Environmentalist and Outdoor Enthusiast. Amanda is a nature-loving, energetic, and enthusiastic environmentalist who has dedicated her life to exploring and protecting Cape Town's stunning natural landscapes. She is an experienced hiker, wildlife enthusiast, and advocate for sustainable tourism.
Get ready for musical magic with the Sunset Concerts at Ratanga Park in Century City. This monthly event offers a grand picnicstyle music fest against the backdrop of the city’s stunning natural beauty. The inaugural event, headlined by Die Heuwels Fantasties and supported by Cape Flats rapper Jitsvinger, promises to be an indulgent affair and a new cultural landmark for Century City. Bring your family and friends for an enthralling evening of culture and melody under the setting sun.
February in Cape Town is a month of vibrant energy and enthusiasm, with over 21 events celebrating the city’s diverse cultural, athletic, artistic, and business landscape. From the Cape Town 10s to the Seafood & Jazz Festival, each event offers a unique experience and adds a different color to the city’s rich tapestry. The festival promises to attract over 100,000 individuals, benefiting local businesses and offering an opportunity to showcase Cape Town as a prime venue for events and tourism.
The Western Cape High Court upheld the suspension of Ms. Dipuo Peters from her parliamentary duties after she violated the Code of Ethical Conduct during her time as Minister of Transport. Ms. Peters was accused of negligence in her responsibilities, including failing to appoint a Group CEO for the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa and using PRASA buses for ANC events without ensuring compensation. The court’s decision serves as a warning to public servants that their actions are subject to scrutiny and repercussions if they breach ethical behavior. Parliament’s regulatory prerogatives were respected, and the case highlights the importance of adherence to the principles of accountability and freedom of speech in preserving the integrity of the South African Parliament.
South Africa is taking significant steps to combat climate change by introducing effective laws, implementing natureoriented solutions, and investing in environmental programs to generate jobs and boost climate resilience. The nation’s focus on food security also addresses the implications of climate change on this issue. Collaboration is seen as essential to reducing input expenses and diversifying market access for all types of farmers. The challenge of climate change highlights the urgent need for united efforts to ensure a sustainable future.
South Africa’s National Assembly has passed several crucial Bills, including three monetary bills, which aim to redefine and remodel various facets of the nation’s financial, social, and administrative structures. These fiscal bills seek to make adjustments to tax tables and rebates, expand the services of the South African Post Office, and amend the Companies Act of 2008. The bills now move to the National Council of Provinces for approval. The passage of these bills represents a crucial stride towards a fairer future and underscores the power of active governance, public participation, and an unwavering commitment to progress.
South African Breweries has invested R5.8 billion to improve brewing capabilities in two of their plants, which will create jobs and boost the local economy. The investment not only includes facility upgrades, but also demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and sustainable business practices by sourcing 94% of their beer locally. SAB’s investment serves as a beacon of hope for South Africa’s economy and fosters community development, showcasing the power of responsible investment and corporate citizenship.
The Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (dtic) has invited public feedback on the Scrap Metals Policy, focusing on four major points including a temporary ban on exporting certain waste and scrap metal, suspension of the Price Preference System, additional restrictions on exporting semifinished copper products, and a temporary ban on exporting used or secondhand rails. The proposed measures aim to control and oversee trade in metals to prevent damage to the infrastructure and economy. The dtic recognizes the value of public opinions and critique in policymaking and highlights its commitment to transparency, accountability, and public inclusion.
Cape Town is offering support to pensioners through retroactive benefits and adjustments on municipal bills. Those aged 60 and above can apply easily with proof of income, and homeowners earning R7,500 or less per month may also qualify for indigent support. The initiative is not temporary and will remain valid until the next municipal valuation of their property. The City is committed to assisting as many deserving inhabitants as possible, showcasing its caring approach aimed at assisting many to manage their financial burdens.
Thuntsha Lerole is an initiative aimed at upgrading service delivery in North West Province’s Ratlou Local Municipality. The project includes improving transportation, education, agriculture, technology, and community development services. A unique feature of the program is the establishment of a feedback loop for community members to interact with the government. The initiative is a ray of hope that will improve the lives of the residents.
The Dinokana Water Project is a significant undertaking by Magalies Water and the North West Provincial and Local Government to enhance and renovate existing infrastructure, create job opportunities, and ensure water accessibility for every household in the province. Set to unfold in four separate phases, the project aims to offer hope and advancement to the Dinokana community, with a wide scope of initiatives that includes the renovation of existing infrastructure, boreholes refurbishment, upgrading the spring water pump station and pipeline, and constructing an extra 2 Ml reservoir to offer additional gravity pressure. With a completion date of September 30, 2024, the project stands as a symbol of hope and advancement, echoing the government’s determination to confront the province’s water and sanitation issues.
Energy theft is on the rise in South Africa, with cases of theft and vandalism of crucial infrastructure becoming more frequent. The arrest of Phumlani Johan Hadebe, a truck driver implicated in an elaborate energy theft scheme, is just one example of this growing issue. SAPS received 1618 reports of energyrelated crimes in just six months, with 1043 remaining unresolved. The theft of heavy fuel oil poses a significant threat to South Africa’s energy sector’s stability, but SAPS and allied agencies are working to combat this issue through targeted operations against energy theft syndicates.
South Africa’s Energy Action Plan is a significant project for the country’s economic, environmental, and social fabric. Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa will update the nation on the plan’s progress, and the government encourages public participation and media attendance for transparency and democratic governance. The briefing offers a wider perspective into the South African government’s operations, its dedication to transparent governance, and its pledge to public engagement.
Cape Town has been recognized as a leader in climate action in Africa, receiving an Arating for its climate action performance and transparency by the Carbon Disclosure Project. The city aims for carbon neutrality by 2050 and is investing R120 billion in infrastructure to enhance energy and water security, including a shift to carbonneutral energy and integrating alternative water sources. Cape Town’s commitment to sustainable urban development and carbon neutrality serves as an inspiring example for other cities to follow in mitigating climate change and building a sustainable future.
In the vibrant tapestry of South Africa’s democratic structure, the local government operates as its dynamic core. This level of governance directly caters to the public’s needs by implementing critical services and fostering community growth. On November 15, Thembi Nkadimeng, the Minister for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), focused the media lens on this essential field of governance, outlining the support measures and interventions designed for municipalities nationwide.
Premier Alan Winde is dedicated to improving public services, safety, and living conditions for residents of Delft, a suburb in Cape Town. He prioritizes removing firearms from the streets, reducing violence, and working with law enforcement agencies and the community to achieve sustainable services. Despite budget cuts from the national government, Winde promises to maintain services and work efficiently with communities to improve their quality of life. His direct approach, reliance on data and evidence, and commitment to community interaction all demonstrate his dedication to Delft and the wider Western Cape area.
The sudden increase in recoveries has eclipsed the score of 10 vehicles recovered during the first quarter of this fiscal year, offering a ray of hope in the otherwise gloomy scenario of frequent vehicle thefts. The law enforcement agencies in Cape Town have made remarkable recoveries recently, including the recovery of a stolen vehicle after a highspeed pursuit. During the same weekend, officers also recovered a hijacked Toyota Avanza, a Renault KWID, and a stolen motorbike from Eerste River.