In a recent speech at the funeral of Dr. Mbongeni Ngema, Minister N.G. Kodwa highlighted the importance of the arts and culture industry in South Africa, which contributes over 90 billion rand to the country’s GDP and accounts for 6 percent of all employment. He emphasized the need for recognizing and honoring artists while they are still alive and urged the government to take action to establish a fund for sustainable growth. The speech served as a powerful appeal for valuing artists and establishing systems for their sustainability.
The survival of the Black Harrier is intricately linked to the preservation of the entire ecosystem, highlighting the pressing need for conservation efforts. Recent collaborative efforts have provided a ray of hope for the Renosterveld and other endangered species, emphasizing the importance of collective action in protecting the planet’s biodiversity.
Cape Town’s Cultural Gala: The Cape Malay Choir Road March and Tweede Nuwe Jaar Parade
Get ready for a lively start to the New Year in Cape Town with the annual Cape Malay Choir Board Road March and Tweede Nuwe Jaar Minstrel Parade. Over 35 Malay choirs will parade through the city on December 31st, while on January 2nd, approximately 20,000 minstrel performers will entertain crowds of around 80,000 spectators. Both events reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage and its commitment to preserving it for future generations, with safety protocols in place to ensure a smooth experience for all attendees and participants.
In South Africa’s Gauteng province, law enforcement agencies are making progress in their fight against illegal mining operations. Crackdowns in regions such as Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, and West Rand have resulted in over 90 arrests of undocumented foreign nationals, as well as the seizure of illegal mining equipment and the disruption of unlawful infrastructures. The authorities are calling on the community to report any suspicious activities, and their resilience sends a strong message to potential criminals that they are not welcome in Gauteng. Though the battle is challenging, it is a substantial stride towards a safer, lawabiding South Africa.
South African cricket bids farewell to the legendary cricketer, Dean Elgar, who has played 84 Tests and eight OneDay Internationals, scoring over 5,000 runs and 13 centuries. Elgar also served as the Test captain from May 2021 to January 2023, leading South Africa to a series triumph over India in their home ground in January 2022. His legacy inspires aspiring cricketers to represent their nation diligently and face challenges fearlessly. As Elgar retires, a significant era in South African cricket comes to an end, but his invaluable contribution to the game will continue to inspire the next generation.
The festive period in Western Cape has been marred by a tragic loss of 76 lives due to road accidents. The fatalities are not isolated incidents, and the region saw a similar number of deaths last year. Neglecting vehicle maintenance, not wearing seat belts, drunk driving, and speeding are some of the significant contributors to these accidents. The responsibility falls on every road user to make wise choices to ensure safer roads and more joyous holidays.
Social grant scams in South Africa during the holiday season are a rising threat, with fraudsters exploiting the vulnerable and desperate. Scammers use unsolicited messages and counterfeit websites to trick people into giving away their social grant cards or personal information. It’s important to recognize and avoid these scams by staying informed and using only the official social grant website. If you encounter a scam, report it to the police or SASSA hotline number. Being vigilant and following safety protocols can help combat social grant scams and ensure a joyful holiday season.
Cape Town Stadium is gearing up for a historic rugby match between the Stormers and the Bulls. Damian Willemse will be playing fullback for the Stormers, and JeanLuc du Plessis will be playing his 50th game for the team. The match brings the return of Hacjivah Dayimani and the inclusion of Keke Morabe and Willie Engelbrecht on the Stormers’ bench. Head coach John Dobson anticipates a charged atmosphere for what is set to be a fiercely contested match, and the city of Cape Town is united in their support for their teams.
Elton Jantjies, the Springbok flyhalf, has been at the center of controversy and scandal due to accusations of substance abuse, domestic violence, and stalking from his exgirlfriend, Ashleigh Ogle. Despite these allegations, Jantjies has remained silent and seemingly indifferent to the media frenzy surrounding him. His professional success on the rugby field is in stark contrast to his personal life, leaving fans intrigued but uncertain about his future.
Navigating the Haze of Holiday Romance: A Look at Sexuality, Safety and the Festive Spirit
The holiday season can lead to a more relaxed attitude towards safe sex practices, but it’s vital to maintain safe sex practices, whether it’s a holiday fling or sexual activity within a longterm relationship. Regular STI testing, condom usage, and reducing sexual risk factors are crucial for safeguarding oneself and others during the festive season. The holiday season may encourage a sense of spontaneity and thrill that could disrupt usual safety measures, but remember, festive sex doesn’t equate to reckless sex. Let’s celebrate responsibly and safely, with the principles of safe sex never being compromised.
The Premier Soccer League is full of excitement and uncertainty as Zoey Monyepao steps into the spotlight as the new goalkeeper for Kaizer Chiefs, while Sammy Seabi faces an uncertain future with Mamelodi Sundowns. Meanwhile, Edmilson Dove’s contract negotiations add to the intrigue surrounding Kaizer Chiefs’ defense. Each of these storylines weaves together to create a mesmerizing tapestry in the world of football, promising a thrilling ride for fans of the beautiful game.
The Knysna Warbler, a unique bird species in South Africa, was previously assumed to have vanished from the Cape Peninsula, but it has recently resurfaced, causing a stir among bird enthusiasts. The bird is known for its elusive nature and captivating call, and its rediscovery highlights the importance of conservation efforts and habitat preservation. While the species is classified as vulnerable, the presence of a breeding pair is a hopeful sign for its future population on the Cape Peninsula.
Tom Cruise, the famous Hollywood actor, and Russian socialite Elsina Khayrova have been spotted on a romantic date in London’s Winter Wonderland. The couple explored Hyde Park and had an intimate dinner at a luxurious restaurant, complete with a whole floor booked just for them. Their budding romance continues to fascinate the public, with the promise of more exciting developments to come.
Fatima Sydow was a South African celebrity chef who inspired many with her remarkable culinary abilities, infectious zeal, and commitment to promoting her Cape Malay heritage through delectable recipes. Her rise to culinary fame did not alienate her from her roots, and she celebrated the richness of her cultural heritage. Her culinary expertise extended beyond mere cooking and was drenched in love, unity, and connection. Fatima’s legacy continues to inspire in the kitchens and hearts of those who admired her culinary craft.
Steve Barker, the coach of the winning team in the Carling Knockout Cup, values the growth and success of his players above public accolades. He has a playeroriented approach that focuses on generating opportunities, rather than purchasing them. Barker’s commitment to developing unrefined talent into familiar figures has resulted in the growth of players like Andile Jali and Bongani Khumalo, and his current team, Stellies, has served as a launching pad for future stars. His focus on player development and opportunity creation offers a refreshing outlook on football.
The Orlando Pirates earned a welldeserved victory over Golden Arrows, thanks to the strategic prowess of their coach Jose Riveiro, who believes in every player’s potential and values defensive stability. The team’s record of not conceding a goal in open play in 13 league matches is a testament to their dedication and resilience. Riveiro praises the efforts of each player, including Karim Kimvuidi and Katlego Otladisa, who stood out in the recent match, and stresses the importance of progress and refinement for the entire team.