With South Africans feeling the pinch of rising living costs, Vodacom is offering a practical lifeline: free funeral cover that requires nothing more than a regular monthly mobile recharge.
Under Vodacom’s new campaign, prepaid customers who recharge a total of R120 or more in a month qualify for R10,000 funeral cover at no extra cost — a move aimed at easing one of households’ biggest unexpected expenses.
Funeral costs in South Africa can run into tens of thousands of rands, and traditional cover often comes with paperwork, medical checks and monthly premiums. Vodacom is cutting those barriers. Customers simply recharge any amount during the month; once their total hits R120, they can register for the cover.
Registration is quick and paper-free. Prepaid users can sign up via the VodaPay app or by dialling _123# on their phone. Once registered, the R10,000 cover activates on the 1st of the following month, giving families peace of mind with every recharge.
The cover is underwritten by Vodacom Life Assurance, a licensed life insurer.
How it works
– Recharge R120 or more in a calendar month
– No paperwork or medical exams required
– Register on the VodaPay app or dial _123#
– R10,000 funeral cover starts on the 1st of the next month
As financial strain grows, Vodacom says the initiative is designed to be accessible, straightforward and genuinely valuable for families wanting to protect themselves from the burden of funeral costs.
Castle Lite used the spotlight of LIV Golf South Africa 2026 to launch its latest innovation — (Draught in a Can) a new format that brings the crisp, bar-style draught experience into a portable can.
The reveal took place on the opening day of the tournament at Steyn City, where thousands of fans had gathered for the inaugural South African leg of LIV Golf. With global eyes on the event, Castle Lite chose the moment to extend its signature draught experience beyond the tap.
For the first time, the smooth, extra-cold taste South Africans associate with Castle Lite Draught (brewed at -2.5°C) will be available in a can, designed for enjoyment anywhere.
The unveiling was staged as a dramatic moment in the Castle Lite Fan Village. Springbok Pieter-Steph du Toit arrived carrying a sealed trophy case — the kind usually reserved for silverware. Instead, the case opened to reveal Castle Lite Draught in a Can.
He was joined on stage by brand ambassador Juicy Jay, while Castle Lite Brand Director Colleen Duvenage lifted the lid for fans, who were among the first in the country to taste it. Music and on-site celebrations followed.
“As South Africa’s favourite draught, we knew there was an opportunity to keep raising the bar,” said Duvenage. “LIV Golf South Africa gave us a stage that matches our ambition — where fans gather to celebrate sport, music and culture. Draught in a Can brings the smooth and crisp draught experience people love into a convenient new format designed for more occasions and more places.”
Castle Lite says the new product preserves the smoothness and quality of draught beer while offering greater convenience and accessibility.
The launch is part of the brand’s broader fan engagement strategy at the tournament, which includes a dedicated Castle Lite activation zone in the Fan Village where spectators can experience the brand across the weekend. Following its exclusive debut, Draught in a Can will roll out nationally.
For Castle Lite, the move marks the next chapter in how South Africans enjoy draught — turning a bar ritual into an everyday, anywhere experience.
NIVEA turned skincare for underarms into a full sensory experience at its recent Derma Control event, held at STAY by Imitable in Muldersdrift. The gathering brought together high-profile influencers for an afternoon that blended hydration, renewal, and self-care — the core promises behind NIVEA’s new Derma Control deodorant range.
The venue set the tone: a calm, upscale space surrounded by greenery, tranquil pools and natural light. Guests sipped NIVEA-blue drinks and sampled nutrient-rich canapés, gelato and sweet treats while a jazz soundtrack played in the background. The day’s message was clear and simple: #ConfidenceWithoutCompromise.
Media darling Thando Thabethe
MC Barbara Moagi opened proceedings with a panel discussion featuring Dr Fez and other dermatology experts. They unpacked why underarm care matters as much as facial skincare, highlighting the Derma Control range’s Even Tone and Defend lines. The conversation emphasized choosing products that protect skin health over time, not just mask odour.
