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.
The digital age has transformed various aspects of life, including the school admissions process. In the Western Cape, the online admissions system has significantly simplified the application for school placement in 2024. As the outcome of applications is being released on Monday, 29 May 2023, it is crucial for parents to confirm their choice of school as soon as possible.
The North West Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Health and Social Development, under the leadership of Hon. Kabelo Mataboge, is planning an oversight visit to the Mahikeng Provincial Hospital. The visit follows media reports of allegations that newborn babies were placed on boxes due to a shortage of incubators and hospital beds.
The Office of the Health Ombud in South Africa is bidding farewell to its first Ombud, Professor Malegapuru William Makgoba. His nonrenewable sevenyear term comes to an end on May 31, 2023. Professor Makgoba played a vital role in shaping the office’s work during his tenure, and his unique perspective and dedication to his role contributed to the growth and development of the Office of the Health Ombud.
The City of Cape Town is set to embark on a significant infrastructure upgrade in the bustling Bellville area. The Urban Mobility Directorate has recently announced a major revitalization project involving the roadworks along Boulevard Park, Hardekraaltjie, and Mill Street. This project will commence on May 29th, 2023, and is scheduled to be completed by June 22nd, 2023. As a result, residents and businesses should prepare for increased travel times and a temporary rise in noise pollution levels.
Deputy Minister of Social Development, Hendrietta BogopaneZulu, launched the annual Child Protection Week campaign with a focus on rehabilitating children who have been in conflict with the law. The theme for the campaign is “Let us Protect Children during COVID19 and Beyond.”
The South African visa regime has become a significant hindrance to businesses, making it difficult to attract foreign investment and expand existing businesses. This has resulted in a substantial barrier to economic growth and job creation. ## Identifying Business Challenges
South Africa’s Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola, commended the country’s law enforcement agencies for capturing Fulgence Kayishema, a Rwandan fugitive who had been on the run since 2001. Interpol had issued a Red Notice at the request of the United Nations International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunal (IRMCT), which had sought Kayishema for genocide and crimes against humanity in Rwanda.
In the North West Province of South Africa, the Department of Employment and Labour offers a valuable platform for employers seeking to recruit employees and internship candidates. The Public Employment Services (PES) unit provides an array of services to streamline the recruitment process, saving both time and money for employers while also providing selfempowerment opportunities for job seekers.
The Western Cape Province of South Africa has been experiencing a persistent increase in highdensity operations as part of the authorities’ unwavering fight against crime. These operations have resulted in over 1600 arrests for various criminal offenses over the past week. The strategic approach to combating crime has proven to be highly effective, resulting in a considerable reduction of criminal activities.
On May 24th, the Western Cape Government (WCG) Cabinet came together to discuss pressing issues and opportunities for growth. One of the main topics of discussion was the strengthening of relations between the European Union (EU) and the WCG, with special guest Ms. Sandra Kramer, Ambassador of the EU delegation, in attendance.
The Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) has expressed disapproval of the suspended Denel Dynamics CEO, Mr. Sello Ntsihlele’s attempts to disrupt attention from his ongoing internal disciplinary process. Ntsihlele has made unfounded allegations against Minister Pravin Gordhan and the department, trying to involve them in the matter.
Cape Town is witnessing a significant increase in rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) applications, driven by incentive programs aimed at reducing loadshedding. Mayor Geordin HillLewis has confirmed that March 2023 saw the highest number of new solar PV installation applications to date.
The North West Provincial Legislature is set to unveil its Departmental Budget Votes for the fiscal year 2023/24 in a significant event that will take place on the 30th of May, 2023. The esteemed Speaker of the North West Provincial Legislature, Hon. Basetsana R.S Dantjie, will preside over the proceedings in the Legislature Chamber at 09h00.
Deputy Minister Parks Tau recently delivered a budget vote speech at the Parliament Good Hope Chamber, highlighting the importance of municipal support programs and integrated planning across all three spheres of government. The speech focused on the Community Works Program (CWP) and the allocation of R4.2 billion under Vote 3.
Minister Thembi Nkadimeng recently presented the 2023/24 Budget Vote for the Departments of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA). This important occasion highlighted the department’s past accomplishments and future plans, with a focus on accelerating implementation and ensuring local government becomes a key driver for growth, innovation, inclusivity, and cohesion.
The Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) has expressed concerns over the recent behavior of its suspended DirectorGeneral (DG), Kgathatso Tlhakudi. Rather than allowing due process to take place, Tlhakudi has created a misinformed public perception, which is especially concerning given his role as a senior public servant.