Cape Town Mayor Geordin HillLewis has written to Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, urging him to maintain municipal grant funding, specifically housing conditional grants, in the upcoming midterm budget speech. The mayor disagrees with the proposed R100 million decrease in these grants and proposes that cuts should be made in nonessential government departments and expenditures. He emphasizes the need to prioritize spending that directly benefits the poor and encourages the Minister to reconsider the proposed cuts. The mayor also calls for increased Equitable Share for the city and social rental housing subsidies.
Cuddley Bears ECD Centre in Kraaifontein is taking part in Cape Town’s SpringCleanCT campaign, which aims to tackle littering and waste disposal. The children and staff have joined forces to clean up their neighborhood and were praised by Alderman Grant Twigg for their efforts. Their actions serve as an inspiring example of community involvement and show that even the smallest hands can contribute to significant change. By fostering a sense of responsibility and guardianship for the environment, we can lay the foundation for a more sustainable and cleaner Cape Town, ensuring a brighter future for generations ahead.
South Africa has a new public holiday, 15 December, which represents hope and unity. President Cyril Ramaphosa recognized the people’s desire for a day of relief, while also emphasizing the need to prioritize matric exams. The holiday symbolizes a day when the nation can come together in celebration and contemplation, dedicated to constructing a better South Africa. In his speech, President Ramaphosa also emphasized the remarkable ability of sports to unite people, and highlighted urgent issues such as corruption, infrastructure, and economic growth. This day serves as a powerful symbol of hope and unity for South Africa.
The Welisizwe Bridges Project, a collaboration between the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), and the Provincial Departments of Transport, is an ambitious threeyear initiative with a R3.3 billion budget allocation to build 134 bridges across six provinces in rural South Africa. The project not only provides access to essential services but also creates numerous employment opportunities through the Expanded Public Works Programme, offering valuable skills to the workforce. The initiative symbolizes the government’s dedication to addressing inequality and improving the wellbeing of its citizens, serving as a blueprint for similar programs in other countries.
Discover the enchanting city of Cape Town through its art, food, and entertainment in this feature that highlights the city’s vibrant culture, stunning views, and exciting events. Join foraging workshops at Veld & Sea, heed the warnings about smashandgrab incidents, and celebrate the rebirth of South African Airways. Delight in the return of beloved fish spreads at Pick n Pay and indulge in the culinary creations of Franschhoek Creates. Don’t miss out on the Galileo Open Air Cinema and the sweet gift given to rugby star Ox Nche.
The Springboks won their fourth Rugby World Cup victory with a heartstopping 1211 win against the All Blacks. The victory was not just a sports achievement, but a symbol of hope, unity, and national pride for South Africa. Fans showed their elation on social media, and the Springboks’ triumph serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance, grit, and unity in the human spirit. It also shows the beauty and power of sports to inspire, unite, and create lasting memories.
The Langa Sports Complex in South Africa is undergoing a R4 million renovation project aimed at fostering community development and athletic prowess. The initiative by the City’s Recreation and Parks Department includes upgrades to fencing, field rehabilitation, and maintenance plan, with the aim of establishing a secure and accessible environment for sports and recreation. The project serves as a significant investment in Langa’s future and sporting success, with the complex boasting a rich legacy of nurturing national athletes, including Thabo Mngomeni, Themba Bavuma, Thami Tsolekile, and Sinazo Mcatshulwa.
South Africa’s education system is getting a revamp through the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill, which focuses on making the system more inclusive, equitable, and efficient. The bill addresses administrative challenges such as admissions policies and financial accountability systems while promoting inclusivity for learners with special needs. Despite controversy surrounding false information about the bill, it remains a vital step in transforming the country’s basic education landscape and laying the groundwork for a more equitable and efficient education system.
South Africa is facing a food insecurity crisis due to high food prices and waste. Onethird of all food produced in the country is wasted, leading to the loss of more than 10 million tons of consumable food annually. Simplifying date labels and potentially extending “best before” dates can reduce food waste and improve food security. Organizations like FoodForward SA are working to redirect surplus food to vulnerable segments of society, contributing to a more sustainable and fair food system for all citizens.
Dr. Mariëtte Wheeler, a Life Sciences teacher at Protea Heights Academy, has been named one of the top 10 finalists for the Global Teacher Prize. The prestigious award recognises outstanding educators around the world, and Dr. Wheeler’s innovative teaching techniques and dedication to education have landed her a spot among the best. As she competes for the ultimate prize, her journey serves as an inspiration to educators everywhere, showing that exceptional teachers have the power to transform lives.
The 2023 Women Recognition Awards celebrates female farmers’ invaluable contributions to rural development, food security, and job creation. Women in agriculture have defied the status quo and made remarkable progress, from smallscale subsistence farmers to commercial agripreneurs. Initiatives and programs have been implemented to support female farmers, providing them with access to training, funding, and mentorship opportunities. As the world faces the challenges of feeding an expanding population, the Women Recognition Awards is a celebration of progress and an acknowledgment of the integral role women play in shaping agriculture’s future.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile participated in a National Council of Provinces (NCOP) plenary sitting, addressing important national and international issues, such as enhancing the distribution of social grants and revitalizing infrastructure in the agricultural sector to improve food security. The NCOP event is one of the ways Parliament holds the Executive accountable for their performance. The National Assembly also held a hybrid plenary session, reviewing committee reports, and the media and public can access these meetings through various channels.
The K9 and Rural Safety Units of Western Cape Police Oversight and Community Safety in Swartland, Overstrand, and Mossel Bay made impressive progress in capturing a total of 65 individuals for various criminal offenses from 16 to 22 October 2023. The units seized illegal items such as abalone, West Coast Rock Lobster (WCRL), drugs, and stolen vehicles. These achievements align with the Western Cape Government’s commitment to ensuring increased safety across the province and showcase the potential for collaborative efforts in addressing criminal activities.
The AGOA Forum Made in Africa Exhibition is an exciting event that creates opportunities for businesses to connect with African exporters and establish international partnerships that contribute to growth and success. Held in Johannesburg, attendees can network, explore new markets, and contribute to the advancement of global trade and investments. The event embodies the objectives of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), and its B2B Sourcing and Investment Programme enables the exploration of new products, broadens market access, and endorses international partnerships. Businesses will build lasting partnerships and shape the global landscape, contributing to a brighter future for Africa and beyond.
Sea Walls: Artists for Oceans is bringing together international and South African mural artists to create educational murals promoting marine conservation in Cape Town. The weeklong program includes outreach to local schools, selfguided tours of the murals, and a coastal cleanup. The initiative aims to encourage ocean stewardship through visual storytelling and creativity while addressing environmental challenges. PangeaSeed Foundation, supported by the Save Our Seas Foundation, is commemorating two decades of marine conservation by adding to their collection of over 500 murals across 19 countries.
Kris Jenner is reportedly interested in having Prince Harry and Meghan Markle appear on the Kardashians’ Hulu show, sparking conversations about the merging of two distinct worlds. The royal couple’s departure from royal duties and their multimilliondollar deal with Netflix have kept them in the limelight, while their potential collaboration with the Kardashians presents an intriguing possibility. In addition, the couple is reportedly house hunting in the United Kingdom, indicating a desire for a second home and the continuation of their unique path.