Rachel Kolisi’s return to South Africa with her family is a heartwarming tale of resilience and adaptability. Through her social media updates, we get a glimpse into a family’s journey of navigating cultural shifts, overcoming language barriers, and celebrating the call of their homeland. The Kolisi family’s journey is a vibrant representation of the adaptability and unity that families all over the world can certainly resonate with.
The Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation is hosting their annual fundraiser, the “Laughs for the Arch” Gala Auction and Dinner. This event is a celebration of Archbishop Tutu and his legacy of moral clarity, bravery, and joy. Guests can expect standup comedians, an auction, and the launch of Tutu bracelets, with all proceeds going towards the Foundation’s initiatives for justice and peace on a global level. Attendees will experience an evening of mirth intertwined with charity and entertainment converging with altruism, all while embracing the spirit of ubuntu.
The Geelsloot Ponds upgrade project is a comprehensive initiative aimed at improving the stormwater system in Somerset West’s Geelsloot Catchment area. The project comprises multiple subprojects, including the construction of new stormwater detention ponds, refurbishment of existing channels, and introduction of green infrastructure. The project is expected to enhance the aesthetics of the area, improve water quality, and reduce flood risk. The project is a rich blend of various disciplines, promoting an environment of interdisciplinary collaboration and ensuring economic stability.
In Fourways, Johannesburg, selfproclaimed ‘informal traffic controllers’ have taken on the role of managing traffic at major crossroads. While some appreciate their efforts, others accuse them of exploiting malfunctioning traffic signals for personal gain. The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department urges motorists to treat junctions as mandatory halt points and not encourage these informal traffic controllers. The story offers insight into the complex dynamics of urban life.
In July 2024, the City of Cape Town will conduct essential maintenance on their water supply network to enhance water efficiency and sustainability. However, residents may experience temporary water disruptions and should store ample water in anticipation. The project includes zeropressure tests and the installation of intelligent pressurereducing valves to minimize leaks and pipe bursts, resulting in a more effective water supply system. The City encourages residents to follow @CityofCTAlerts for updates and information throughout this period.
The sudden surge of homelessness in Paarl, Cape Town, due to an influx of 30 individuals from Cape Town has led to the rise of makeshift structures along the Berg River. Efforts are being made by the Drakenstein Municipality, in collaboration with multiple stakeholders, to relocate the homeless individuals and sanitize the affected areas. The municipality is adopting a more compassionate and sustainable approach to address homelessness in a comprehensive manner, including the establishment of an overnight shelter. The goal is to create a safe and supportive environment that offers access to essential services for the homeless individuals.
Artists and athletes from Africa and Asia are unhappy with the high rate of Schengen visa rejections, which they liken to ‘global apartheid.’ They say that it disproportionately affects countries where people struggle to pay the visa fees, making it harder for them to access international opportunities. High fees and rejection rates could lead to a lack of diversity in art and sports, as talented people from certain regions may miss out.
Cape Town is gearing up for the World Rugby U20 Championship, which will showcase the future talent of rugby from twelve nations under the age of 20. The tournament takes place across three venues in Cape Town from June 29 to July 19, 2024, with affordable ticket prices starting at R35 for children and R75 for adults. The local community is encouraged to show support and give a warm welcome to visiting teams, with the Junior Boks poised to enter the tournament with momentum after their bronze medal achievement at the 2023 championships.
South Africa’s politics is changing as the ANC’s support declines and a Government of National Unity (GNU) is formed with the DA and other political groups. However, tension between the ANC and DA is growing, as the DA demands control over crucial government departments and the termination of contracts of director generals. This has led to criticism from the ANC and a potentially rocky road for political transition. The path forward requires tolerance, accommodation, and respect for the country’s Constitution to establish a truly inclusive, efficient, and representative GNU.
The tragic event of the Dickason Family Incident in New Zealand resulted in the loss of three young children. Lauren Anne Dickason, the mother, was diagnosed with major depressive disorder and will be committed to a mental health institution until she attains stability, after which she will serve an 18year sentence in a correctional facility. Her case highlights the need for a balance in the justice system between protecting society and rehabilitating those with mental health disorders. The incident sparked a paradigm shift in forensic law towards rehabilitationfocused measures.
Period poverty is a major issue affecting over 80% of South African schoolgirls, who lack access to sanitary products and proper menstrual hygiene education. The IMenstruate Movement is campaigning for free menstrual hygiene products to combat this problem. The recent Exesheni Exhibition in Franschhoek shed light on the severity of the situation, with photographs of makeshift solutions like rags, cardboard, and toilet paper. The IMenstruate Movement plans to lobby President Cyril Ramaphosa for change and spread awareness in rural communities.
The City of [city name] is on the verge of completing a nationwide software upgrade programme for prepaid electricity meters, with almost 99% of the estimated 604,500 meters successfully upgraded. The upgrade process is designed to be customerfriendly, with support available for those who need it. Failure to upgrade meters by December 2024 may cause power supply issues, emphasizing the importance of timely action. The City’s forwardthinking approach sets it apart from other primary utilities, and its extensive support system ensures a smooth transition for residents.
Rabies has been detected in Cape Fur Seals along the South African coastline since October 2023, with the first verified case confirmed on 7 June 2024. The Western Cape Department of Agriculture Veterinary Services and the State Vet are managing the situation and public health guidelines have been set. The public is asked to comply with guidelines to maintain public safety and animal welfare, including not touching, handling, or consuming seal carcasses or any part thereof. Future mitigation strategies are being developed to preserve the equilibrium of South Africa’s fragile coastal ecosystems.
Cape Town is taking impressive steps towards embracing green transportation, with a focus on the MyCiTi programme and incorporating 30 electric buses in Phase 2A. The city has allocated R668 million to MyCiTi buses in the next three years and plans to electrify its entire vehicle fleet, including waste collection trucks, light delivery vehicles, sedans, and hatchbacks. This approach is part of a broader goal to convert the entire vehicle fleet to electric power and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The city’s initial step towards electrification was a successful pilot project involving five fully electric BMW i3s for the Traffic Services Department.
Orlando Pirates have bolstered their squad by signing Thalente Mbatha, Tremaine Eastmond, and Kegan Johannes, adding depth and adaptability to their team as they prepare for the CAF Champions League and pursue the title. They are also rumored to be interested in Stanley Nwabali, a soughtafter goalkeeper from Chippa and the Nigerian national team. These signings are seen as a tactical maneuver as the Pirates continue to evolve and look towards the future. Football enthusiasts are eagerly waiting to see the impact these new team members will have on the Pirates’ performance.
The MyCiTi Project is making traffic regulation revisions along AZ Berman Drive for the subsequent phase of the bus services, lasting for about nine months. The modifications include surrendering one northbound lane during peak hours to make way for a third rightturning lane heading south at the intersection of AZ Berman and Highlands Drive. Temporary poles and a pedestrian crossing with signalized traffic lights will be in place for convenience and safety. This is part of the city’s investment towards the future of its transportation infrastructure, providing safe and costeffective public transport to alleviate traffic congestion and uplift nearby regions.
