South Africa’s trucking industry faces a looming shutdown as the All Truck Drivers Forum and Allied SA (ATDFASA) announced a shutdown planned for May 20, 2024. This is due to the ongoing conflict over hiring foreign truck drivers, which has resulted in national shutdowns, protests, casualties, damage to trucks, and loss of goods. The impact of the protests has extended beyond the industry, severely affecting the South African economy and public safety. The disruptions have also caused shortages of basic necessities, delays in deliveries, and increased absences among staff members.
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a dangerous health risk that can lead to serious complications like stroke and heart attack. The city’s health department has increased screenings and promoted prevention measures like medication, physical activity, and healthy eating to combat this “silent killer.” They have found that more young people are being diagnosed with hypertension, and urge everyone to prioritize their health and get screened regularly. By adopting a preventive healthcare approach and routine screenings, the city’s health department is fighting against this unseen threat.
South Africa’s participatory democracy has entered a new chapter with the establishment of a new Parliamentary Constituency Office (PCO) in Botshabelo, Free State, under the stewardship of Mr. Lechesa Tsenoli. The refurbished PCOs provide a platform for Members of Parliament to communicate directly with the public, facilitating a deeper understanding of their concerns and aspirations. The goal is to promote public access and meaningful engagement in parliamentary proceedings, nurturing a more inclusive society. The Botshabelo PCO symbolizes a new era of lively community partnership and a vision for an inclusive democracy.
The maintenance of vast sewage and river systems is a strategic priority, particularly as a sewage overflow or river flood is the last thing a city needs during the colder months. The city’s Water and Sanitation Directorate is preparing for winter’s increased stormwater volume by cleaning sewer pipelines, clearing litter traps in river systems, and monitoring stormwatertosewer connections. Residents can help by adhering to protocols like flushing only human waste and reporting blockages and overflows. By collaborating with the city’s efforts, we can ensure a safer and cleaner winter season.
The trial of Nafiz Modack and his companions in the Western Cape High Court involves a locationtracking platform used to monitor the movements of individuals, including law enforcement officers. Tech tycoon Larry Hurwitz provided revealing testimony on the software’s intricate workings, leading to debates on the ethical and legal limitations of surveillance technology. The trial sheds light on the interplay between technology, crime, and law enforcement, and the potential for abuse of surveillance tools.
Eskom, South Africa’s national power corporation, has achieved a significant improvement in energy availability, with an Energy Availability Factor (EAF) of 70.78%, ending nearly three years of struggle with power supply. This progress is credited to the initiatives implemented by the current Eskom board, including solidifying the management team, implementing performancebased incentive bonuses, and identifying critical power stations requiring immediate attention. Eskom’s dependence on Open Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs) has also lessened due to the improved performance of its coal fleet, resulting in lower diesel usage and greater efficiency. The contribution of businesses and renewable energy sources also signals a hopeful outlook for the future of South Africa’s energy sector.
In Tshwane, South Africa, on May 14th, the Emergency Services Department discovered a man who had fallen into an elevator shaft, leading to the discovery of two corpses hidden in the darkness. A brutal murder of a young girl was also revealed, culminating in a display of mob justice. These incidents highlight the hidden terror in the city and the unexpected role of emergency services in the fight against crime.
Rocklands, Mitchells Plain has been gripped by a disturbing surge in gang violence, resulting in the deaths of three people within 24 hours. Hushed talks of a brewing gang war have left the community in fear, with residents describing a community held hostage by ruthless gangs, where young people are being robbed of their aspirations. Calls for intervention have been made, including a military presence, as fears of being caught in the crossfire may deter residents from participating in the upcoming elections.
Cape Town has introduced an affordable singlephase feedin meter for residents to trade excess solar power back to the city through the ‘Cash for Power’ scheme. The new meter is priced at 40% less than the previous threephase model and has already generated over R30.8m. Participants can receive credits on their electricity and rates accounts by selling power back to the city or earn cash once their total municipal bill is credited down to zero. This initiative reflects Cape Town’s commitment to promoting sustainable energy practices and reducing loadshedding.
The Absa Cape Town 10K is a prestigious road race that brings together elite runners from across Africa for a scenic 10kilometer stretch. The event attracts 12,000 runners and is accompanied by a festive atmosphere along the route, with temporary road closures in place. The race has helped establish Cape Town as a prime location for athletic competitions and showcases the unifying power of sports.
South African budget airline FlySafair has revolutionized air travel by offering domestic flights for just R10, less than the price of a cup of coffee. As part of a sale of 50,000 seats on certain routes to mark its 10year anniversary, the airline has brought its prices down to the absolute minimum, democratizing travel for many. The sale has been so popular that FlySafair has introduced a digital waiting room to manage the high demand.
Cape Town’s Cash for Power scheme allows households and businesses to trade their surplus solar power back to the city, providing an opportunity to tap into clean and renewable solar energy while also receiving financial rewards. The program has led to collective earnings of over R20.8 million for participants and has spurred interest in solar power utilization. Cape Town’s commitment to renewable energy and sustainable practices is setting a standard for other cities throughout the continent.
Parliament is preparing for the transition to the seventh session as the sixth Parliament finishes its tenure. The National Assembly and National Council of Provinces are reviewing bills, motions, and committee reports, with both Houses holding plenaries on Thursday. The week showcases Parliament’s dedication to protecting public interest and adapting to the nation’s everchanging challenges.
Mama Shelter, a famous hotel chain known for its unique and vibrant aesthetics, is opening a new hotel in the City Park building in Cape Town. The hotel will feature 127 guest rooms, coworking spaces, a gym, a pool, and a rooftop restaurant with breathtaking views of the city, as well as a new concept called Mama Play, including tenpin bowling and karaoke. The joint venture between Ennismore and Kasada promises to revitalize the once deserted City Park building, marking Mama Shelter’s debut in the South African market and contributing to the rejuvenation of Cape Town’s central business district.
Cape Town’s innovative “Cash for Power” program incentivizes solar power generation by buying leftover solar PV power from smallscale producers and providing rewards, making it an attractive opportunity for property owners. The program’s success is evident with over 1,500 power sellers earning over R30.8m. The city’s vision is to acquire as much solar power as households and businesses can generate, promoting sustainable energy solutions and a green economy. The application process has been streamlined with a new online portal and a bidirectional meter is set to be introduced.
In Pretoria Central, the Gauteng police quickly captured a suspect in the homicide of a Meter Taxi Association chair. The suspect allegedly began shooting at the police before being arrested for murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm. The event sheds light on the persistent issue of violence in the South African taxi industry and the effectiveness of the Rapid Rail Police Unit’s speedy response. The police are investigating potential connections to other crimes related to taxi violence.