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 Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has introduced an online service that has made licence renewal more convenient and efficient. The platform has gained popularity due to its userfriendly and costeffective approach, processing over 50,000 transactions each month. With realtime updates and direct transactions on the Natis system, the platform eliminates costly intermediaries and streamlines the renewal process.
The Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT) manages the Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprise (SMME) Booster Fund for the Western Cape Government (WCG). The fund has been a catalyst for economic growth and job creation in the Western Cape since 2019. Applications for the 2023 SMME Booster Fund close on 11th July 2023.
The BroadBased Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) Commission collaborated with the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) to host a virtual dialogue on June 28, 2023. The event aimed to address challenges faced by South African youth concerning opportunities, inclusion, and economic transformation. The dialogue, held during Youth Month, brought together stakeholders from various youth organizations, the Department of Small Business Development, and the BBBEE Commission.
Water meter theft is a significant challenge in Cape Town, South Africa. The issue affects various neighborhoods, with multiple areas experiencing a high incidence of theft. ### The Extent of the Problem
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) have successfully recovered R1.9 million that was unlawfully claimed from the Agriculture Sector Education and Training Authority (AgriSeta) by Lerato Raphael Mokoteli, a Bloemfontein pastor. The fraudulent funds were obtained between 2016 and 2019. Mokoteli has repaid the full amount to AgriSeta as part of a guilty plea agreement with the State.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has launched an investigation into the recent allegations of assault involving members of the Protection Security Services in the South African Police Service (SAPS). This comes after the IPID Executive Director received a complaint from Members of Parliament, Mr. Whitfield and Mr. Terreblanche, regarding an incident that occurred on the N1 North in the Sandton Police Station precinct.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has addressed an unfortunate event involving members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) attached to his protection detail and unarmed civilians. In his statement, Mashatile expressed his disapproval of any unnecessary use of force, specifically against unarmed individuals.
South Africa is making strides to address the issue of unemployment and generate job opportunities for its citizens. Minister of Employment and Labour, T.W Nxesi, is taking the lead in hosting a Jobs Fair and an Employer Breakfast Session from 6th to 7th July 2023, at Johannesburg’s NASREC. The objective of these events is to connect job seekers with potential employers and provide different forms of employment and learning opportunities.
On Sunday night, 2 June 2023, a headon collision between a minibus taxi and an articulated truck claimed the lives of 15 people on the N10 at Middelburg in the Eastern Cape. The minibus taxi carrying 15 passengers, including the driver, was traveling from Cradock to Middelburg when it collided with a truck. The accident resulted in the death of all the taxi’s occupants, comprising nine females, four males, and two children. The truck driver was admitted to the hospital.
As summer approaches, the Recreation and Parks Department of the City of Cape Town is searching for dedicated candidates to join its seasonal lifeguard team at municipal pools and beaches. The application process is now open, and interested candidates have until July 12th to apply.
The Urban Waste Management (UWM) Directorate in the city is taking significant strides in waste management and community engagement through its innovative Basket of Waste Services Roadshow. This unique program is set to visit the Saxonsea Community Hall on Tuesday, 11 July 2023, providing residents with an opportunity to interact with representatives from various waste services departments. The event will also witness the next rollout of home composting containers, which are a vital component of the city’s waste minimization strategy.
Ensuring the safety and security of citizens in a bustling city is a top priority, and the fight against traffic violations is a crucial component. Recently, law enforcement efforts have increased, leading to significant milestones in the pursuit of justice.
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has introduced an opportunity for South African grade 12 learners to apply for comprehensive bursaries for the 2024 academic year. These bursaries are specifically designed for students who wish to pursue higher education in the water and sanitation sector, catering to their educational and financial needs. The initiative aims to uplift the lives of young minds from impoverished and rural communities by providing them with support.
Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition, Ms. Nomalungelo Gina, recently spoke at a business seminar held in the Alfred Duma Local Municipality in KwaZuluNatal, South Africa. The seminar was organized to support the growth and development of small businesses in the region, highlighting their significant contribution to job creation.
The Black Business Council (BBC) recently hosted its Gala Dinner with Deputy President Paul Mashatile as the guest of honor. The event aimed to promote black excellence and encourage the participation of black South Africans in the mainstream economy. Mashatile emphasized the importance of supporting youth in expanding their economic opportunities, especially in light of the commemoration of the 1976 youth uprising in June.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Free State Province launched a highdensity operation named “Operation Shanela” from June 18 to July 2, 2023. Multiple agencies coordinated their efforts in the operation to combat a wide range of criminal activities.