Thursday, August 7, 2025
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TikTok fined $600 million for sending user data to China

TikTok has been ordered to pay €530 million (around $600 million) for sending European users’ data to servers in China, a breach of the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

 

TikTok has six months to bring its data processing into compliance, pending any possible appeal.

The Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC) found that TikTok violated GDPR laws because it couldn’t guarantee that data transferred to China would be protected to a standard equivalent to the EU’s.

The court singled out China’s anti-terrorism and counterespionage laws as potential risks that Chinese authorities could access European users’ data.

The video app was fined €485 million for sending the data to China, and €45 million for its privacy policy failing to adequately explain the data transfers.

TikTok updated its privacy policy in 2022, and the court deemed that new policy “compliant.” The company has also promised to invest €12 billion (about $13.6 billion) in data centers in the EU, but that wasn’t enough to sway the court.

Throughout the inquiry TikTok insisted that user data was only remotely accessed from China, and not stored on servers there.

Last month the company informed the court that it had discovered that “limited” European data had in fact been stored in China, and has since been deleted.

DPC deputy commissioner Graham Doyle warned that “further regulatory action” may be required for that additional breach.

This is the third-largest GDPR fine yet, with only Meta and Amazon ordered to pay more.

TikTok, which has its European headquarters in Ireland, has already been given a hefty GDPR penalty from the Irish court before, receiving a $367 million bill in 2023 for how it processes children’s data.

Zimbabwe announce Test squad for historic England clash

Zimbabwe Cricket has named a 15-member squad for the historic Test match against England set for 22-25 May 2025 at Trent Bridge in Nottingham.

 

The one-off fixture marks Zimbabwe’s first Test appearance on English soil in over two decades, the last such occasion having come in 2003.

Following a hard-fought one-all series draw against Bangladesh, the national selectors have made three changes to the Test squad.

Star all-rounder Sikandar Raza returns to the side, replacing Johnathan Campbell, while Clive Madande is back from injury to take over from Nyasha Mayavo as the back-up wicketkeeper.

Additionally, pacer Newman Nyamhuri reclaims his spot in place of leg-spinner Vincent Masekesa, with the team opting for an extra fast bowler in light of the expected seam-friendly conditions in England.

Zimbabwe Head Coach Justin Sammons expressed confidence in the group, saying: “In terms of performance, I expect us to play to a standard that can compete with one of the best teams in the world.

“I really want to see the guys walking out there believing that they belong, embracing and enjoying the moment.”

The landmark Test match against England will be followed by a four-day encounter against South Africa from 3-6 June at Arundel.

That match will serve as vital preparation for South Africa ahead of the ICC World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s, scheduled for 11-15 June.

The Zimbabwe squad is expected to depart for England on Friday to acclimatise ahead of the much-anticipated Test.

ZIMBABWE TEST SQUAD FOR ENGLAND TOUR:

Craig Ervine (Captain), Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Trevor Gwandu, Clive Madande, Wessly Madhevere, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Victor Nyauchi, Sikandar Raza, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Nicholas Welch, Sean Williams

Parliament to summon Podcaster MacG after comments on Minnie Dlamini

Podcaster Macgyver “MacG” Mukwevho is to be summoned to South African parliament by Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike.

 

The Deputy minister says podcaster MacG’s statements about media personality Minnie Dlamini were a violation of Dlamini’s rights.

Letsike said MacG, whose real name is Macgyver Mukwevho, speculated about the reasons for the break-up of Dlamini’s past romantic relationships on his Podcast and Chill platform last month, implying her genital odour was to blame.

“These comments are disgusting and must be regarded as an unconstitutional violation of Dlamini’s rights to freedom and security of the person, equality and human dignity as enshrined in the constitution,” she said.

Letsike said she considered MacG’s statements to constitute “online gender-based violence” (GBV).

“What is alarming is MacG has a history of disparaging Dlamini and other women on the same platform.”

Letsike criticised cultural history that allows shameful behaviour towards women such as an apartheid era statute that regarded black women as legal minors, commodifying women through lobola regulations and controlling women’s mobility, sexuality, finances and labour, regardless of their standing in society as adults with autonomy and of sound mind.

Letsike noted statements by the public and viewers of Podcast and Chill as well as the condemnation by Moja Love of MacG’s disregard for women’s rights and gender equality in his utterances.

“There is no room in our democracy for misogynistic and demeaning utterances that perpetuate patriarchal iterations of gender relations.

We are encouraged that within the ranks of South African society we have people who are sober in mind to call out abhorrent tendencies that are a distraction from achieving gender equality.”

Content creators should be accountable and responsible in pursuit of human dignity and ubuntu.

“Broadcasters must enforce strict standards that prohibit hate speech and personal attacks and regulators should consider whether measures are warranted to prevent the normalisation of GBV on the airwaves.”

MacG’s comments will be reported to the appropriate constitutional and legal bodies, such as the Commission for Gender Equality, the Human Rights Commission and the Broadcasting Complaints Commission of South Africa so they can look into the matter, she said.

