Handre Pollard, a twotime Rugby World Cup winner and one of the highestearning rugby players, recently moved to the UK with his wife to play for the Leicester Tigers and await the arrival of their child. Their love story and elegant home in Leicester add to the charm of Handre’s personal and professional triumph. Handre’s journey from the bustling Western Cape to serene Leicester is a riveting tale of personal and professional triumph, embodying the idea that love, adaptability, and passion can transform any location into a home.
Deo Kato, a man of Ugandan descent and London residency, is running from Cape Town to London along ancient migratory trails. His journey challenges racial stereotypes, questions territorial divisions, and fosters human connections. Despite facing numerous challenges, Kato’s determination remains unwavering. His marathon is a poignant commentary on the obstacles that refugees encounter in their search for safety and a lively rebuttal against racism, demonstrating that our common human heritage trumps race or nationality.
Kaizer Chiefs FC, a prestigious soccer club, is set to undergo a major overhaul in coaching and player roster during the upcoming transfer season. Rumors abound of potential acquisitions such as Stanley Nwabali, Shaune Mogaila, and Elias Mokwana, a highly soughtafter Bafana Bafana player. The Chiefs’ current rebuilding phase gives them an advantage in their quest to land Mokwana, a talented 24yearold player facing a difficult decision between Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, and Sundowns. The upcoming transfer season is anticipated to generate an entirely new demographic for the club.
Kaizer Chiefs, a once dominant soccer team in South Africa, is experiencing a decadelong decline without any significant trophies. This has caused worry among fans and former players like Lucas Radebe, who played for the team from 1989 to 1994. The club’s struggles are not just about missing silverware, but they also highlight the deteriorating condition of the club. Radebe’s concerns are a reminder of the club’s unrealized potential and a call for them to return to their former glory.
The Cape Town International Jazz Festival is a highly anticipated annual music event held in South Africa. With a variety of jazzinspired genres and a lineup of illustrious performers from around the world, it promises to deliver a thrilling blend of vibrant energy and a spectrum of sounds that will linger in the memories of attendees. Along with stellar performances, the festival also offers artistled masterclasses and a foodie paradise called Flavour Junction. It’s a celebration of culture, a tribute to the timeless allure of jazz, and a shining gem in Cape Town’s cultural tiara.
Bheka “Beekay” Mchunu, a renowned radio presenter with Ukhozi FM in KwaZuluNatal, passed away suddenly, leaving his devoted listeners in mourning. Mchunu’s enchanting voice earned him a prominent place in many households, and he was the founder of KZN Matric Excellence. His legacy as a storyteller, music lover, and unifying figure who bridged communities is remembered and celebrated by those who knew and loved him. Mchunu’s death is part of a distressing trend at Ukhozi FM, which has recently witnessed the loss of several highprofile presenters.
Cape Town is fighting the invasive Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer beetle by offering free training to residents and businesses to manage infested trees and safely transport affected biomass. Chemical solutions have failed, so the training aims to provide attendees with crucial information about the beetle and how to recognize infested trees, handle and dispose of infested biomass, and safely transport green waste. This community effort is essential as PSHB poses a significant threat to Cape Town’s urban vegetation, and the traditional chemical solutions have failed to control it.
Gender mainstreaming in state operations involves considering the impact on women and men and addressing gender inequalities in policymaking, legislation, and budgeting processes. The National Assembly Speaker emphasized the crucial role of parliaments in promoting gendersensitive budgeting and promoting equality. While progress has been made, challenges still exist, and parliaments must take action to advocate for gender equity and create societies where women and girls can live free from poverty and associated social issues. The call to action is for parliaments to step up and utilize their influence to turn the tide of gender inequality towards greater economic prosperity for all.
SALGA, a South African Local Government Association, advocates for increased funding to enhance the financial viability of municipalities nationwide. While the allocation of R177 billion to local government seems hopeful, SALGA contends that it is far from sufficient, especially considering the substantial infrastructure backlogs municipalities are facing. The Standing Committee on Appropriations recommends forming publicprivate partnerships with local governments and rallying local businesses to attract local investment to improve financial wellbeing. SALGA endorses the deployment of smart meters to benefit municipalities and fight for the rights of the unheard.
Dr. Musa Mthombeni’s graduation from the prestigious College of Diagnostic Radiologists of South Africa was overshadowed by unwarranted speculation about his wife’s pregnancy. Liesl Mthombeni spoke out against the rumors, appealing for privacy and respect for personal boundaries. A close friend of the couple also defended them against the invasive comments. It’s vital to respect the personal space of public figures, especially during celebratory moments.
On March 10, two police officers in KwaZuluNatal were victims of a brutal and unexpected attack, resulting in the death of one. The KwaZuluNatal Police Service immediately launched an investigation, leading to the death of one suspect and ongoing efforts to apprehend the other. This tragedy highlights the courage and resilience of law enforcement officers in the face of danger and their unwavering commitment to serving and protecting their community.
South Africa’s Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, will participate in a session of Questions for Oral Reply, emphasizing the country’s commitment to transparency and accessibility. The National Assembly will also gather to examine committee reports on various bills and host a debate on investing in women, showcasing the country’s dedication to gender equality and women’s rights. The events contribute to a noteworthy day in the history of South African parliamentary procedures, highlighting the country’s commitment to public accessibility and transparency.
Blaauwberg is getting a major makeover! This ambitious rejuvenation plan covers a vast geographic stretch with a comprehensive overhaul of multiple roads, new sidewalks, and traffic management solutions. The project is expected to bring substantial changes to the lives of Blaauwberg’s residents and will transform the region into a shining example of Cape Town’s dedication to progressive urban planning and development. Let’s look forward to the transformation and the benefits it will bring, including improved transportation routes, pedestrian safety, and smoother traffic flow.
Zululand’s economic progress is facing challenges due to crime, which threatens the stability of the business sector and the safety of citizens. President Cyril Ramaphosa and his administration engaged in a dialogue with Durban’s business community to tackle these issues and lay the groundwork for the KwaZuluNatal (KZN) economy’s expansion. SAPS has made considerable progress in combating criminal organizations and individuals despite budgetary restrictions, and the business sector, civil society, and law enforcement need to work together to create a safe business environment. However, the government remains devoted to ensuring that police continue their work across the region to improve law enforcement in identified areas.
The South African Springboks rugby team is eagerly anticipating the start of their 2024 Test season, which will kick off with a match against Wales, followed by two matches against Ireland and a oneoff match against Portugal. There is much excitement surrounding the team’s selection, with rugby director Rassie Erasmus at the forefront of speculation. Fans are also curious about who will wear the No 13 jersey and who will start as hooker and No 8. The season promises to be a thrilling display of skill, strategy, and rivalry for rugby fans worldwide.
Read about the heroic efforts of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation team in repairing a collapsed sewer line in Langa Zone 20. Discover the obstacles they faced, from informal structures obstructing access to the depth of the pipe and groundwater, and how they overcame them with persistence and tenacity. The team’s success was bolstered by their commitment to engaging the community and securing their cooperation in executing the repairs. Their efforts highlight the importance of maintaining infrastructure to improve the community’s living conditions and safeguard essential services.