Cape Town has been experiencing a surge in trafficrelated offences, with over 2,300 incidents reported in just one weekend. These included traffic accidents, arrests, and fines being issued. Law enforcement officers have been targeting traffic violations to ensure public safety, with a particular focus on drunk driving. While the increase in traffic incidents is worrying, heightened awareness and law enforcement efforts can help reduce the risks associated with driving and public safety.
The South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment recently granted French energy company TotalEnergies permission to conduct offshore drilling for natural gas and oil off the Cape Coast. The decision is contentious, with critics concerned about the environmental risks, including noise and light pollution and oil spills, as well as potential impacts on local communities that depend on fishing and tourism. Supporters argue that the project could yield economic benefits and address the country’s energy crisis. The ongoing debate highlights the complexity of balancing energy development, environmental preservation, and social dynamics.
Eskom, South Africa’s largest electricity utility, is on the hunt for a new CEO to guide the company through a period of significant change and challenges. The search has been global, with 147 candidates initially considered and ongoing scrutiny of the Memorandum of Incorporation (MOI) requiring the submission of three appointable candidates. The new CEO will need a range of skills to tackle the urgent issues facing the power company, including incorporating renewable energy sources, upgrading aging infrastructure, and rebuilding trust among employees, customers, and the broader South African public.
MEC Siboniso Duma is empowering rural youth and boosting tourism in KwaZuluNatal with the Somopho Hills Adventure Park quadbike initiative. The park, founded by young entrepreneur Lungani Mthembu, immerses visitors in Zulu heritage and creates employment opportunities for locals. The government is committed to supporting the tourism industry, and KZN has secured the rights to host the XIX World Water Conference in 2025. With special deals and attractions available, tourists are encouraged to plan their vacations in KZN and contribute to the growth and development of the province.
Take a moment to appreciate the teachers in your life during Teacher Appreciation Month. The ThankaTeacher campaign encourages us to show our gratitude for the mentors who shape our lives and guide us through the world of learning. By sharing messages, videos, drawings, or photos on social media with the hashtag ThankaTeacher, we can collectively honor these dedicated educators who play a vital role in our lives. Let us remember to recognize and cherish their invaluable contributions.
Cape Town is leading the way in solar energy adoption, with a recordbreaking number of solar PV installation applications submitted in August 2023. The city is developing a userfriendly online application portal and introducing measures to tackle substandard systems. Mayor Geordin HillLewis is dedicated to making solar adoption more attainable for households, and the city has ambitious goals and incentive programs. This solar revolution represents a global shift towards clean and sustainable energy solutions, and Cape Town’s approach ensures that its solar market will continue to shine brightly for years to come.
The minibus taxi task team in Cape Town has successfully negotiated a resolution to ensure uninterrupted transportation services for the Western Cape. Following over four weeks of negotiations, the City of Cape Town, the Western Cape government, and Santaco Western Cape united to prioritize the needs of the people and address the concerns of taxi operators. The parties will now focus on implementing the agreed resolutions and refining operating license conditions to ensure they are fair, rational, and support the sustainability of the taxi industry.
The march, which has been granted official permission for a peaceful demonstration, offers a platform for the EFF and its supporters to express their concerns and aspirations for social and political transformation. It is also an opportunity for artists and creatives within the city to engage with the political landscape and inspire new forms of artistic expression, highlighting the complex relationship between politics, society, and art in Cape Town.
Rocking the Daisies festival, known for its celebration of music and community, faced unprecedented challenges due to extreme weather conditions and flooding in the Western Cape. After careful consideration, the festival was postponed to November 2023, with a commitment to safety and support for affected communities. Despite setbacks, the festival’s lineup remains largely unchanged, and organizers are working diligently to minimize disruptions. The resilience and unity of the festival’s community, including title partner Johnnie Walker, have demonstrated the power of music and art in overcoming adversity.
The Saldanha Industrial Development Zone in South Africa is set to become a hub for economic growth with the completion of a new access road. The road is part of a larger infrastructure investment project worth R2.25 billion and is expected to increase economic activity and revenue in the region. The Saldanha IDZ has already contributed significantly to economic development and job creation, and ongoing infrastructure projects are expected to continue driving progress and prosperity in the area.
The Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha is determined to vaccinate 250 dogs against rabies within 24 hours as World Rabies Day approaches. The clinic has detected rabiesinfected dogs in the area and is appealing to the public to sponsor a dog for R50 to cover expenses for needles, syringes, and gloves. The initiative exemplifies the power of community action, collaboration among local organizations, and public support in curbing the spread of infectious diseases and preserving the health and wellbeing of both animals and humans in the community.
South Africa’s Department of Employment and Labour has proposed the BRICS Productivity Ecosystem for Decent Work Platform, which has been unanimously approved by all member nations. The platform aims to stimulate economic growth, sustainability, and job creation by encouraging cooperation and the exchange of knowledge among its member countries. The ecosystem embodies a dedication to social justice and fairness, recognizing the significance of decent work, dignity, and respect for all as integral components of sustainable development. The success of this ambitious initiative hinges on the mutual commitment and active involvement of all participating countries.
The 20th USsubSaharan Africa Trade and Economic Cooperation Forum is set to take place in Johannesburg from November 24, 2023. The forum will bring together representatives to discuss strategies for enhancing trade and investment between the US and subSaharan Africa, and promote economic growth and development. The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) will also play a critical role in spurring economic growth and fostering reform, as it provides dutyfree access to the US market for over 1,800 products from eligible subSaharan African countries. The event will also feature a ‘Made in Africa Exhibition,’ showcasing regional value chains on the continent.
As the global economic landscape continues to shift, the BRICS coalition (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) has stepped up to address the challenges faced by workers. Siboniso Duma, the MEC for Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs, has urged labor experts, senior government officials, and delegates at the BRICS Employment Working Group to adopt a resolution outlining a clear action plan to reduce the debt burden plaguing numerous workers.
South Africa is facing a series of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5 and H7 outbreaks, which pose a significant threat to the country’s poultry industry. As of September 21, 2023, the nation has recorded 50 HPAI H7 outbreaks and 10 HPAI H5 outbreaks, resulting in substantial losses within the poultry sector. This article discusses the actions undertaken by the South African Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development to tackle these outbreaks and mitigate their impact on the industry.
In the quaint town of Calitzdorp, situated along the famous Route 62 in South Africa, Gielie Basson has embarked on a daring pursuit. His objective? To surpass the current Guinness World Record for the longest braai, which currently stands at 80 hours. Basson’s exceptional journey takes place at Zamani Grill, affectionately known as ‘The Smallest Bar’ on Route 62, where he intends to braai for an incredible 84 hours nonstop.