That insight was woven into the day’s activities. At the Even Tone Smoothie Bike, guests pedalled to create their own blends using vitamin C-rich citrus and botanicals — a hands-on nod to the range’s promise of visible results. The NIVEA Care Lab drove the point home with interactive touchpoints, including a 72-Second Challenge, a touchscreen memory game, and a prize draw, all showcasing 72-hour protection and skin-care benefits.
One of the most talked-about spots was the Confidence Capture Studio. Celebrity coach Mirriam Ngomani led guests through power poses before they stepped in front of the camera to show their boldest selves. Each attendee left with a personalised Fieldbar water bottle engraved on site — a practical reminder that hydration and self-care continue long after the event.
Formulated with hyaluron, vitamin C and pro-vitamin B5, the Derma Control range is designed to defend underarm skin against irritation from shaving while keeping it soft and comfortable. The antiperspirants offer 72-hour sweat and odour protection, leaving skin feeling healthier.
From Anti-Stain to Dry, Fresh and Cool Kick, the event reinforced NIVEA’s broader message: advanced underarm care can be simple, intuitive and part of everyday life. The Derma Control experience reminded guests that no matter where life takes them, NIVEA is there to help them move, shine and glow with ease.
As South Africa commemorates Human Rights Month, the spotlight shines on a fundamental human right: access to food. Despite being a food-secure nation, approximately 14 million people – about one-third of the population – experience food insecurity, with over 25% of children under five suffering from stunted growth due to chronic malnutrition.
This stark reality underscores the need for collective action. SPAR, a proud partner of FoodForward SA, is working to address this challenge. Through initiatives like the Mother and Child Nutrition Programme and Food Gardens Connect, FoodForward SA is empowering communities to grow their own produce and redistributing surplus food to vulnerable families.
Other local heroes, like SA Harvest, have delivered over 48.3 million meals by rescuing surplus food, while Operation Hunger’s “Hunger Heroes” mobilise citizens to support local feeding points. Ladles of Love and Chefs with Compassion are also making a difference, serving nutritious meals to those in need.
SPAR’s commitment to community extends beyond retail. When floods devastated Thabazimbi, the company partnered with locals to deliver aid, using off-road vehicles, canoes, and helicopters to reach stranded families.
This Human Rights Month, SPAR’s message is clear: collective effort can make the right to food a reality for more South Africans. By working together, business and communities can cook for change and create a brighter future for all.
FNB has launched an enhanced eWallet service on WhatsApp, making it easier for millions of South Africans to access formal financial services. The new service allows customers to onboard in minutes and unlock a range of everyday financial services, reducing friction for the unbanked, underserved, and underbanked.
“This evolution strengthens our foundation by introducing a more seamless, secure, and intuitive digital wallet for customers who need simple and affordable solutions,” says Lytania Johnson, CEO of FNB Personal Segment. “Our focus remains on expanding access to safe, modern ways of transacting and lowering barriers to entry into the formal financial system.”
The enhanced eWallet enables instant payments, prepaid purchases, cash withdrawals, and cash advances, all through a user-friendly interface. Customers can register directly through WhatsApp, making onboarding more convenient.
“At its core, eWallet is about dignity, access, and possibility,” says Hema Morar, FNB eWallet Executive. “Every enhancement we’ve made is designed to make life a little easier for someone.”
The evolution aligns with South Africa’s payments modernisation agenda, enabling broader participation in the digital economy and reducing reliance on cash. With over R43 billion sent via eWallet in the past year, FNB is committed to playing its part in making financial inclusion a reality for millions of South Africans.
NIVEA South Africa has marked International Women’s Day with the launch of its latest skincare breakthrough, the Cellular Epigenetics Rejuvenating Serum, in collaboration with media personality and entrepreneur Zandisile Nhlapo.
The star-studded event, held at Burkleigh House, brought together influential women from media, business, and the creative industries to celebrate women’s journeys and the power of owning one’s time.
The event’s theme, “Reset”, was woven throughout three experiential pillars – Release, Renew, and Restore – encouraging guests to pause, reflect, and prioritise self-care. Nhlapo took the stage to share her experience with NIVEA’s epigenetic science, highlighting the importance of a skincare routine and lifestyle in maintaining youthful skin.
