South Africa faces a critical shortage of snake anti-venom, prompting warnings against using homemade treatments for snakebites. Professor Timothy Hardcastle from the National Snakebite Advisory Group advises against traditional methods like sucking or burning the wound, emphasizing the importance of seeking immediate medical care. Despite the scarcity of antivenom, some supplies are still available, and medical assessment remains crucial. An open letter to the Minister of Health calls for urgent intervention to address the antivenom shortage.

Political conflict between the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the African National Congress (ANC) is hindering economic development in the Eastern Cape. The DA criticizes ANC MEC Mlungisi Mvoko for failing to address service delivery and the energy crisis in his budget speech. Mvoko defends his initiatives, including significant funding for Small Medium Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) and the establishment of the Eastern Cape Economic Development Fund (ECEDF). The Coega Development Agency is also expected to create additional jobs through new investments.

Premier Soccer League (PSL) fans in South Africa are expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of goals in the league, comparing it unfavorably to Erling Haaland's performance in the English Premier League. Despite top scorers Khanyisa Mayo and Peter Shalulile each netting 12 goals, fans believe PSL players lack the dedication and teamwork seen in international players. Historical successes of South African teams and players are cited as motivation for current players. Suggestions include introducing a 'goals galore' competition to inspire better performance next season.

The article discusses the harmful effects of the 'summer body' obsession, highlighting concerns from health experts about the extreme measures people take to achieve an ideal summer physique. Peta-Lyn Foot, a manager at the Centre of Psychotherapy Excellence and an occupational therapist, warns that such practices can lead to eating disorders and mental health issues. The piece emphasizes the importance of balanced exercise and consulting healthcare professionals if there are concerns about eating disorders or mental health related to physical appearance.

Kaizer Chiefs are making significant efforts to start the new PSL season on a high note, including bringing back their longtime technical sponsor, Kappa. This move aims to unite past and present supporters, evoking the club's glory days. However, the competition will be tight, with teams like Moroka Swallows and AmaZulu also preparing rigorously for the season.

The BRICS Summit has drawn significant attention in South Africa, with many locals discussing the BRICS New Development Bank. There is a widespread belief that the bank will provide free loans, a myth fueled by the South African government's policies, such as early retirement and social grants. The article suggests that the government should seek support from the New Development Bank to increase social grants to a living wage.

The appointment of Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng in the Senzo Meyiwa trial has brought to light several legal nuances, with the judge providing impromptu lessons to the defense lawyers. The judge's interventions have clarified various points, including the implications of premeditated charges, the proper conduct during cross-examinations, and the scientific methods used to detect erased serial numbers on firearms. These courtroom interactions suggest that more educational moments are expected as the trial progresses.

Godfrey Sigwela discusses the potential threat of Artificial Intelligence to South African languages, particularly isiXhosa. He notes that computer programs are already producing incorrect interpretations and spelling errors, which can significantly alter the meaning of words in isiXhosa, unlike minor spelling variations in English. The article suggests that the misuse of language on social networks is contributing to the degradation of both English and isiXhosa, and warns of the possibility that some languages may be lost due to the proliferation of AI tools.

Nelson Mandela, even while imprisoned, envisioned a free and democratic South Africa, emphasizing forgiveness, peace, and unity. He warned against oppression, corruption, and societal issues like unemployment and the suffering of women and children. His quotes continue to resonate, highlighting his concerns for the nation's future.

Whistleblowing techniques have evolved into a marketable product, with the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) advocating for their integration into corporate strategies. The SABS has published the South African National Standard (SANS) 37002, which offers guidelines for implementing whistleblowing management systems based on trust, impartiality, and protection. Acting CEO Sadhvir Bissoon highlights the potential of whistleblowing to prevent corruption and fraud, emphasizing the importance of protecting whistleblowers' identities. The guidelines, adopted from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), are applicable to all types of organizations and include frameworks for handling whistleblowing cases.