A post template

No image available
/ 27 June 2007

Pentecostals buckle up Africa’s Bible belt

As the miracle-healer descended from the sky in an immaculate white helicopter, his disciples cheered with joy: ”Hallelujah! Praise Jesus.” Gospel songs thundered through the speakers as televangelist Benny Hinn landed outside Uganda’s national stadium last month, before addressing 40 000 enraptured faithful.

No image available
/ 26 June 2007

Mandatory testing for HIV? No thanks

Is mandatory HIV testing for all what South Africa needs to fight the epidemic? Statistics show that there are about 1 500 new HIV infections a day. The call for mandatory testing, which is now finding greater space in the public discourse, took me back a few years, when a close friend died of Aids. He died despite having the best information on treatment and support., writes Pholokgolo Ramothwala.

No image available
/ 26 June 2007

Zim exiles in SA doubt Mbeki will prevail

Zimbabweans who have fled to South Africa marked the International Day against Torture on Tuesday by recounting their experiences at the hands of President Robert Mugabe’s security services. Few were convinced that South African President Thabo Mbeki’s efforts to mediate in their homeland would bear fruit.

No image available
/ 26 June 2007

Crunch time for govt wage strike

Trade-union leaders will meet on Wednesday to discuss suspending the public-service strike during the 21 days they have to consider the government’s final offer. It is understood that the unions discussed the possibility of suspending the strike at a meeting on Sunday, but some wanted more time to consult their members.