Hannah Kriel

South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr. Naledi Pandor, recently visited Zambia to reinforce diplomatic ties between the two nations. Discussions focused on pressing regional, continental, and international issues, as well as the preparations for the Inaugural Session of the BiNational Commission (BNC). The BNC’s goal is to foster collaboration and coordination across various sectors, including trade and investment, education and skills development, health, agriculture, and energy, to promote socioeconomic growth and advancement for both countries.

The Tshivhase Day celebration in South Africa recently honored the life and legacy of His Majesty Mailausumbwa Rasimphi ‘Phiriphiri’ Frans Tshivhase, a prominent figure in South African history. He was a firm advocate for equality, resisting apartheid policies and fighting for justice and national unity. His acts of kindness and service remind us of the importance of assisting others. South Africans can draw inspiration from his experiences and continue working towards a more just and prosperous nation.

South Africa has condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza, accusing the Israeli government of deliberately depriving Gazans of vital resources such as food, water, electricity, and fuel. The Fourth Geneva Convention provides protection for civilians in conflict zones and occupied territories, including protection from murder, torture, and discrimination. Israel’s recent directive ordering 1.1 million Gazans to relocate to the south is poised to worsen the disaster, and the UN has called for vital lifesaving supplies to be allowed into Gaza.

Cape Town is fighting against infrastructure vandalism and theft to protect essential assets that ensure lighting, safety, and security for its residents and visitors. The City has a zerotolerance stance against criminal conduct and has established several preventative initiatives to pinpoint and reinforce infrastructure hotspots. The City encourages public participation by providing rewards for information that leads to arrests or the seizure of stolen and illicit goods. Thanks to the combined efforts of committed teams, Cape Town is determined to defend its infrastructure from vandalism and theft, ensuring the welfare of its people.

Cape Town’s local administration has launched a campaign called “Enough is Enough! Genoeg is Genoeg! Kwanele!” to combat extortion and protect the city’s infrastructure projects. The campaign involves cooperation among city authorities, the police, and the community, with a 24hour helpline and reward system set up to encourage citizens to report any extortion incidents. The campaign aims to identify and apprehend extortionists by rallying public support and forging partnerships with local communities.

The title deeds initiative in Cape Town provides secure tenure and opportunities to those who need it most. On October 11, 2023, 20 title deeds were presented to beneficiaries of delayed transfer properties in the Mitchells Plain region, unlocking a world of possibilities and a promising future. By bestowing these title deeds, the City enables its citizens as property owners, offering secure tenure and the opportunity to create a life filled with purpose and potential. This program benefits not only individual homeowners but also uplifts communities and fortifies the city’s socioeconomic fabric.