Author: Chukwu Godlove

Provider of digital identity and biometric solutions supporting institutions across Africa and globally, Seamfix, has developed ePass, a self-service digital passport renewal application for citizens of the Republic of Benin. According to a statement, the application is powered by GovSmart, Seamfix’s government digital identity and service delivery platform, and was delivered in collaboration with the Government of the Republic of Benin. The statement reads in part: “The ePass application enables Beninese citizens living abroad to apply for and renew their international passports fully online, without visiting embassies or consular offices. “Through a secure mobile application, eligible citizens can complete their…

Some summer days in Cape Town start slowly — not because there’s nothing to do, but because the heat demands it. Sunset at Saunders Rock by Zoe Erasmus On one of the hottest afternoons of summer — fittingly aligned with the summer solstice — my friends and I spent the day in Sea Point, letting the longest day of the year unfold at its own unhurried pace. Starting late felt intentional. When the sun is at its peak and the heat is relentless, productivity gives way to presence. Sea Point, with its easy access to the ocean and its laid-back…

Creative tourism is a growing form of travel where visitors learn by taking part in hands-on, culturally rooted activities. These can include classes in local cooking, craft workshops or music sessions. Tourism researchers Anneli Douglas, Gijsbert Hoogendoorn and Greg Richards investigated what kinds of tourism in this niche appeal to South African millennials (defined as those born between 1981 and 1996). Here they share some ideas about expanding creative tourism so that it can help create jobs and opportunities in low-income and rural communities. Why are South African millennials so interested in creative tourism? Millennials who have a good income…

Safari does not have to be intimidating. Image used for illustrative purposes/redcharlie/Unsplash For many travellers the idea of a safari can feel overwhelming. Early morning wake ups, long game drives and unfamiliar wildlife etiquette are often enough to put first timers off entirely. The good news is that South Africa and its neighbouring regions offer a growing number of safari experiences designed specifically for newcomers. These are places where comfort, flexibility and gentle introductions to wildlife come first. A softer introduction to the bush Not all safaris revolve around all day drives and ticking off the Big Five. Beginner focused…

The South African National Parks (SANParks) says it is fully prepared to welcome increased visitor numbers to Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) this festive season. Visitors can expect an enjoyable visit at TMNP’s iconic sites, strong safety measures, and enhanced firefighting and environmental protection capacity. “Visitors can look forward to fantastic scenery and unmatched views in the richly biodiverse TMNP with highlights including visiting the African penguins at Boulders penguin colony, 360-degree views from the Cape Point lighthouse or Signal Hill, standing on the table at the top of Table Mountain after a ride up the cableway or a hike…

Every year around this time, inboxes everywhere erupt in the usual suspects: “New year, new you!” “Become your best self!” “This is the year you finally take up Pilates!” Listen… if 2026 wants me to become a glowing, green-smoothie-fuelling, accountability-journalling beacon of discipline, then 2026 needs to take a seat and reconsider its expectations.Wild motion that rewrites what a new year means, Image Credit: Jao CampWishes for You, the WanderersI don’t do resolutions. I do realities. And preferably the kind that involve wildlife, wide-open spaces, and a well-timed sundowner. So this year, instead of offering you another list of “habits…

There’s something undeniably magical about an infinity pool. Asad / Pexels The way water melts into the horizon, blurring the boundary between luxury and landscape, feels like an invitation to slow down, exhale and simply be. Across Africa, some of the continent’s most breathtaking lodges and hotels have perfected this art, positioning their pools above savannahs, oceans, deserts and dramatic valleys. Whether you’re dreaming of a safari escape, a coastal hideaway or a remote desert retreat, these African infinity pools promise summer days spent floating under vast skies, cocktail in hand. Royal Malewane – Greater Kruger, South Africa Few places…

Bloemfontein, the Free State capital often overlooked by visitors, is quietly building a reputation as one of South Africa’s most exciting astro-tourism destinations. Boyden Observatory and the Naval Hill Planetarium/Facebook With minimal light pollution, accessible science hubs and a growing focus on cultural storytelling, the city is inviting visitors to slow down, look up and reconnect with the night sky. Traditionally known as a judicial and educational centre, Bloemfontein is now drawing a different kind of visitor. According to Travel and Tour World, Astro-tourists are arriving in search of dark skies, immersive astronomy experiences and meaningful travel that blends science…

President Donald Trump, on Tuesday, signed a Proclamation further restricting entry to the United States for nationals from countries deemed high-risk due to “demonstrated, persistent, and severe deficiencies in screening, vetting, and information-sharing” that threaten United States national security and public safety. Nigeria is now listed among the 15 additional countries newly subject to partial restrictions. The announcement comes directly from the White House website, in a fact sheet titled “President Donald J. Trump Further Restricts and Limits the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the Security of the United States”, issued on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. Recall that Trump…

A quick drive in the Western Cape during the summer can feel like a complete getaway. You don’t need a busy schedule or a week off to feel like you’ve been away. Sometimes choosing the correct path is all that’s needed. The point is demonstrated by these two drives from the Western Cape. Using Clarence Drive, one can follow the untamed False Bay coastline from Gordon’s Bay to Betty’s Bay. The other is the Chapman’s Peak micro itinerary, a traditional Cape Town icon presented at a leisurely pace. Both are perfect for quick add-ons to a longer summer vacation or…