“NIVEA’s partnership with women who embody empowerment and intention is a natural fit,” says Masindi Siaga, Marketing Manager at NIVEA South Africa. “We’re not just providing skincare solutions, we’re reminding women that confidence and longevity start with a holistic approach.”
The Cellular Epigenetics Rejuvenating Serum, powered by EPICELLINE, targets visible signs of ageing, supporting skin renewal and reversing the signs of ageing. Backed by clinical research, this innovation embodies NIVEA’s commitment to combining science with self-care.
NIVEA’s celebration of International Women’s Day is more than a launch – it’s a movement empowering women to reclaim their time, confidence, and skin health.
Lexus South Africa has announced a dynamic new partnership with LIV Golf, the global golf league that’s shaking up the sport. The partnership marks a major milestone for both brands, uniting their commitment to innovation, luxury experiences, and excellence.
As the official vehicle partner of the LIV Golf South Africa tournament, Lexus will provide 45 premium vehicles, including the GX, RX, NX, and the newly-launched fully electric RZ, to support the event at The Club at Steyn City from March 19-22, 2026.
“Our partnership with LIV Golf South Africa reflects Lexus’ commitment to creating remarkable experiences that go beyond the drive,” says Glenn Crompton, Vice President Marketing at Lexus South Africa. “We’re proud to support a platform that brings world-class sport closer to fans, both on and off the course.”
The partnership promises to deliver a family-friendly environment, with four nights of concerts, an immersive Fan Village, premium food experiences, and more. Lexus will also bring its brand to life through an interactive fan experience, showcasing its leadership in innovation, technology, and design.
“LIV Golf South Africa is one of the marquee events on our global schedule, and we’re thrilled to have Lexus South Africa as our main vehicle partner,” says Chris Bentley, LIV Golf’s Regional Managing Director of South Africa. “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to working with major brands to elevate the player and event experience.”
Tickets for the event are available now at ( LIVGolf.com )Don’t miss out on the action!
In a move that’s sure to delight South African families, Pick n Pay and FNB have announced the return of the country’s most affordable and loved weekly meal deal, Burger Friday. Running every Friday from March 6 to June 26, 2026, this initiative is set to bring joy to households across the nation.
What started as a simple solution to the age-old question, “What’s for dinner tonight?” has evolved into a nationwide favourite and a celebrated weekly tradition. FNB eBucks members can enjoy a build-your-own burger bundle for just R50 (60% off the regular price of R124), while Smart Shopper customers pay R100, making it the best-priced burger meal deal in South Africa.
The Burger Friday bundle includes five essentials: four burger patties, four burger buns, two tomatoes, 80g lettuce mix, and 100g Clover processed cheese. The bundle items are fixed and cannot be substituted or replaced.
“For many of our customers, every rand has a purpose,” says Pieter Woodhatch, CEO of eBucks. “That’s why we design initiatives that help their money stretch further, without compromising on the moments that matter most. Burger Friday is more than a meal deal, it’s about bringing family and friends together, creating simple, feel-good moments of connection and comfort, without the added pressure on the monthly budget.”
The partnership between Pick n Pay and FNB has proven to be a winning combination, with the 2025 campaign showing measurable impact and proving that loyalty innovation can drive commercial uplift, customer happiness, and partner success simultaneously.
“Our partnership with FNB continues to unlock innovative ways to deliver even more value at the till for our customers,” says Peter Arnold, Pick n Pay’s Commercial Fresh Executive. “Burger Friday quickly became a weekly favourite for customers, showing that when we combine quality ingredients with great value, customers respond.”
The exclusive R50 deal is available in-store (Pick n Pay Supermarkets and Hypermarkets) only for qualifying FNB customers and is limited to one deal per customer. The R100 deal is unlimited for customers swiping their registered Smart Shopper card and is also available for delivery on Pick n Pay asap!
“This campaign sets a new benchmark for loyalty partnerships,” says Woodhatch. “We’re incredibly proud of the meaningful value FNB eBucks and Pick n Pay can deliver to customers together. Whether easing the pressure of rising household essentials or offering South Africans the most affordable weekly meal deal, the ‘Iconic Duo’ continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of households nationwide.
