A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.
World Environment Day is a global call to action for preserving our planet and was established in 1972 by the United Nations General Assembly. In the Western Cape, Anton Bredell, the Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs, and Development Planning, has used this occasion to draw attention to the pressing environmental concerns and the ongoing efforts to combat them.
South Africa’s Minister of Transport, Sindisiwe Chikunga has taken a proactive approach towards addressing the issue of potholeridden roads and inadequate infrastructure by embarking on a national roadshow. This article explores the importance of this initiative and its potential impact on South Africa’s transportation network.
Fifty years ago, the world embarked on a journey to protect our environment. On June 5, 2023, Cape Town, South Africa, will host the commemoration of the 50th World Environment Day (WED). Spearheaded by the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, Ms. Barbara Creecy, in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), this event aims to raise awareness and promote innovative ways to tackle plastic pollution.
On June 5, the Atlantis Special Economic Zone (ASEZ) held an official groundbreaking ceremony for the civil infrastructure construction in zone 1. The project marks a significant step forward in the development of the Western Cape’s green energy sector. ## A Dedicated Hub for Green Technology and Renewable Energy
The [North West Province police](https://capetown.today/highdensityoperationsinnorthwestprovinceasuccessstoryincrimeprevention) in South Africa have been persistent in their fight against crime, making the region safer. Over the weekend, the province’s crime prevention and combating operation, named “Operation Shanela,” made significant strides. This largescale operation led to the arrest of more than 300 suspects involved in various crimes, ranging from robbery, murder, rape, and attempted murder to illegal possession of firearms, ammunition, and drugs, as well as illegal dealing in liquor.
Clinton Manuel has been appointed as the new Chief Fire Officer (CFO) of Cape Town’s Fire & Rescue Service, effective June 1, 2023. With over three decades of firefighting experience, Manuel has demonstrated his commitment to community safety. ### A Seamless Transition
Cape Town’s vibrant spirit refuses to be frozen during the chilly winter. The Jive Cape Town Funny Festival, the largest and oldest comedy festival in South Africa, is back to warm the hearts of its audience with a monthlong extravaganza of laughter. From the 5th of June to the 2nd of July 2023, the Baxter Theatre will be transformed into a haven of hilarity, showcasing the finest comedic talents, both local and international.
On a tragic night in Umlazi, the Glebelands Hostel experienced an unimaginable tragedy that left many in disbelief. A peaceful gathering of nine friends quickly turned into a night of horror when unknown gunmen attacked them, resulting in seven deaths and leaving two with serious injuries.
The Water and Sanitation Directorate of the City of Cape Town has announced essential maintenance works to improve water supply infrastructure. The scheduled maintenance will involve pipe and valve installations, repairs, and replacements, which will enhance local residents’ water supply services. Despite possible disruptions, the directorate assures the public that the planned upgrades’ longterm benefits will outweigh any temporary inconvenience.
Cape Town, a bustling coastal city in South Africa, is committed to investing R4.3 billion in water and sanitation infrastructure in the 2023/2024 financial year. This significant initiative showcases the Water and Sanitation Directorate’s dedication to providing access to highquality water and ensuring that communities do not suffer from sewer overflows. The city’s investment plan also strives to provide adequate sanitation in informal settlements, promoting a healthier environment for all residents.
As a cold front sweeps through the region, there has been a surge in electricityrelated service requests. The residents are advised to prepare for the cold, damp, and blustery conditions that are expected to persist over the weekend. The inclement weather can further worsen power service issues, leading to a rise in demand for assistance.
Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) achieved a significant milestone in April 2023 as the airport’s share of overseas tourists reached full recovery compared to its prepandemic levels in April 2019. During the month, CTIA recorded a total of 67,747 tourist arrivals via air, with 87% coming from overseas markets and the remaining 13% from the African continent, according to the monthly tourism report from Wesgro, the Western Cape Government’s trade, investment, and tourism promotion agency.
The Western Cape province in South Africa is committed to a sustainable future, and it is making significant strides towards achieving this goal. One of the ways the province is supporting the use of renewable energy sources is through tax incentives, as highlighted by the Director of Personal Income Tax at the National Treasury, Marle Van Niekerk, during Premier Alan Winde’s 13th Energy Digicon.
On June 2nd, Cape Town Mayor Geordin HillLewis was honored during a ceremony held in Saldanha for receiving the city’s clean audit award for the 202122 financial year from the Auditor General (AG). This award recognizes the city’s unwavering commitment to transparency, integrity, and excellence in governance. It also demonstrates Cape Town’s focus on improving the lives of its citizens by ensuring public funds are used efficiently and effectively.
Mayor Geordin HillLewis of Cape Town has recently ignited enthusiasm among the city’s residents by involving them in the naming of the new antilitter mascot. After receiving hundreds of creative suggestions, a shortlist of five names was prepared by the city officials.
Over 200 South African firefighters will join Canadian firefighters to combat the wildfires that have been devastating the province of Alberta. The Working on Fire program initiated by the South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment facilitated this remarkable international collaboration. This marks the fifth deployment of South African firefighters to Canada.