Businesses in Elsies River can ensure waste disposal compliance by implementing an Integrated Waste Management Plan (IWMP), covering all aspects of waste management and setting targets for waste recovery. Recently, a comprehensive audit of local businesses was conducted to ensure compliance with the IWMP. Noncompliance can lead to penalties. Residents are encouraged to report any irregularities to a dedicated call centre, and businesses seeking assistance can use an online portal to create their IWMP. The recent operation in Elsies River serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility of maintaining a clean and sustainable city.
The Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium (SIDSSA) is a platform for investment in South Africa’s infrastructure, with a focus on sustainable development. The 2024 symposium brought together a diverse group of participants, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, who emphasized the economic and societal benefits of infrastructure investment. South Africa is pursuing reforms to attract private sector funding and is implementing ambitious initiatives, such as a green hydrogen program. The country is also looking to broaden its infrastructure development beyond its borders through regional integration.
Cape Town has introduced an online solar PV authorization portal that has already authorized over 5,000 solar PV systems, contributing 126 MVA to the city’s energy grid. The innovative platform significantly reduces the time taken to authorize solar PV systems, ensuring safety measures within the energy sector. The Energy Services Application automates the issuance of Permission to Install Letters for specific types of applications, including smallscale residential solar PV and battery systems, and is available via eServices. The increasing demand for solar PV in Cape Town is evident, with the number of monthly applications tripling from 2021 to 2023.
The *world of British aristocracy* is full of whispers and rumors, one of which involves Prince William and Rose Hanbury, the Marchioness of Cholmondeley. While unverified reports suggest an extramarital affair between the two, Hanbury denies the allegations. Hanbury, a socialite and mother married to the seventh Marquess of Cholmondeley, finds herself under public scrutiny due to insidious gossip probing her loyalty, serving as a reminder of the influence of public opinion and the power of storytelling in our society.
The National Business Initiative (NBI) and the City of Cape Town have launched a program to enhance artisan skills in learners, with 31 students accommodated by the Facilities Management department for handson training. The initiative is a breakthrough for ambitious young learners seeking to hone their artisan skills and serves as a guiding light for the sector. The program is a stepping stone towards eradicating barriers to economic involvement in the city, with a vision to expand and polish the artisan skills of learners for future employment in the field.
Cape Town has ranked number one in the Governance Performance Index, setting the standard for metropolitan cities across South Africa. The city excels in the five essential indicators of governance, including service delivery and economic development, and is the only metropolitan city to score at least four on each measure. Cape Town’s consistent performance is reflected across several reports and indices highlighting its financial transparency, sustainability, and dedication to public service. The city remains an inspiration for other cities, paving the way for good governance that can be achieved with persistence and strategic planning.
The murder of former South African soccer captain Senzo Meyiwa has drawn intense public interest, with singer Kelly Khumalo at the center of allegations. Accused contract killer Bongani Ntanzi claims Khumalo was the mastermind behind Meyiwa’s assassination. Despite Ntanzi’s confessions being disputed, Khumalo’s involvement with one of the suspects has sparked outrage on social media. As the trial continues, the truth and justice for Meyiwa’s death remain elusive, but Khumalo’s supporters stand by her amidst the storm.
10yearold North West, daughter of Kanye West and Kim Kardashian, recently unveiled her debut album “Elementary School Dropout” at her father’s album preview event. With a massive following on TikTok, North West’s musical journey showcases a blend of traditional lineage and modern innovation, paying tribute to Kanye West’s debut album “The College Dropout”. While the title of her album has sparked mixed reactions on social media, North West’s talent and potential for monetization on TikTok are undeniable.
Misinformation is a growing concern in the digital age, particularly when it involves critical public amenities like water supply. The recent Tshwane water scare incident in South Africa highlighted the severity of this issue, as a fake notification about contaminated water caused panic among the public. The City of Tshwane responded proactively to dismiss the false alarm, emphasizing the importance of authenticating information and relying on reliable sources. The incident serves as a reminder for every citizen to combat the spread of false information and stay updated through trustworthy channels.
The 2024 Sector Lekgotla in South Africa is a significant event in the country’s pursuit of academic excellence. Led by Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga, the event integrates insights from international and regional assessments to improve the quality of elementary education. The Lekgotla signifies a shared commitment to carve a future for South African education that is anchored in equity, efficiency, quality, inclusivity, and sustainability, and offers a platform to envisage a future for South African education typified by these values. The event is addressed by the honorable President Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa, whose distinguished political career serves as an inspiration to participants.
Kensington in Cape Town is undergoing a major infrastructure transformation, moving from overhead electricity lines to an underground system. This project involves replacing over 5,500 metres of overhead electricity conductors and 42 transmission poles with 5,315 metres of underground cabling. The project is set to improve the reliability of infrastructure, area aesthetics, and safety. It is projected to be completed by April 2024 and is part of the City of Cape Town’s efforts to mitigate chronic loadshedding and rampant vandalism. The benefits of transitioning to an underground power infrastructure are manifold, including enhanced reliability, improved safety, and boosted visual appeal.
Angelina Jolie will have primary custody of her and Brad Pitt’s children, according to a recent agreement. Pitt has consented to the arrangement, indicating a willingness to move forward. Despite ongoing legal battles, Pitt is hopeful about his future with girlfriend Ines de Ramon, while Jolie is focused on safeguarding their children’s wellbeing. Their story serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges of living in the public eye and the resilience of the human spirit during personal crises.
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) suffered huge financial losses due to a corrupt deal with Vossloh and Swifambo Rail Leasing for 70 unsuitable locomotives. The Supreme Court deemed the contract corrupt, but investigations into the deal are ongoing. Vossloh greatly benefited from the deal, transforming the company’s financial future while leaving PRASA and South African commuters to suffer the consequences. The investigation into the scandal is slow and complex, and unresolved questions remain, presenting a formidable challenge for the revival of South Africa’s rail system.
Cape Town is fiercely committed to preserving its environment, showcased by the Water and Sanitation Directorate’s Water Pollution Control team’s campaign against unlawful stormwater system connections and discharges. Over the past year, the team inspected over 12,000 properties, issuing 159 violation notices and disconnecting 40 illegal connections. Future plans include continuing inspections and enforcing the correction of illegal connections and discharges. Cape Town’s unwavering dedication to conservation serves as a shining beacon of respect for both current and future generations.
Moedi Wines, a South African wine brand led by Lesego Serolong Holzapfel, gained international recognition at ProWein 2024 in Germany. The brand promotes sustainable practices, African heritage, and local communities, and donates 10% of its profits to support honey farmers and scholarships for orphans in rural areas. With a range of single varietals from the Swartland region, Moedi Wines offers highquality wine while supporting rural beekeepers and promoting biodiversity.
Unrest erupted in Vredenburg as the community demanded justice for a missing sixyearold boy. The crowd outside the courthouse grew increasingly agitated, resulting in chaos and injuries as the police responded with rubber bullets and stun grenades. The incident will be investigated, with video evidence playing a crucial role while the disruption caused a delay in court proceedings, highlighting the impact of the community’s battle for justice.