Primedia Limited has announced the appointment of Moshoeshoe Monare, aka Mosh, as its new Group Head of Corporate Affairs, effective March 1, 2026. With nearly three decades of leadership experience in the media industry, Mosh brings a wealth of expertise to his new role.
Mosh’s impressive career spans various executive positions, including Group Executive for News and Current Affairs at the SABC, where he drove transformation and growth. He’s also held senior roles at Arena Holdings, Tiso Blackstar Pty Ltd, and other prominent media organizations.
As Group Head of Corporate Affairs, Mosh will lead stakeholder relationship management and drive Primedia’s vision to reshape the advertising ecosystem. “Mosh is a highly respected media figure in Africa, whose visionary leadership will be instrumental in deepening our relationships with strategic partners,” said Primedia Group CEO Jonathan Procter.
Mosh is excited to join Primedia, saying, “I am honoured to leverage my experience and commitment to principled leadership to foster meaningful partnerships and drive innovative solutions that enhance value for stakeholders and promote African content.”
With Mosh on board, Primedia is poised to strengthen its position as a leading media powerhouse in Africa.
Next Saturday, 7th March 2026, the iconic SunBet Arena will transform into a vibrant playground of creativity as Mahindra Fusion Fest 2026 returns with an unstoppable force of music, art, and fashion. Building on its groundbreaking debut, this year’s festival promises to be bigger, louder, and more ambitious, cementing its position as a cultural movement rather than just a single-night event.
Mahindra South Africa has once again curated an extraordinary lineup of boundary-breaking performances, unexpected collaborations, and emerging creators who are pushing the boundaries of their craft. This year, Fusion Fest elevates its production to arena-show levels, transforming the SunBet Arena into a fully immersive theatrical show that brings stories alive. The stage is set for an unforgettable night of music, art, and fashion, with elevated screens, kinetic drapes, and a dynamic stage design that shifts and evolves with every performance.
With over 14 cameras in use, every powerful moment – from intimate vocals to explosive dance breaks – will be captured and amplified across massive screens, ensuring every seat feels front row. The audience is in for a treat, with an array of pyrotechnics, thunderous sounds, and precision lighting that will heighten the emotional journey of each fusion set, turning every performance into a multi-sensory spectacle.
This year’s festival features four genre-defying fusion performances, each crafted to reflect South Africa’s past, present, and future. Each performance is paired with immersive fashion designers and cutting-edge graphic artists, seamlessly fusing every element to create a one-of-a-kind lifestyle festival unlike anything seen before.
The creative process this year has been deeply integrated, with all members of the creative team fusing their departments of lighting, stage, sound, and choreography into one cohesive vision. This seamless collaboration has allowed Mahindra Fusion Fest to become a true playground for performing art, music, and fashion – where no element stands alone, and every detail works in harmony to create unforgettable moments.
The festival’s highly anticipated creative competitions have drawn exceptional talent from across the country, with winners set to be announced on the night of the festival. In the Music Competition, industry heavyweights Zee Nxumalo, Karen Zoid, and the Wawee Music Team narrowed down an incredibly close field to three outstanding finalists, with the winner to be officially selected by Zee Nxumalo on 25 February.
The Fashion Competition has equally showcased bold innovation and emerging design excellence, with five exceptional finalists – Sinekamva Xali, Andile Cele, Tukisho Machina, Zeshaan Samodien, and Refilwe Motsekedi – refining their garments under the mentorship of Thula Sindi. The winner will receive a R30 000 cash prize and a defining career moment in front of a national audience.
In the Art Competition, Cape Town’s Anda Mncayi stood out for exceptional originality and impact, earning the unanimous recognition of the panel. His winning work will form part of the immersive creative landscape at Fusion Fest 2026, embodying the spirit of collaboration and cultural expression that defines this year’s event.
Mahindra Fusion Fest 2026 is more than just a festival – it’s a celebration of South Africa’s vibrant creative landscape, a platform for emerging talent, and an unforgettable experience that will leave you breathless.
Don’t miss out on the fusion
Date: Next Saturday, 7th March 2026
Venue: SunBet Arena
Get your tickets now and be part of this cultural movement!
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