RC 260904Cape TalkJohn Maytham
Friday, 4 September 2026
A wind-battered Cape Town episode combined political accountability and textbook controversy with nuanced conversations on black tax, literacy, science and the Springboks’ looming All Blacks clash.
- 15:35
The Huguenot Tunnel and Du Toitskloof Pass were closed in both directions because of strong winds, with motorists diverted via the R43 through Ceres and Wolseley.
- 15:24
Researcher Malile Malo Paswana said black tax can provide a family safety net, but warned that debt, open-ended dependency and unequal pressure on women can cause serious harm.
- 17:10
Rebecca Davis reported that investigations found no evidence of wrongdoing by Lighthouse Publishers, yet Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube kept the Foundation Phase textbook catalogue on hold amid a dispute with the DG.
- 15:54
Sixteen-year-old Nicola Kuhn’s literacy initiative, Lyft, has donated more than 5,000 books and reached over 3,000 learners; she is organising more than 20 book drives for International Literacy Day.
- 17:22
Daily Maverick rugby editor Craig Ray said the Springboks’ heavier workload, improving form and set-piece strength could help them beat the All Blacks in Soweto and take a 2–1 series lead.