Joshlin Smith, a sweet sixyearold girl, has been missing for over a year, but hope is shining bright again. Thanks to blurry CCTV footage, community member Greg WellsClifton is leading the charge to find her, using social media to gather support and keep everyone updated. While the police face challenges in their investigation, the community stands strong, united in their quest for answers and justice. As the trial progresses for those involved in her disappearance, Joshlin’s story reminds us all of the power of hope and the importance of protecting our children.
The protest for Ithala Bank in Durban was a powerful moment for the community, standing up for their financial lifeline and cultural identity. Founded by Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi during Apartheid, the bank had been a beacon of hope for many marginalized people, making its possible closure a deep source of worry. Marchers filled the streets, their chants echoing the shared fear of losing an institution critical to their empowerment and history. This vibrant display of unity highlighted both the emotional weight of Ithala Bank and the ongoing struggle for equality in South Africa. As they marched, the community reaffirmed their commitment to preserving a legacy that meant so much to them.
Anele Mdoda, a popular radio host, had a scary experience during an Uber ride in Cape Town. She used a feature to ask her driver not to talk, but the driver made an inappropriate comment about sexual violence. Anele shared her feelings on Instagram Live, shining a light on safety issues and how technology can help or hurt us. Her story highlights how important it is for everyone to feel safe in public spaces and reminds us that we need to be aware of how we use ridesharing apps.
Kabelo Gwamanda’s political journey is a rollercoaster filled with excitement and trouble. Once a rising star in Johannesburg’s politics, he faced serious accusations of financial misconduct tied to a fake funeral policy scheme that tricked local residents. As investigations heated up, Gwamanda was kicked off the mayoral committee and arrested, but later the charges were pulled back by the National Prosecuting Authority. Despite these challenges, he remains determined to fight back, showing the tough spirit of politicians who must navigate a world full of ups and downs.
Manenberg, a neighborhood in Cape Town, is caught in a tough battle against gang violence, poverty, and disrupted services. The rise in crime has made everyday life dangerous, even halting waste collection and putting workers at risk. This struggle is rooted in a long history of unfairness from the apartheid era, leaving the community grappling with deep challenges. Yet, the spirit of Manenberg shines through; residents are working together, creating art, and supporting each other to find hope and better futures amidst the chaos. Their stories are a powerful reminder of resilience, as they strive to break the cycle of violence and build a brighter tomorrow.
Steven Kitshoff is a true rugby legend, known for his amazing skills and kind heart. He started his journey with the DHL Stormers at just 18 and led his team to victory in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship. Despite a tough neck injury that forced him to retire, his spirit and humility shine bright, inspiring young players everywhere. Having helped the Springboks win two World Cups, Kitshoff’s impact on rugby goes beyond the field; he’s a symbol of strength, teamwork, and dedication that will be remembered for years to come.
The SA Agulhas II is a crucial ship for studying climate change, sailing from Antarctica to Africa to collect important information about the ocean and its ecosystems. This floating laboratory helps scientists understand how rising ocean temperatures affect weather patterns and coastal communities in South Africa. Its research highlights the urgent need to protect our planet, showing that the ocean’s health is key to our survival. As it prepares for its next journey, the SA Agulhas II remains a symbol of hope and knowledge in the fight against climate change.
The Cape Racing Summer Festival is an exciting party in Cape Town that combines horse racing, live jazz music, and tasty seafood. Taking place at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, this vibrant event features the thrilling Gr 1 SplashOut Cape Derby, where top racehorses compete for glory. Families can enjoy a special Kids’ Zone filled with fun activities while everyone indulges in delicious food from various stalls. With free entry and a lively atmosphere, it’s a perfect day out for all, celebrating the joy of summer in this beautiful city!
SASSA grant recipients in South Africa are facing big problems with the new Postbank Black Card, often finding their cards stuck in ATMs after typing the wrong PIN. This frustrating experience shows that many people need more help understanding how to use these cards and access their money. While the Postbank Black Card was meant to make getting social grants easier, many users are still struggling, highlighting a need for better education and support. To truly help these individuals, improving the technology and teaching them how to use it is essential for a brighter financial future.
In Factreton, a fierce battle erupted between local residents and law enforcement over housing rights, laying bare deepseated tensions. City officials aimed to demolish homes in an informal settlement, but the community fought back, seeing these structures as crucial for their survival. Amidst the chaos, injuries were reported, including a tragic incident where a young boy was struck by a rubber bullet. Activists, including a professor who was arrested during the protests, highlighted the injustices faced by vulnerable populations, sparking a call for justice and change in a society grappling with its past. This struggle in Factreton symbolizes the ongoing fight for dignity, rights, and fair treatment in South Africa.
Pretoria is a beautiful South African city where history, culture, and nature come together. You can enjoy many affordable activities, like exploring the stunning gardens of the Union Buildings, visiting the touching Freedom Park, or relaxing in the Pretoria National Botanical Garden. Don’t miss the lively Hazel Food Market, where you can taste local treats, or Church Square, with its grand old buildings. For a taste of wildlife, take a selfdrive safari at Rietvlei Nature Reserve, where you can see rhinos and zebras while enjoying the great outdoors—all without spending much!
The unrest at the University of Cape Town (UCT) is a loud cry for help from students facing tough challenges. They are blocked from registering due to fee issues and struggle to find housing, leaving many without a place to stay. The protests, led by the Economic Freedom Fighters Students’ Command (EFFSC), highlight the deep inequalities in South Africa. Students are demanding change, hoping UCT will listen and act on their needs for a fair education. Their fight echoes past movements, showing the power of unity in seeking justice and equality.
Seth Shezi, the winner of Celebrity MasterChef South Africa, has made a big difference in his community by donating R520,000 to Ladles of Love. This money will help provide healthy meals for 175 preschool children, giving them the food they need to grow strong and happy. Seth’s passion for cooking now shines through his kindness, as he uses his skills to make nutritious and tasty meals for kids who may not have access to fresh food. His efforts show that food can bring hope and joy, helping to shape a brighter future for these young children.
Baanksy, the famous painting sheep from Franschhoek, has vanished, leaving a trail of mystery and sadness behind. Celebrated for his unique talent, he captured hearts around the globe before disappearing on February 1, 2025. A huge reward of R1.2 million is now being offered for any clues to find him, underscoring how much he means to the Farm Sanctuary SA. His story, alongside his artistic legacy, highlights the incredible bond between animals and humans, sparking a movement that encourages kindness and understanding toward all creatures. As the search goes on, the hope remains strong for Baanksy’s safe return to his beloved studio.
In her powerful speech, Minister Thembi Simelane shines a light on South Africa’s journey toward a fairer future. She talks about fixing old wrongs from the past, like land dispossession, and emphasizes the importance of providing homes for all, especially for firsttime buyers and students. Simelane highlights the government’s plans to build more houses and support military veterans, showing a commitment to empower every community. With a strong focus on justice and growth, her words inspire hope for a brighter tomorrow in South Africa.
From February 18 to 20, 2025, the City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate will pause water supply in Hout Bay and along Govan Mbeki Drive for important maintenance. This work is vital for creating a strong and sustainable water system, helping to prevent future issues. Residents are encouraged to store water in clean containers to prepare for the temporary outages. While the work may cause some inconvenience, it represents a smart step towards better water management and community resilience, ensuring that the city’s lifeblood flows smoothly for everyone.