The trial of alleged assassins Yanga Nyalara and Wandile Tofile at the Goodwood Prison courtroom has been complicated by the Covid19 pandemic. A witness was proposed to testify behind a surgical mask, with testimonies being relayed through CCTV to ensure their safety. However, the defense team contested this proposal, leading to a legal power struggle. The trial involves charges of murder, attempted murder, and weaponrelated offenses stemming from a series of mass shootings in Cape Town.
Indoor fireplaces may release tiny particles that can cause health complications when inhaled, according to research from Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Engineering. The study found that the the harmful substances emitted by indoor fireplaces exceeded the guidelines established by the World Health Organisation. Longterm exposure to these particles can lead to premature deaths and arrested lung function in children. The research suggests further study is needed, including interventionist experiments that provide indoor air quality monitoring data to households to encourage changes in behaviour and indoor environmental practices.
Two teams from Elsies River library have secured their place among the top three winners of the Mandela Day coding tournament, and are now preparing to compete in the national and world tournaments in October and December. The libraries in Cape Town have embraced coding as a step towards digital transformation, sparking a digital revolution that could redefine the role of libraries in the city and beyond. The coding contest has opened a new chapter in the evolution of libraries, making them centres of innovation and digital interaction.
The COGTA Committee has released a comprehensive report detailing the financial strategies and anticipated performance for the fiscal cycle of 2024/25, including budgetary plans for the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent. The report also focuses on fostering transparency and accountable governance, addressing distressed and dysfunctional municipalities, spatial integration and traditional practices, and fiscal planning and allocation. The committee’s commitment to enhancing community welfare and sustaining traditional practices is evident in their dedication to oversight in government operations.
A group of innovative library leaders has emerged in Cape Town, South Africa, after graduating from the Strengthening Innovative Library Leaders (SILL) program. This initiative, backed by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, aims to nurture innovation and leadership in the library sector. The successful graduates, representing libraries across the city, bring diverse experiences and stand ready to usher in a fresh era of change and innovation in their respective libraries. The emergence of these new library leaders is a testament to the transformative power of training and capacity enhancement, paving the way for a future where libraries are vibrant hubs of learning, innovation, and community engagement.
South African National Parks (SANParks) has introduced a new digital service, the TMNP My Activity Permit, allowing for easy procurement of the permit for certain leisure activities within the Table Mountain National Park. The permit is costeffective and valid for a year from the date of purchase. It is aimed at improving the guest experience by enabling smoother exploration of the park’s diverse options and protecting the environment. The procurement process is userfriendly, and holders do not have to pay entrance fees at TMNP pay points for their designated activities, making outdoor activities within this stunning park more economical and attractive.
The South African Parliament operates through two main bodies, the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces, which meet regularly to discuss and vote on important matters. They adopt a hybrid form, allowing for both physical and virtual participation in the proceedings, promoting transparency and encouraging individual participation in the democratic process. The activities are open to the public and the media, showcasing the blending of tradition and modernity in the operation of this important institution. The importance of individual participation in the democratic process cannot be stressed enough, and the human factor propels these institutions.
Seven suspects were arrested in KwaZuluNatal for illegally possessing firearms, following an intelligenceled operation that prevented a potential murder plot. The suspects were found with multiple loaded firearms, including AK47 rifles and pistols. This successful operation highlights the importance of intelligence gathering and the quick response of law enforcement officers in ensuring public safety. The event is a reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement in their mission to maintain law and order, but it also demonstrates the effectiveness of proactive policing and the justice system.
Iconic landmarks in urban environments play a significant role in shaping a city’s identity and contributing to economic development and community building. Locations such as the Grand Parade, City Hall, Green Point Athletic Stadium and Park, and Athlone Stadium host a variety of events and activities, enhancing the city’s vitality and daily existence. The City of Cape Town is dedicated to preserving the legacy of these venues through continual improvements, reflecting their commitment to safeguarding historical significance and boosting economic potential. These iconic structures are not just physical entities, but vibrant, living entities that embody the spirit of Cape Town.
Orcas, or killer whales, have an amazing ability to mimic human speech patterns, as shown in an experiment with a 14yearold orca named Wikie. This discovery expands our understanding of animal cognition and highlights the adaptability of these marine mammals. However, it does not mean that orcas understand the meaning of the sounds they mimic. The study broadens our knowledge of animal cognition and gives us a glimpse into how they communicate and learn in their underwater kingdom.
A devastating fire tore through the shacks of Nomzamo, Cape Town, claiming two lives and leaving several homeless. The shanties had no formal electricity connections, and residents had been ignored when raising concerns about illegal connections. The tragedy highlights the urgent need for attention to basic living conditions and the widening gap between the affluent and the deprived, but also speaks of fortitude, community, and survival.
The Parliament of South Africa has opened applications for media professionals seeking accreditation for coverage of the 2024 Opening of Parliament Address. This event, held every five years, signifies the start of the new parliamentary term, with the newly elected State President introducing their administration’s vision and priorities. The accreditation process is straightforward, requiring online submission of specific information, bridging the gap between Parliament and citizens, and promoting transparency in the democratic process.
Cape Town in winter is not to be missed! The city offers a diverse range of events, from music festivals and comedy nights to artistic gatherings and more. False Bay Folk, vinyl sessions at Ground Culture Café, 100% Comedy, African and soul music at Athletic Club & Social, and a Paint and Sip event at Neighbourgood Bree Street are just a few examples of the exciting events to look forward to. Cape Town’s community spirit, cultural heritage, and energy make it a winter wonderland worth visiting.
In South Africa, a complex legal battle involving the Nuveld farmers has escalated with the potential to put numerous officials, including Thoko Didiza, in jail. The dispute began in 2009 when the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform allocated five farms to over 80 beneficiaries, including the Nuveld farmers. Despite their success, the department allegedly took two of their farms earlier this year, leading to a legal battle that resulted in the recent verdict of contempt of court for Didiza and other officials. The situation highlights the challenges of land reform and rural development in a democratic society.
Kaizer Chiefs, a renowned football club in South Africa, is undergoing significant changes as they prepare for a new season. The team is reshaping its identity and enhancing its onfield performance, including the departure of four senior players and an evaluation of the current squad. The club’s strategic moves aim to establish a legacy and leave a lasting impression on football history. As anticipation builds for the new season, fans eagerly await the team’s strategic assortment of talents and potential to compete effectively against formidable opponents.
South African fashion brand Earth Age wowed audiences with its ecofriendly designs at Dior Men’s Summer 2025 show in Paris. The brand partnered with renowned designers and milliners to showcase the vibrant and unique aspects of Cape Town’s craft sector, including distinct Helix beaded bucket hat designs that represent Earth Age’s sustainable ethos. The event marked an inventive amalgamation of craft traditions from two unique cultures, French and South African, and shone a spotlight on local crochet artists and their superb craftsmanship. It also demonstrated the importance of incorporating art and sustainable practices into the fashion industry.
