Extortion rackets are causing economic harm to local businesses in Mthatha, South Africa, and disrupting longdistance bus services, affecting the most impoverished members of the community. It is a national concern as it exacerbates poverty and unemployment. A collaborative effort between law enforcement and the community is necessary to confront these criminal organizations. By dismantling the rackets, Mthatha’s economic health and vibrancy can be restored, and a safer and more prosperous future can be secured for South Africa.
Cape Town’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) plays a crucial role in generating employment opportunities and developing skills for its residents. The program has evolved from creating job opportunities to serving as a platform for skills development, enabling recruitment into a variety of fields. The city has invested over R460 million in multiyear skills development projects, providing practical work experience and training for unemployed residents and fostering a more inclusive economy.
The Community, Arts and Culture Department of Cape Town is offering nonprofit organizations the opportunity to apply for GrantsinAid funding amounting to R3 230 046. This funding is dedicated to creative and cultural projects that target young individuals and marginalized groups such as women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. The projects aim to enrich the city’s cultural milieu and enhance the community’s overall wellbeing, with a focus on accessibility and diversity. The city is committed to making cultural and creative activities more accessible, nurturing talent, and promoting cultural activities in neighborhoods.
The V&A Waterfront in Cape Town has undergone a major upgrade, worth R20 billion, transforming it from a functional port into a thriving centre of commerce, hospitality, and tourism. The site has initiated a rezoning application to bring its vision for the Granger Bay area to life, with future plans that include reestablishing public access to the ocean’s edge. The public is encouraged to participate in this process, making it a collaborative endeavour to preserve and improve the city’s iconic site.
Embark on a captivating cultural journey through South Africa’s five cities, each with its own unique blend of history, arts, music, and food. From the cosmopolitan charm of Cape Town to the vibrant metropolis of Johannesburg, the unique cultural blend in Durban, the historic legacy of Pretoria, and the blossoming arts scene in Gqeberha, South Africa is a haven for those who appreciate culture. Explore the rich repository of varying cultures and intriguing histories that create a captivating cultural patchwork waiting to be explored.
South Africa is facing an alarming increase in extortion incidents, affecting not only business owners but also retirees. The crisis is spreading throughout the country, causing daily fear and anxiety. In Mthatha, Eastern Cape, the situation has reached emergency levels, with schools and businesses shutting down due to extortion threats. The Eastern Cape Chamber of Business has demanded new police deployments, and plans to launch a tollfree line for reporting incidents are underway. The situation highlights the urgent need for collective action to restore peace and security and safeguard the human spirit.
South Africa’s oil and energy sector is expected to experience price reductions in August due to a subdued oil price and a stable rand. However, any substantial depreciation of the rand or a rapid rise in oil prices could modify these numbers. The slight reduction in fuel prices reflects the complex interplay of global economic forces, local fiscal strategies, changes in consumer behavior, and technological advancements.
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) in South Africa has demonstrated financial responsibility by returning R580 million to the National Treasury due to the impact of the Covid pandemic, while still achieving 99% of its performance objectives. Under the leadership of Minister Nobuhle Nkabane, the DHET is committed to developing a qualified workforce that contributes to economic expansion through its higher learning institutions. The DHET’s initiatives include resolving legal litigation, prioritizing response to genderbased violence, investing in research and development, and expanding the postsecondary education and training system.
The Presidential Budget Vote of 2024 outlines President Cyril Ramaphosa’s vision for South Africa’s future, with a focus on inclusive growth, job creation, poverty reduction, and ethical, capable, and developmentoriented governance. The government’s strategy involves collaboration and partnership across the public and private sectors, with civic engagement and scientific innovation playing a key role. The Presidency is committed to tackling youth unemployment, genderbased violence and femicide, and implementing initiatives to improve economic and social wellbeing for all South Africans.
The South African Parliament is the heart of democracy in South Africa, promoting unity and active citizen participation. This week, it will host a Joint Sitting of the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces, where President Cyril Ramaphosa will respond to the debate on his Parliament Opening Address. The event will take place in a makeshift chamber in a parking lot, showcasing the adaptability of democratic processes and ensuring media coverage and public participation. The Parliament plays a significant role in shaping the dynamic landscape of South African politics, with prominent individuals like Mr. Vuyolwethu Zungula representing the nation’s values.
The Parliament of South Africa recently published a detailed account of a week’s activities, offering a captivating glimpse into the intricate mechanisms of the country’s democratic institutions. From budgetary dialogues to committee meetings, the events demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public participation and a dedication to democracy. The week’s happenings underscored the remarkable range and depth of Parliament’s tasks, exemplifying the commitment to democracy within South Africa’s legislative body, a foundational principle of the nation’s governance.
Escape the winter blues in Cape Town with a range of exciting events. From tribute concerts to Abba and the Beatles, to a celebration of vineyards at the Wild Fig Winter Wine Festival, there is something for everyone. Swing and 80s parties are also on offer, as well as a Shakespearean classic revisited. These events promise warmth, happiness, and cultural immersion during the chilly winter season.
The Minister of Tourism in South Africa, Patricia de Lille, aims to make tourism a crucial driver of economic progression and job provision in the country. Her vision is outlined in the National Development Plan and Tourism Sector Master Plan, which highlight the potential for skill enrichment, job formation, income generation, and sustainable community growth. Initiatives include a maintenance program for national parks, a national Air Access Strategy, and visa waivers. The tourism sector in South Africa is constantly evolving, and de Lille’s commitment to her role as Minister of Tourism is commendable.
Zulfah Hartley, founder of Auburn Botanicals, has become a rising star in local entrepreneurship with a natural health and beauty business that offers relief to women aged 30 and over from menopausal symptoms. Auburn Botanicals gained momentum through the City’s Urban Waste Management Expanded Public Works Programme, which provides budding entrepreneurs with experience, mentorship, and peer advice. Hartley’s vision for Auburn Botanicals includes broadening her product line and stepping into wellness services such as massages.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa spoke at the 2024 Climate Resilience Symposium in Tshwane, emphasizing the tangible impact of climate change, the economic consequences and opportunities, and the societal dimensions of the issue. He called for a managed transition to a lowcarbon economy, investing in green infrastructure, and accelerating decarbonization efforts, while also highlighting South Africa’s commitment to attaining net zero emissions by 2050 and called for a nationwide effort to construct a climateresilient country. Ramaphosa’s speech was a call to action for urgent collective action towards building a sustainable future.
Cape Town is buzzing with excitement for the UEFA European Football Championship finals, with numerous bars and eateries preparing to broadcast the match. Fireman’s Arms offers a traditional Britishthemed environment with pub food and drink deals, while Hudsons Burger Joint is a gastronomic haven for football enthusiasts. Mojo Market offers an exhaustive culinary experience, Foresters Arms has a charming blend of history and gastronomy, and Speakeasy Saloon invites visitors for pregame wine tasting. Vasco da Gama Taverna is a sports hotspot with a cultural twist, while Furley’s Bar & Grill offers a familyfriendly experience. Lastly, Kapstadt Brauhaus and Mitchell’s Scottish Ale House provide a nod to German and Scottish cuisine, respectively.