Bongeziwe Mabandla Fronts Adidas campaign

Bongeziwe Mabandla is one of the faces of Adidas Originals’ new campaign — a celebration of individuality and creative spirit. His tagline? “It just takes one to build crowds instead of joining them.”

 

Joining fellow South African artists Focalistic, Doowap, and Shekhinah, Bongeziwe brings his distinct energy to a campaign that’s hitting billboards and screens across the country.

A celebration of South Africa’s singular ability to produce one-of-one voices, The Original spotlights those operating at the cutting edge of their craft — bold, visionary, and deeply rooted in culture.

It’s a campaign about individuality and legacy, powered by a collective belief in creativity as a force for connection and change.

Mabandla appears in a striking portrait series, captured by Room Studio, that reflects both his essence as an artist and the unique space he holds in South Africa’s cultural narrative — one that fuses tradition with emotion, intimacy with innovation.

He features as part of a powerful line-up of creatives each celebrated individually for their role in shaping a new era of originality in South Africa.

Simba Bhora Closes Gap on Unbeaten MWOS 

The Castle Lager Premier Soccer League is shaping up to be a thrilling contest, with just one point separating log leaders MWOS and resurgent defending champions Simba Bhora after Matchday 9.

 

MWOS remain unbeaten in their dream debut top-flight campaign, sitting on 19 points after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Manica Diamonds at their newly renovated Ngoni Stadium in Norton.

The newcomers showed resilience, clawing back from a goal down to preserve their unbeaten run – though they may rue dropping two points in what could prove a pivotal moment in the title race.

Meanwhile, Simba Bhora kept the pressure on with a 2-1 victory over Kwekwe United, moving to 18 points as coach Joel Luphahla slowly silences early-season doubts.

In third place, Scotland FC stayed in contention with 16 points after a narrow 1-0 win over Herentals, sealed by Tymon Machope’s powerful 57th-minute header at Rufaro Stadium.

 

Castle Lager PSL Matchday 9 Results

CAPS United 1-2 FC Platinum
Green Fuel 0-0 Dynamos
Highlanders 1-0 Bikita Minerals
Chicken Inn 0-0 TelOne
Kwekwe United 1-2 Simba Bhora
Ngezi Platinum 1-2 Yadah
Triangle United 1-2 ZPC Kariba

Scottland Fc 1-0 Herentals

MWOS 1-1 Manica Diamonds

Victoria Falls Hosts UEFA Champions League Trophy on Its Worldwide Journey

The most famous prize in club football, the UEFA Champions League trophy, is at Victoria Falls as part of the tour, which will see it headed to Vietnam, Indonesia, South Africa, Zambia, and Kenya to meet the fans.

 

It was accompanied by German football legend Bastian Schweinsteiger, who posted images with majestic Victoria Falls providing a stunning backdrop.

Ahead of the 2025 decider in Munich, the Trophy Tour sets out with Heineken for Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Ha Noi, Jakarta, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Lusaka and Nairobi, with a series of events scheduled to reward some of the most committed Champions League supporters.

The most prestigious piece of silverware in world club football has been travelling the globe in recent years, with supporters in north, central and south America, PR China, Republic of Korea and Japan all getting the chance to be close to the trophy.

Almasi Arts to Stage August Wilson’s Jitney in Harare

Almasi Collaborative Arts will bring August Wilson’s celebrated play ‘Jitney’ to Zimbabwean audiences with a special staged reading at Jasen Mphepo Little Theatre on 3 May 2025.

 

The production, directed by Charmaine Mujeri, features a mix of established and emerging local talent including Michael Kudakwashe, Tanatswa Kumirai and Buhlebenkosi Chinhara.

Director Mujeri describes ‘Jitney’ as offering “a powerful lens to examine Black men’s search for identity within oppressive systems.”

The play explores the lives of African American cab drivers in 1970s Pittsburgh as they navigate economic hardship and personal struggles, particularly when the owner’s son returns from prison to a business facing demolition.

The production will begin with an intensive two-day dramaturgical workshop led by Almasi’s Programs Coordinator Gideon Jeph Wabvuta, who notes:

“Wilson’s language feels familiar yet revelatory. Audiences will recognise these characters’ resilience.”

This staged reading continues Almasi Collaborative Arts’ mission to bring important global narratives to African stages.

Founded in part by acclaimed playwright Danai Gurira, the organisation specialises in developing dramatic literacy and providing opportunities for African creatives.

Tickets for the 3 May performance at Jasen Mphepo Little Theatre are available through Almasi’s website at www.almasiarts.org

The event promises to deliver August Wilson’s signature blend of poetic dialogue and profound social commentary to Zimbabwean theatre-goers.

Welch, Williams set up promising start before Bangladesh hit back

Fine half-centuries from Nick Welch and Sean Williams put Zimbabwe in a strong position at 161 for two at tea on the opening day of the second Test against Bangladesh in Chattogram on Monday.

