The Legacy of Nokuthula Simelane: An Unsung Heroine of South Africa's Liberation Struggle When you drive around the town of Bethal, you cannot miss the statue put up in memory of Nokuthula Simelane. It prompts reflection on her story and what it means for our country and its people today, in our times of democracy and freedom. Nokuthula Orela Simelane was born in 1960 in Mzinoni, a small township near Bethal in Mpumalanga. She was the first of two daughters of Ernestinah and Matthew Simelane. Growing up in a humble home, she was part of a family deeply rooted in the Swati lineage, known for its rich cultural heritage and resistance to oppression. From a young age, Nokuthula was aware of the injustices around her. Her community's struggles under apartheid influenced her, sparking a strong desire to fight for change. Nokuthula excelled in her studies, which took her to the University of Swaziland. There, she pursued a degree in Social Sciences, majoring in Public Admi...

Namibia’s Oil Industry: A Regional Transformation for the SADC Namibia, renowned for its vast desert landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is on the brink of a transformative economic journey through its burgeoning oil and gas sector. The recent legal and regulatory overhaul aimed at creating a more conducive environment for international investors signifies the nation’s determination to harness its untapped hydrocarbon resources. This article explores the potential impacts of a matured and realized oil industry in Namibia, lessons from other oil-producing countries, and how the entire Southern African Development Community (SADC) region could be transformed through strategic development and regional cooperation. Namibia’s oil and gas sector has shown significant promise, particularly with the government’s active efforts to attract foreign investment. The country’s economy experienced a growth rate of 4.2% in 2023, driven primarily by the mining sector, which includes investments in o...

 Empowering Eswatini - A Network of Progress Eswatini, formerly Swaziland, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and history of progressive leadership under King Mswati III. Amid its evolution, several organizations and individuals have emerged as catalysts for change, spearheading initiatives that uplift communities. Bulembu Ministries, Potters Wheel Church, and their partners stand out for their profound impact. Established in 2006, Bulembu Ministries revitalized the once-abandoned town of Bulembu through community care and enterprise. Offering family-style children’s homes, education, and healthcare, the organization has laid a solid foundation for Eswatini's youth. Key figures like Kevin Ward, a co-founder, and Neal Rijkenberg, the current Minister of Finance of Eswatini, have led Bulembu Ministries, combining faith-based principles with practical community development strategies. Potters Wheel Church, led by Pastor Kevin Ward, serves as a hub for leadership development an...