In the face of rapid urbanization, cities across the globe are continuously evolving. Cape Town is no exception, as it recently embarked on a journey to revise its Urban Design Policy. This ambitious initiative aims to provide guidance for creating functional, attractive, safe, environmentally sustainable, economically viable, and socially equitable spaces. As the city gathers feedback from its residents, this article explores the principles and objectives of this revised policy and examines its potential impact on the urban landscape and its inhabitants.
The North West Province in South Africa is on the brink of an extraordinary transformation as various local businesses, multinational organizations, and government entities pledge over 100 billion worth of investments. This comes after the recent Premier’s Dinner with investors, held at the Sun City Superbowl, which aimed to accelerate the coordination of investments in the region. Acting Premier Nono Maloyi, along with Members of the Executive Council, Executive Mayors, senior government managers, and StateOwned Enterprises representatives, led the charge.
In a groundbreaking effort to enhance the connection between the City of Cape Town and the communities it serves, the local government has introduced its Mobile Office initiative. This program is designed to bring municipal services closer to the residents of Wolwerivier, Nomzamo, Macassar, Lotus River, and Blackheath by establishing temporary offices in various community halls and municipal buildings. In addition to providing access to the City’s Basket of Services and engaging with Human Settlements staff, the initiative encourages residents to take advantage of these offerings.
Ensuring Groundwater Security and Sustainability: Global Experts Convene at 50[th International Association of Hydrogeologists Congress in Cape Town](https://capetown.today/south-africas-water-sector-joins-global-innovators-for-a-water-wise-future-at-world-water-week-conference-2023)
In an era where water scarcity is a growing concern, identifying alternative water sources and promoting sustainable management of groundwater resources is essential. Acknowledging the pressing nature of this issue, the International Association of Hydrogeologists (IAH) hosted its 50th Worldwide Congress, officially inaugurated by Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, Mr. David Mahlobo, in Cape Town from September 18 to 22, 2023.
TEARS Animal Rescue offers a unique volunteering opportunity for animal enthusiasts looking to make a difference in the lives of shelter animals. The Pimp My Shelter event invites volunteers to revamp the shelter’s kennels and cattery, creating a more welcoming environment for the animals.
A Disquieting Encounter: The Shooting of a Homeless Man and the Unraveling of a Fateful Day
In January 2022, a Cape Town law enforcement officer, Luvolwethu Kati, allegedly shot and killed a homeless man, Dumisani Joxo, in the Rondebosch area. The incident has since been the subject of a murder trial, with Kati’s colleague, Unathi Govuza, providing a harrowing account of the events that unfolded that day.
Swellendam, a charming Western Cape town in South Africa, has been embroiled in heated disputes over electricity tariff hikes and the municipality’s indigent policy. These tensions culminated in the torching of municipal offices and looting of shops on August 16th.
In honor of International Literacy Month, a group of philanthropic organizations teamed up to promote reading among children in Cape Town. GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World, a nonprofit organization called Living Through Learning, and Miss South Africa Natasha Joubert spearheaded the initiative.
A Talented Young Dancer to Represent South Africa at the Hip Hop Unite World Championships
Micah Jacobs is an exceptional dancer from Mitchells Plain who is set to represent South Africa in the Youth Solo Battles Division at the Hip Hop Unite World Championships in Portugal. Despite being only 11 years old, Micah has already demonstrated her talent for dance, which was noticed when she was just 7.
On August 30th, a mother narrowly escaped a terrifying road rage incident in Durbanville when a man fired shots at her vehicle, just moments before she was scheduled to pick up her children from school. The incident occurred near Wellington Road and has gained significant attention on social media.
In Ocean View, South Africa, a group of parents has taken a proactive step towards their children’s bright future. These parents have completed an eightweek educational program aimed at empowering them to better support their children’s language and early literacy skills.
In a case that has rocked the community of Khayelitsha, Solomon Mazamela, a 58yearold foster parent, has been found guilty of sexually abusing his foster daughter for six years. ### The Rape of a Foster Daughter
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA, in partnership with the City of Cape Town’s Law Enforcement Animal Control Unit, is making a stand against animal cruelty by addressing a group of five children who were allegedly involved in a harrowing dog fighting incident in Cape Town’s Retreat area. This action highlights the need for increased awareness and measures to prevent the illegal and brutal practice of dog fighting.
Cape Town Air Access and Wesgro Study Reveals Economic Impact of International Travelers
Cape Town Air Access and Wesgro have jointly released new data highlighting the significant contribution of international travelers to the local economy. The collaborative project aims to boost the city’s aviation industry, and the Western Cape’s tourism, trade, and investment promotion agency, respectively. The study shows that air travel remains crucial to the local economy, with its farreaching influence on job creation, direct tourism spending, GDP expansion, and air cargo logistics.
Luyanda Fuzile, the primary suspect in the tragic murder of Sergeant Nameto Molema and the attempted murder of his colleague, Malibongwe Mnani, has recently entered a guilty plea in court. The incident, which occurred in 2021 during a robbery at GR Spices in the Killarney factory zone, has left a lasting impact on the community and the families of the victims.
A pivotal legal battle is currently underway in South Africa, with significant implications for the future regulation of mining in the country, particularly environmental approvals and public participation. ## The Challenged Mining Rights