 

However, a combination of misfortune and some inspired bowling saw them finish the day on 227 for nine.

After winning the toss and choosing to bat, Zimbabwe made a steady start.

Brian Bennett played positively while Ben Curran anchored the innings, with the pair putting on 41 for the first wicket.

Both fell for 21, with Bennett departing first to bring in Welch.

Curran was dismissed with the score on 72, paving the way for a key partnership between Welch and Williams.

The duo batted with great composure and skill throughout the afternoon, navigating the Bangladesh attack to take Zimbabwe into a strong position at the tea break.

Shortly after the interval, though, Zimbabwe suffered an unfortunate blow when Welch, on 54, had to retire hurt due to cramps in his hands.

The disruption to the batting order coincided with Bangladesh tightening their lines, and wickets began to fall.

Craig Ervine edged behind for five and, shortly afterward, Williams was caught attempting a paddle sweep after a fine innings of 67.

Both wickets fell to the off-spinner Nayeem Hasan, whose clever variations troubled the middle order.

Even after reaching 200 with four wickets down, Zimbabwe faced a renewed challenge as Taijul Islam struck with a brilliant spell of left-arm spin.

He accounted for Wessly Madhevere (15) before claiming two wickets in two balls, removing Wellington Masakadza and Richard Ngarava to dent Zimbabwe’s progress further.

Tafadzwa Tsiga showed resilience in the lower order, but lost Vincent Masekesa to a run-out.

Welch, having returned after his earlier injury, was unable to rebuild and was bowled by Taijul for 54, ending a courageous innings that had spanned 133 deliveries and included two sixes and three fours.

By stumps, Zimbabwe were 227 for nine, with Tsiga unbeaten on 18 and Blessing Muzarabani on two.

 

Zimbabwe – 227-9 in 90 overs (Sean Williams 67, Nick Welch 54, Brian Bennett 21; Taijul Islam 5/60, Nayeem Hasan 2/42, Tanzim Hasan Sakib 1/49)  

Bangladesh

Day 1 – Stumps

“Muri Mwari” by Tatenda Mahachi – A Call to Surrender and Divine Trust 

Award-winning gospel artist Tatenda Mahachi has unveiled his latest single, “Muri Mwari,” a worship song that invites believers into deeper surrender to the Holy Spirit.

 

The track, which serves as both a prayer and a proclamation, encourages listeners to embrace God’s will with unwavering faith.

Mahachi describes “Muri Mwari” as a personal testament to the peace found in yielding to divine guidance.

“This song came from my own journey of learning to trust God beyond my understanding,” he shares.

“In a world filled with uncertainty, ‘Muri Mwari’ is a reminder that true freedom begins when we let the Holy Spirit lead—every step, every struggle, every victory.”

Rooted in contemporary gospel with rich African choral influences, “Muri Mwari” combines soaring vocals, dynamic percussion and stirring harmonies.

Produced with a blend of organic instrumentation and modern worship elements, the track creates an atmosphere of both intimacy and celebration.

Its crescendoing arrangement mirrors the song’s message: a rising faith in God’s sovereignty.

In an era where anxiety and division often dominate headlines, “Muri Mwari” offers a counter-narrative of hope and spiritual anchoring.

Designed for congregational worship and personal devotion alike, the song’s lyrics—”Mweya Mutsvene, Muri Mwari, itai sezvamunoda”—reaffirm the believer’s identity in Christ.

Watch ‘Muri Mwari’ video below

Castle Tankard Turns 65: A Grand Racing Legacy Meets Star-Studded Entertainment

Zimbabwe’s premier horse racing event, the Castle Tankard, returns for its 65th edition on Saturday, 10 May 2025, promising a thrilling fusion of sport, culture, and live entertainment at Borrowdale Racecourse.

 

Organised by Delta Beverages in partnership with the Mashonaland Turf Club, the Castle Tankard is Africa’s longest-running sponsored horse race and remains Zimbabwe’s only Grade One racing event.

This year’s race carries a lucrative USD $50,000 purse and will attract top jockeys, trainers, and thoroughbreds from across the region.

The Castle Tankard has evolved into more than just a race; it’s a national celebration and a fixture on Zimbabwe’s social calendar.

Patrons can expect the usual carnival-like atmosphere from 10 AM to 7:30 PM, with braais, ice-cold Castle Lager, and top-notch musical performances creating an unforgettable festival feel.

Oriyano

Headlining the entertainment lineup is sungura legend Alick Macheso, alongside Zimdancehall stars Enzo Ishall, Delroy Shewe, Nisha T, and the ever-popular Chillspot Family.

Notably, rising artist Oriyano will make his Castle Tankard debut, marking a milestone moment in his career as he takes to one of Zimbabwe’s biggest stages for the first time.

Delta Beverages Marketing Director Irimayi Muzorewa said the event will offer “a day of unity, excitement, and world-class racing,” inviting fans of both sport and music to “Come Together with a Castle.”