Autumn National School Sport Championships brought learners from around South Africa together at Pilditch Stadium in Pretoria, where competitors participated in events ranging from sprints and hurdles to middle-distance races and field events. ([Department of Education South Africa][4])

For many viewers, however, statistics were not what made the resurfaced clip special.

It was simply the sight of a young athlete giving everything on the track and appearing completely focused on reaching the finish line.

Whether she can recreate the magic at another championship remains to be seen, but judging by the reaction online, Mzansi would certainly love to see her back in action.

**Image credit: asa_athletics_south_africa/Instagram**

Political Assassinations Rise Ahead of Local Elections as Expert Sounds AlarmSouth Africa’s approaching local government...
24/08/2026

Political Assassinations Rise Ahead of Local Elections as Expert Sounds Alarm

South Africa’s approaching local government elections are being overshadowed by growing concern over political assassinations, with an organised-crime expert warning that the country is entering an increasingly dangerous period.

Julian Rademeyer, a senior adviser at the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organised Crime, says **26 people have been killed in suspected political hits since the beginning of 2026**.

The figure has raised alarm as South Africa prepares to vote in the local government elections on **4 November 2026**, when political parties will compete for control of municipalities across the country. ([EWN][1])

# # Election years appear particularly dangerous

Rademeyer told 702 that politically linked killings tend to increase during election years because competition for positions, municipal resources and tenders becomes more intense.

According to the expert, close to 200 cases he has tracked involving political killings date back to 2000, and about **56% occurred during election years**. ([EWN][1])

He said municipal politics can become especially dangerous because political positions may provide influence over jobs, contracts and other resources.

In some cases, violence may also be used to remove rivals or silence opposition.

Another troubling feature of the current situation is that the killings are not restricted to one political organisation.

Rademeyer said victims linked to several parties, including the ANC, MK Party, EFF, DA, IFP and BOSA, have been affected. Civic activists have also been among those targeted. ([EWN][1])

That spread, he warned, suggests the problem has moved beyond the factional battles of any single party.

# # Authorities promise action

Law-enforcement officials have also acknowledged the danger.

The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure, known as NATJOINTS, recently raised concern about the murders of political party members and councillors as campaigning intensifies.

Deputy National Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Tebello Mosikili said seven suspects had already been arrested in connection with politically motivated murder cases across four provinces by early August.

Authorities have warned anyone attempting to intimidate candidates, communities or political parties through violence that they will be pursued by police. ([SABC News][2])

The Political Killings Task Team has also been brought into several investigations.

One recent case involved ANC eThekwini Ward 17 councillor Sibusiso “Khekhe” Khwela, who was shot dead inside his office after a gunman allegedly entered pretending to need assistance. His murder investigation was subsequently taken over by the task team. ([SABC News][2])

# # Experts fear violence could escalate

Political violence is not limited to KwaZulu-Natal, historically one of the provinces most associated with political killings.

Cases involving politically connected people have also emerged in Gauteng, the Western Cape and Eastern Cape.

Political analyst Sandile Swana has warned that the 2026 local government elections could potentially become among the deadliest because attacks are increasingly affecting people from a wider range of political parties. ([IOL][3])

Rademeyer believes South Africa has reached an important point where stronger intervention is necessary.

While he acknowledged the work being carried out by the Political Killings Task Team, he warned that the country remains poorly equipped to confront the broader scale of assassinations.

The consequences extend beyond those directly targeted.

Political killings can intimidate candidates, silence community activists and undermine the ability of voters to participate freely in democratic processes.

With the November elections drawing closer, the concern is no longer simply about who wins control of municipalities.

For some politicians and activists, participating in local politics could carry a far more frightening risk — losing their lives.

**Image credit: Guillem Sartorio/Getty Images**

Former Uzalo Actor Zuluboy Eyes Timbaland Collaboration and Calls on Mzansi for SupportSouth African rapper and actor Zu...
24/08/2026

Former Uzalo Actor Zuluboy Eyes Timbaland Collaboration and Calls on Mzansi for Support

South African rapper and actor Zuluboy is setting his sights on a major international opportunity as he campaigns for a chance to work with legendary American producer Timbaland.

The former *Uzalo* star has entered the **Timbaland Global Search**, an international music competition in which artists are relying on public support to advance through the different stages.

Zuluboy is now calling on his fans and fellow South Africans to rally behind him by voting and sharing his campaign as he attempts to move up the global leaderboard. ([Briefly][1])

For the veteran entertainer, the opportunity could mark another major chapter in a career that has already stretched across music, television and presenting.

# # Zuluboy wants Mzansi behind him

The competition brings together musicians from around the world hoping to earn recognition and potentially work with Timbaland, one of the most influential producers in modern popular music.

According to reports, Zuluboy has encouraged supporters to vote regularly and spread his campaign links online, making fan participation an important part of his attempt to progress in the competition. ([Briefly][1])

Public voting for the Timbaland Global Search opened in August, with contestants competing against other artists for advancement in the international search. ([Kaos Records][2])

A collaboration with Timbaland would represent a significant international moment for Zuluboy. The American producer has built a decades-long career working with major global artists and developing a production style that helped shape R&B and hip-hop.

For a South African artist whose sound has long combined hip-hop with distinctly Zulu musical and cultural influences, getting the opportunity to enter that creative space could introduce his music to an even wider audience.

# # From Uzalo to international music ambitions

Although many television viewers know Zuluboy from his acting career, music has always been central to his identity.

The artist, whose real name is Mxolisi Majozi, previously appeared on *Uzalo* as Last Number. He has also featured in productions including *Durban Gen*, *Gold Diggers* and *Soul City*. ([MMM / Multi Management Agency][3])

His entertainment journey has consistently moved between acting and music, with the rapper becoming known for blending hip-hop with his cultural roots.

More recently, Zuluboy has been spending time in the United States while continuing to work on new material.

Speaking to TshisaLIVE in June 2026, the musician said he had continued recording and was preparing music featuring South African and American artists. He described his work as part of a broader mission to promote unity while carrying African stories and sounds to international audiences. ([TimesLIVE][4])

The Timbaland opportunity therefore arrives at an interesting point in his career.

# # Fans could help determine what happens next

Like many public-vote competitions, progressing in the Timbaland Global Search will require more than simply submitting music.

Artists must also mobilise supporters and generate enough momentum to remain competitive among entrants from around the world.

That means Zuluboy is counting on the same South African audience that has followed his journey through music and television to help push his international ambitions forward.

Whether he ultimately secures the dream collaboration remains to be seen, but simply competing puts the former *Uzalo* actor in an international field of musicians chasing the same opportunity.

For Zuluboy, the message to supporters is clear: if Mzansi wants to see a South African artist potentially entering the studio with Timbaland, now is the time to get behind the campaign.

**Image credit: Zuluboy/Facebook, Prince Williams/WireImage**

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