The recent passing of Raymond Ackerman marked the loss of one of South Africa’s most remarkable figures. However, his legacy remains a beacon of hope for a nation grappling with multiple crises. Ackerman’s achievements brought a glimmer of optimism amidst a week of personal strife for all South Africans.
On World Suicide Prevention Day, it’s important to remember the significance of having open conversations about mental health struggles. Unfortunately, our busy lives often hinder us from reaching out to others for fear of being burdensome. This leads some individuals to endure the overwhelming challenges of depression or suicide alone. The resulting isolation can exacerbate the problem, causing reluctance to ask for help and promoting stigma surrounding mental health.
Cape Town’s public transportation system has long been a source of frustration for its residents. An ongoing dispute between the city’s government and the national government regarding the devolution of passenger rail services has added to the city’s woes. City officials believe that devolving rail operations to competent metros would improve transportation significantly and bolster the local economy. However, the national government has yet to grant their request, prompting the City of Cape Town to consider legal action.
The Baxter Theatre Centre, located at the base of the mountain on UCT’s lower campus, is a renowned performing arts venue that showcases important South African stories. This iconic location offers a lineup of exciting performances for September that feature a mix of contemporary plays, classical opera, and cultural celebrations.
FYN, one of Cape Town’s finest restaurants, is teaming up with Michelinstarred chef Shin Takagi for an extraordinary culinary collaboration. This gastronomic event, which will take place on Sunday, 17 September, promises an exquisite omakase sushi lunch and a kaisekistyle dinner. The event will feature sustainably sourced local fish and coastal ingredients prepared with precision and passion.
Spring is a time of new beginnings a time to celebrate life and beauty. To experience all that spring has to offer, head to Paternoster, a picturesque coastal town in the Western Cape, from 1 to 3 September 2023. This enchanting town will host the Blomme & Bubbles event, a celebration of art, music, food, and Cap Classique wine.
Six wine farms in South Africa’s Western Cape have been recognized as WWF Conservation Champions for their exceptional commitment to environmental preservation and sustainable production practices. These farms Boland Cellar, De Grendel, Glenwood Vineyards, Hartenberg Family Vineyards, Lomond Wine Estate, and PaardenKloof Estate have demonstrated an unwavering dedication to regenerative farming practices, such as biodiversity conservation and land protection for endangered species.
The Blisters for Bread Charity Family Fun Walk is an annual event that brings participants of all ages and fitness levels together to walk in support of the Peninsula School Feeding Association. This year’s event is slated for Sunday, 27 August on Sea Point Promenade and Beach Road.
The South African Schools Act provides schoolchildren with the option to request protective orders against individuals who harass them, aiming to prevent selfharm or suicide. Minors aged 10 or older found guilty of bullying could face imprisonment. Children can request protection orders without parental consent.
South African Grade 11 learners have been invited to embark on an unforgettable expedition to the frozen continent of Antarctica, as part of the Matrics in Antarctica (MIA) challenge. This annual venture is an incredible opportunity for five matriculated learners to explore a different corner of our planet. They will be accompanied by explorer Riaan Manser and will depart from Cape Town International Airport on board an Ultima Allusion cargo plane, before touching down on the colossal expanse of Antarctica after a sixandahalfhour flight.
The Western Cape province has been facing a surge in gangrelated crimes in the last three months. The situation is alarming, with significant increases in murder and attempted murder rates, especially targeting innocent children. Around 17.7% (166) of the almost 1000 murders in the province were linked to gangs, and 225 attempted murders were recorded.
The residents of Hanover Park have taken a stand against the inhumane activity of dogfighting. The recent arrest of a suspect linked to the brutal sport has sparked a united effort to protect animals from harm. ### Cape of Good Hope SPCA Responds
The District Six Museum and Koe’sister Magazine have joined forces to create a unique event that celebrates, connects, and trades within the local community of Cape Town. This gathering is dedicated to uplifting the community and fostering a vibrant trading space for entrepreneurs. As the country commemorates Women’s Month, this market is a fitting tribute to the spirit of unity and progress.
After a long wait of almost a year, the man charged with the murder of Klawer teenager Jerobiojin van Wyk, Daniel Smit, is finally undergoing a mental evaluation at Valkenberg Psychiatric Hospital in Cape Town. The discovery of Jerobiojin’s remains in sewerage pipes at Smit’s residence led to his arrest last year, and he was subsequently charged with murder, attempted murder, kidnapping, defeating the ends of justice, and failure to report the incident to the police. Allegedly, the teenager was killed for stealing mangoes from Smit’s garden.
South Africa’s Minister of Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, reiterated the country’s commitment to providing electricity to Namibia during a media briefing in Windhoek. Namibia currently generates only 40% of its required energy domestically, with the remaining 60% imported from neighboring countries through the Southern African Power Pool. South Africa contributes 100 megawatts to this energy supply.
Solar MD, a lithiumion battery storage manufacturer, has broken ground on the continent’s first gigawatt battery storage manufacturing plant in Cape Town, South Africa. This development marks a significant milestone for the African continent and Cape Town, setting them on a path towards a smarter, cleaner, and more secure energy future.