Mozambican Man Pleads Guilty to R*ape and Murder of Soweto Child
A 24-year-old Mozambican national, Phethe Simiao, has admitted guilt in the Johannesburg High Court for the r*ape and murder of six-year-old Amantle Samane. The crime came to light in October 2024 when Amantle’s body was found in Simiao’s shack in Orlando, Soweto. Facing charges of kidnapping, r*ape, murder, and violating the Immigration Act, Simiao initially planned to plead guilty only to the immigration charge. However, after reviewing the case evidence, his legal team opted for a full guilty plea to avoid a long trial. The case is set to continue for further proceedings.
Simiao, an illegal immigrant in South Africa, shocked the court with his confession, leaving the community reeling from the brutality against the young girl. The decision to plead guilty to all charges has raised questions about the strength of the evidence against him, though details remain under wraps. Amantle’s family and locals are seeking justice, while the legal shift suggests a strategy to expedite the process. The ongoing tension around immigration and crime adds a layer of complexity, with many wondering how this case will impact future policies.
The trial’s next session will determine the path forward, with the court likely to focus on sentencing. Authorities have not commented on the immigration aspect, but the guilty plea brings some closure to a grieving Soweto. Yet, the lack of public insight into the evidence leaves room for doubt—did Simiao confess under pressure, or does the docket reveal an airtight case? As the community watches, the focus remains on ensuring justice for Amantle amidst broader debates on safety and borders.
Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa (PSSA) Bursaries 2026
About the Bursary Provider – Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa (PSSA)
Established in 1885 in King Williamstown by seven pharmacists, the South African Pharmaceutical Association laid the foundation for what would become the Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa (PSSA) in 1946, following the unification of various provincial pharmaceutical societies.

The PSSA is dedicated to leading the pharmacy profession in South Africa, promoting responsible medication use, and enhancing patient care.
About the PSSA Bursary Programmes – Fields Covered
The PSSA, through its Foundation for Pharmaceutical Education (FPE), invites applications for bursary funding for the 2026 academic year. These bursaries support students pursuing pharmacy-related studies at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
- Undergraduate Bursary: For BPharm students in their 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year of study. Awarded for one academic year, with annual re-application required. Selection is based on financial need, academic performance, and other financial assistance received.
- Postgraduate Bursary: For Master’s or Doctoral studies in pharmacy-related fields. Awarded for one academic year, with annual re-application required. Selection is based on project viability and academic potential (60%) and financial need (40%).
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria to be considered:
Undergraduate Bursary
- South African citizen
- Completed Matric
- Enrolled full-time in a BPharm programme (2nd, 3rd, or 4th year; 1st-year students are ineligible)
- Studying at a recognised South African tertiary institution
- PSSA student member (free membership; contact nitsa@pssa.org.za for details)
- Passed all previous subjects/modules
- Minimum overall average of 60% at mid-year
- Proven financial need (household income less than R130,000 per annum before tax)
Postgraduate Bursary
- South African citizen
- Completed Matric and an undergraduate qualification
- Enrolled full-time in a Master’s or Doctoral pharmacy programme at a recognised South African tertiary institution
- PSSA student member (contact nitsa@pssa.org.za for membership details)
- Agree to the bursary terms and conditions (pages 2 and 6 of the application form)
How to Apply
Undergraduate Bursary
- Download the PSSA Bursary Application Form 2026 (.doc)
- Submission Deadline: 11 October 2025
Postgraduate Bursary
- Applications open in March 2026
- Application form will be available on the PSSA website
Required Documents
Submit the following certified documents with your application (incomplete submissions may be disqualified):
- South African ID document
- Full tertiary academic record/transcript
- Motivational letter from a pharmacy lecturer
- Financial declaration (proof of household income, e.g., payslips, balance sheet, affidavit, or pension proof, signed by the applicant and financial supporter)
Submission Methods
- Email: nitsa@pssa.org.za
- Fax: 0866 159 835
Important Notes
- Only certified copies of documents are accepted; do not submit originals.
- Bursaries do not cover existing loans or student debts.
- Applicants will receive an email confirmation upon submission.
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted; no feedback indicates an unsuccessful application.
- Postgraduate applicants should review the SAAHIP postgraduate bursary guidelines on the PSSA website.
- For inquiries, contact Ms. Nitsa Manolis at 012 470 9562 or nitsa@pssa.org.za.
Why Apply?
The PSSA bursaries offer financial support to pursue pharmacy studies, fostering academic excellence and alleviating financial barriers. Recipients gain access to a professional network and opportunities to contribute to South Africa’s healthcare sector.
Closing Dates:
- Undergraduate: 11 October 2025
- Postgraduate: 4 May 2026 (tentative, applications open March 2026)
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