Cape Town’s Cape Winelands Airport is undergoing a massive $460 million expansion, with plans to extend a runway to 3,500m and become the most ecofriendly airport in the world. The project is expected to create 60,000 new jobs and serve as a backup for Cape Town International during emergencies, reducing carbon emissions and conserving fuel. The expansion is set to transform Cape Town’s skyline, bringing economic growth and environmental responsibility to the forefront.
Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate is investing in advanced mechanical filtration screens to upgrade its sewer pump station infrastructure, with a total investment of R8.1 million. These custommade screens act as a barrier against large objects that should not enter the sewer system and reduce the risk of overflows. The screens are easy to operate and are being installed at various pump stations across the city. This ongoing initiative aims to protect infrastructure and the urban environment, enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Cape Town’s proposed budget for 2024/25 focuses on promoting social inclusivity and economic advancement. The city’s social package, tailored to the needs of the underprivileged, retirees, and general citizenry, is unmatched among South Africa’s metropolitan regions. The budget sets aside a significant chunk of its capital budget for infrastructure development, concentrating on the poorest and fastestgrowing areas, and is expected to yield approximately 130,000 constructionrelated jobs over the next three years. Cape Town’s commitment to cultivating an environment of inclusivity and economic expansion serves as a model of progress.
‘Just Now Jeffrey’, a South African film directed by Hylton Tannenbaum, is gaining global recognition for its unfiltered portrayal of Apartheidera South Africa. The movie explores teenage issues against the backdrop of political turmoil, providing an authentic glimpse into the country’s complexities. Despite being produced independently, the film has been showcased at the Beverly Hills Film Festival and is set to be featured at other festivals around the world.
South Africa’s NHI Bill has been approved by the president and aims to offer universal quality healthcare to all citizens by consolidating resources from taxpayers. The bill promises to enroll all South Africans, including pensioners, in a unified funding system by 2024, ensuring extensive healthcare coverage. However, concerns have been raised about the potential pressure on government finances and the sustainability of SASSA grants. The execution of the bill is fraught with uncertainties, but if successful, it could bring a favorable transformation to the SASSA grants and alleviate financial strain on the country’s most vulnerable citizens.
Makhaza Police Station in South Africa has launched Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) to prevent vehicle theft. The station offers a wide range of law enforcement services to maintain community safety and order, and is a significant step towards bringing services closer to communities and intensifying crime control initiatives. The adoption of ANPR technology is part of a countrywide rollout aimed at tracking down criminals and combating vehicle theft more effectively. The construction of another police station further advances the police ministry’s mission of accessible services and symbolizes a positive step forward in the fight against crime.
Cape Town is ushering in a new era of affordable housing with the Bonteheuwel Infill housing project, which will provide 273 modern housing units by the end of 2025. The project is a symbol of the city’s dedication to providing dignity and human settlements for its citizens, with a fair and transparent allocation process. This architectural marvel embodies the Breaking New Ground statesubsidised houses and is a beacon of hope for future housing schemes, driving Cape Town closer to its objective of becoming a city for all.
South African art is on the rise, with artists like Irma Stern and Alexis Preller gaining global recognition. The Evening Sale at Strauss & Co in Johannesburg on May 28th, 2024 features many pieces highlighting the diversity and talent of South African artists. This auction offers a comprehensive overview of South African art, tracing its roots through to the present day, and signifies a crucial stride in the international restoration of South Africa’s historical artists.
Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue Hazmat Team responded to a distress call regarding a container of radioactive material found at a scrapyard. With their expertise and stateoftheart technology, they followed strict procedures to evaluate the risk and remove the waste safely. Their professionalism was crucial in handling this potentially catastrophic nuclear incident, highlighting their commitment to public safety and making them the city’s protectors.
The 17th Annual South African Sports Awards honored the exceptional achievements of South African athletes and teams, with the Springboks dominating the evening by winning multiple awards. The event celebrated individual triumphs within the team, including Siya Kolisi winning ‘Sports Star of the Year’ and ‘People’s Choice of the Year’, and Eben Etzebeth winning ‘Sportsman of the Year’. Beyond rugby, the ceremony also acknowledged notable achievements in women’s sports and highlighted the crucial role sport plays in nationbuilding. The event stood as a testament to the collective South African spirit and the exceptional performances of its athletes and teams.
Leon Schuster, a beloved comedian in South Africa, faced a careerthreatening injury while shooting a movie, which led to physical wounds and depression. He is now preparing for another surgery to fix a loose screw that has been causing him sleepless nights and fear. Despite these hardships, Schuster’s resilience and positivity remain intact. His career spanning multiple decades has set the stage for many aspiring local artists, and his multifaceted talents as an actor, singer, filmmaker, and comedian have made him a beloved figure in South Africa.
Explore Cape Town’s wine wonderland with tours like the Stellenbosch Wine Tour by Wine Flies, the Franschhoek Wine Tram, the Constantia Wine Tour, and the Cape Point Vineyards Tour. These tours take visitors on a sensory journey, showcasing a variety of wineries, wine types, and educational opportunities. From verdant vineyards to awardwinning wines, these tours offer an unforgettable experience that explores Cape Town’s magical wine heritage.
The Water System Maintenance and Upgrade Program is an important initiative led by the Water and Sanitation Directorate of our city. It includes planned works such as zeropressure tests and conditional assessments, maintenance activities, and infrastructure upgrades aimed at ensuring future water supply continuity and reducing water waste. Although these works may cause temporary inconvenience, they are being performed for our welfare and sustainability. Residents are encouraged to store sufficient water in clean, sealed containers and keep their taps shut during the disruptions.
Afrikaans singer Dirk van der Westhuizen has been battling Human Rhinovirus/Enterovirus, which causes severe headaches, body aches, and disorientation. There is no specific cure for this virus, and Dirk has been relying on painkillers and physiotherapy to alleviate his symptoms. Despite also being diagnosed with sleep apnea, Dirk remains optimistic and continues to inspire his followers to prioritize their health and maintain a positive outlook. His journey serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of health and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.
James Norbury is a talented filmmaker, photographer, and ultrarunner who narrowly escaped a dangerous confrontation with fire while tackling the 14km Box to Box Challenge on Table Mountain. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of being prepared and maintaining situational awareness when exploring the wilderness. Norbury’s experience highlights the delicate balance between man and nature, emphasizing the need for respect, awareness, and readiness.
Percy Montgomery is a rugby legend known for his tactical brilliance, remarkable career statistics, and impact on South Africa’s rugby heritage. With 102 caps and 893 points for the Springboks, he is one of the nation’s most celebrated players. Montgomery’s postplaying career ventures include coaching and stepping into the tequila business, making him a potent symbol of South Africa’s rich rugby heritage. His continued journey remains exciting and full of adventure, a true maverick on and off the field.
