Serjio Zakharoff

In South Africa, Western Cape police officers are dedicated to eradicating the illegal trafficking of drugs. Recently, their efforts paid off when a 62yearold man was arrested for possession of 5kg of heroin, worth an estimated R1.2 million. ### Collaborative Effort of Law Enforcement

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched its 2024/2025 recruitment drive. The goal is to train an additional 10,000 young people, between the ages of 18 and 35, to serve as police officers. The Deputy Minister of Police, Mr. Cassel Mathale, unveiled this plan during a National Career Expo in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape, on August 5, 2023.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has taken significant steps towards addressing the issue of illegal mining in Gauteng communities. The deployment of specialized forces to the area has contributed to an increased sense of safety for residents. ### Community Engagement Event

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s busy schedule for August 2023 includes attending global summits and addressing pressing issues facing his nation. Here are the key events and initiatives he will be participating in: ## Netball World Cup 2023

The African penguin is in danger of becoming functionally extinct by 2035 if immediate action is not taken. Over the past century, its population has dramatically decreased from over a million breeding pairs to just 10,000 pairs. The decline of this iconic bird is caused by several factors, including competition for food, pollution, ship traffic, and degradation of nesting habitats.

The recent taxi strike has caused significant disruptions to public services, and waste management has not been spared. Waste management companies are facing severe operational difficulties due to staff’s inability to get to work, leading to challenges in garbage collection and street cleaning.

On August 7th, 2023, Gauteng MEC for Transport and Logistics, Kedibone DialeTlabela, officially opened the upgraded Vereeniging Intermodal Facility in the Sedibeng District Municipality. This development marks a new era of improved transportation and economic growth within the region. ### The First Phase of the Project

The recent taxi strike in Western Cape, organized by SANTACO, has had a significant impact on the education of learners in the region. The strike has prevented learners from accessing their constitutional right to basic education, with over 287,000 children staying home from school. The disruption to learning is evident, and it has also affected 9,508 teachers and staff, who are essential to educating the future generation.

Community housing schemes are becoming increasingly popular worldwide, offering residents a sense of security, convenience, and belonging. South Africa has seen rapid growth in this industry and is now estimated to have over 70,000 community schemes, contributing significantly to the nation’s economy and job creation. Therefore, good governance is critical to ensuring the continued success of these schemes.

The transport departments of South Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in TransportRelated Matters. The agreement was signed by South African Minister of Transport, Ms. Sindisiwe Chikunga, and her DRC counterpart, His Excellency Minister Marc Ekila Likombo, on August 4th.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile addressed the nation on August 4, 2023, during the National Dialogue on Coalition Governments held at the University of the Western Cape. The event brought together representatives from different sectors of society, including political parties, academic institutions, and leaders of organized labor and business. It marked the first time that such diverse leadership had convened to deliberate on the issue of coalition governments in South Africa.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by successfully implementing their new direct payment method to 86% of university beneficiaries in just two months. This new system has streamlined the process of disbursing funds for eligible students and ensures swift and accurate delivery of financial aid.

As the SANTACO strike takes a toll on Cape Town, both commuters and the City’s services are grappling with the aftermath of the violence and lawlessness that has ensued. Attacks on other public transport services, roadblocks, and stoning of private vehicles have left thousands of commuters stranded. In addition, several City facilities located in volatile areas have been closed to prioritize staff safety and prevent vandalism and infrastructure attacks.