The Searle Street cottages in Cape Town, South Africa, are at the center of a legal battle launched by six families to prevent eviction and secure their right to remain in their homes. The cottages, situated on church land, were sold to a private developer, highlighting persistent issues of race, class, and the commodification of housing in the city. The case underscores the ongoing struggle for social justice and equal access to housing in Cape Town, and serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of apartheid.
Three of Western Cape’s academic hospitals in South Africa may face a financial crisis due to a budget deficit of at least R570 million. The Groote Schuur Hospital, Tygerberg Hospital, and the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital are struggling with cutbacks in service delivery, which may lead to a depletion of their funds by January 15. The crisis is due to an unexpected public sector wage increase for which the government did not provide funding, leading to a wage deficit of R8.7 billion.
Cape Town’s Festive Lights Dance Competition showcases talented dancers in various styles, promoting unity and artistic growth in the community. Contestants can upload a twominute choreographed dance video on social media, with the top three crews winning cash prizes and the opportunity to perform at the Festive Lights SwitchOn event. The competition aims to highlight the diverse cultures and artistic expressions of Cape Town and celebrate the spirit of hope, unity, and a shared future.
The Clanwilliam Dam project in the Western Cape is being revived with a R4 billion investment to raise the dam wall by 13 meters and increase water capacity. This will aid disadvantaged farmers, creating jobs and fostering food security while promoting economic growth. Over 500 employment opportunities will be generated for local residents, who will also benefit from new business prospects. The project is a vital step forward for the West Coast communities, improving living conditions and promoting sustainable development.
The Tourism Equity Fund in South Africa is a new R1.2 billion project that seeks to promote expansion, transformation, and inclusivity in the tourism sector. The Fund offers financial aid and support to Qualifying Small Enterprises and Emerging Micro Enterprises, prioritizing job creation, sustainability, and targeted groups such as youth, women, and disabled individuals. The Department of Tourism and the Small Enterprise Finance Agency are collaborating with banks and financial institutions to ensure the successful implementation of the TEF and promote a more inclusive and prosperous tourism sector.
The City of Cape Town is taking proactive measures to help customers in designated areas upgrade their prepaid electricity meters to new software. Eligible customers will receive two upgrade codes with their electricity purchase, and city teams are available to provide support if needed. The upgrades will not affect electricity consumption or existing units, and mopup operations will be conducted in early 2024 to ensure all meters are upgraded before the deadline. The City is committed to delivering reliable and efficient power supply services to its residents.
David Millar has been appointed as the new Chief Evaluator of the Schools Evaluation Authority (SEA) in the Western Cape, responsible for improving the quality of education in the province. With extensive experience in education and a master’s degree in Education Planning, Mr. Millar aims to lead a transparent and valuesdriven SEA that focuses on the wellbeing of learners and evidencebased policies. His appointment symbolizes a promising development for education in the Western Cape, as the SEA continues to promote school improvement and elevate educational standards.
Cape Town will see a significant decrease in human settlements grants, losing over R107 million in the 2023/24 financial year, resulting in R37 million being eliminated from the Informal Settlement Upgrading Partnership Grant and R70 million from the Urban Settlements Development Grant. The cuts will impact vulnerable members of society who depend on grant funding for vital services and aid. The city is now emphasizing privatesector housing delivery and giving priority to the rapid release of land for affordable housing.
Minister Enoch Godongwana’s MediumTerm Budget Policy Statement outlines South Africa’s plans to stabilize public finances, accelerate growthpromoting reforms, and restructure the state while delivering highquality public services. The economic and fiscal context of South Africa is discussed, including rising debt levels, combating crime and corruption, and infrastructure investment and growth. The government aims to invest in infrastructure, implement growthenhancing reforms, and address challenges to promote economic growth and social development for all citizens.
As World Sandwich Day nears, the annual Sarmiethon Challenge, spearheaded by humanitarian organization Ladles of Love, aims to give out an impressive 90,000 sandwiches to those in need with the help of companies, volunteers, and the public. This event not only serves as an inspiring teambuilding exercise for participating organizations but also significantly enhances the lives of the less privileged.
The Fisherman’s Lane precinct in Strandfontein has undergone an impressive makeover, including a new access road, recreational facilities, and a wooden boardwalk with railings. The project emphasizes sustainability and communitydriven design, providing a cherished destination for beach lovers and anglers. The revitalization of the area represents a commitment to environmental preservation, with plans for dune rehabilitation in the future. The reimagined Fisherman’s Lane Pavilion has become a valued resource for the entire community, injecting renewed vitality into Strandfontein’s appeal and charm.
Cape Town’s Final 2023 Property Auction offers an exceptional investment opportunity, with multiple prime properties aimed at boosting the city’s economy. The auction includes an extensive 86,000 m² of industrial and commercial space across 12 sites, coveted commercial kiosks in the city center and Simon’s Town, and an appealing commercial site in Century City. The auction takes place online, and interested individuals are urged to register and bid online to support the city’s economic growth strategy and generate income for municipal service delivery.
CocaCola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA) and the Free State Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA) have partnered to promote small enterprises in Harrismith’s townships through the Bizniz in a Box (BiB) programme. The programme provides support to entrepreneurs with business equipment, infrastructure upgrades, and training, as well as ongoing business development support. The aim is to create employment opportunities and reduce poverty in marginalized communities, bridging the spatial gap and empowering SMMEs.
The Water and Sanitation Directorate of the City of Cape Town has announced planned maintenance work across various areas. This includes assessments of the water supply network through zeropressure tests and step testing, as well as infrastructure maintenance through pipe and valve installations, repairs, and replacements. Residents can prepare for scheduled water supply disruptions by storing enough drinking water, filling containers with water for cleaning and sanitation purposes, limiting water usage to essential tasks, and being considerate of neighbors who may need help during water outages. Follow @CityofCTAlerts on Twitter for updates on maintenance work and tanker locations when applicable.
South Africans are eagerly anticipating the 2023 Rugby World Cup final where the Springboks are expected to secure their fourth Webb Ellis Cup. There is currently discussion about the possibility of announcing a public holiday if the team wins, and President Ramaphosa is scheduled to attend the final match against the All Blacks. Despite the outcome, the Springboks’ dedication and commitment have captured the hearts of a nation and serve as a testament to the unyielding spirit of rugby.
Barcadia in Cape Town is a vintage arcade bar that offers classic gaming consoles, arcade games, and a PlayStation 5 console, as well as an exclusive adultsonly environment. The venue features an impressive selection of drinks, including draught beers and nonalcoholic choices. Barcadia is the perfect place to create unforgettable memories with friends while enjoying the thrill of vintage and contemporary gaming.