Budget cuts in Western Cape may lead to the termination of 2,407 teaching positions, affecting 6% of the region’s teaching workforce and leaving 100,000 students unsupported. Teachers’ unions are advocating for a reshuffling of funds to preserve the jobs, while concerned stakeholders gathered at a recent meeting at the Community House in Salt River to discuss the crisis. The cuts are hitting rural schools the hardest, and unity and collaboration are being called for amidst the crisis.
British Airways is increasing its flight frequency to Cape Town, with an extra daily flight set to launch by October 2024, aiming to meet the demand from international travelers and improve global connectivity. The airline plans to increase the total weekly flights between Cape Town and London Heathrow to 21 by January 2025, reflecting its dedication to enhancing the travel experience and capitalizing on the commercial prospects of the route. This strategic adjustment promises to stimulate the local economy, elevate Cape Town as a toptier destination, and revolutionize the global aviation landscape.
The GreenPitch Challenge in Cape Town is more than just a contest, it’s a launchpad for ecofocused innovation. Entrepreneurs are crucial to the success of the green economy, generating concepts and inventions that can change lives and create employment opportunities. Dragonfly, Aero Greens, and Silence SA were the winners of the 2024 GreenPitch Challenge, each demonstrating a remarkable commitment to green economic principles. The future of green innovation looks positive thanks to the resources provided by GreenCape, who are steering Cape Town towards a more resilient and ecoaware future.
The Disaster Risk Management Centre in Cape Town relies on a team of committed volunteers to tackle extreme weather events and reduce disaster risks. These unsung heroes spend an astounding amount of time supporting the centre officials and participating in training sessions to improve their abilities in disaster management. From April to June, these heroic citizens committed over 18,000 hours of service, equivalent to over 769 days of unbroken work. Their selfless dedication serves as a beacon of hope and resilience for Cape Town’s future.
Cape Town has received a massive R5 billion budget for water and sanitation services in the 2024/2025 fiscal year. The funds will be used to secure the city’s water future, ensure access to highquality drinking water, address sewer overflows, and provide satisfactory sanitation services in informal settlements. The investment demonstrates the city’s dedication to its residents and its readiness to tackle future challenges with innovative and sustainable solutions. The capital budget allocation is diverse, addressing a variety of needs, including proactive measures for sewer overflows, flood mitigation projects, and pollution reduction initiatives.
The Cape Town Film Fund has been launched during FAME Week Africa, with the aim of supporting film and media projects that promote economic growth and employment. The fund covers a wide range of genres and has a temporary advisory board to assess funding applications. The initiative is committed to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and nurturing budding talents through training and skills development programs. FAME Week Africa and the Cape Town Film Fund collectively sketch an optimistic future for the African film industry, with Cape Town emerging as a champion of local talent.
Cape Town’s council has allocated a massive R39.5 billion for initiatives that directly benefit lowincome households, with a focus on affordable housing and environmental resilience. This forwardthinking infrastructure plan is double that of Durban’s and 80% larger than Johannesburg’s. The city is also celebrating its sports stars while marking new milestones in infrastructure investment, with a dedication to transparency, efficiency, and commitment to growth. The Mayor and Council have set ambitious goals, and Cape Town eagerly anticipates witnessing the fruition of these plans.
The heroic firefighters of the City of Cape Town are taking a break from fighting fires to run in the Totalsports Women’s Race. Their goal is to raise awareness about blood cancer and bloodrelated disorders and recruit more people as stem cell donors. Their partnership with DKMS, a global nonprofit fighting against these diseases, aims to make a difference in the lives of those affected. You can join their noble cause by registering as a stem cell donor online at www.dkmsafrica.org.
The City of Cape Town is gifting title deeds to its residents, providing them with a sense of ownership, stability, and empowerment. The Human Settlements Directorate is coordinating the title deedtodoor campaign, delivering these crucial pieces of paper to homeowners throughout various communities in Cape Town. The City has established systems to ensure transparency and prevent fraudulent activities, and residents can easily identify the individuals responsible for title deed delivery. The title deed handover is more than a formality; it’s a promise of a safe and secure future for many South Africans.
Solly Moholo, a wellknown gospel singer, has been hospitalized in Botswana due to a sudden illness. He has also recently spoken about his battle with depression and a suicide attempt earlier this year. His management team reports that he is showing improvement and will remain in Botswana until fully recovered. Fans have expressed their support and well wishes on social media, sending prayers and encouraging him to stay strong.
Cape Town’s burger scene is more than just fastfood chains. Cozy eateries and burger bars offer unique and delicious firegrilled patties in handmade buns with creative toppings, accompanied by a thriving craft beer scene. Cape Town Etc’s comprehensive guide to the city’s best burgers is a perfect way to explore this culinary adventure. From No Ordinary Burger’s colossal burgers to Burger & Lobster’s gourmet blend, each establishment offers its unique flavors and charm.
Traversing Africa via public transport is a thrilling adventure that requires patience and flexibility. It’s an immersive way to understand the continent’s people, cultures, and landscapes while experiencing its unpredictable nature. Though there may be challenges, the journey offers unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for the unexpected. It’s an exploration of new territories and of oneself, ultimately leaving travelers with a passion for the path less trodden.
South Africa’s Bureau of Standards has updated regulations for electric fences, with new rules requiring the use of premiumgrade materials, regular inspection schedules and enhanced testing methods after installation. The SANS 10222–3: 2023 Edition 5.1 requirements also include revised standards for warning sign placement and joint installation. Failure to comply with the standards can result in the denial of insurance claims, while consumers can request the Electric Fence System Installer number from installers and report improper conduct to the Department of Labour.
Jaguar TCS Racing has secured their inaugural Formula E Team Championship title in the 10th season of the tournament, with a lead of 36 points. Despite missing out on the Driver’s Championship, Jaguar’s consistent performance throughout the season, amassing 44 podium finishes and clinching the Manufacturer’s Trophy, marked a significant achievement in their racing history. Pascal Wehrlein secured the Driver’s Championship, marking his first Formula E World Championship as well as the maiden FIA World Championship win by a Mauritian descent driver.
Operation Shanela was a weeklong crusade against criminal activity in South Africa’s North West Province. The operation resulted in the detention of 793 people, including murderers, rapists, and burglars, as well as the resolution of numerous pending cases and the confiscation of illegal substances and weapons. This operation demonstrated the unwavering commitment of the police to maintaining law and order and fostering safer communities while sending a powerful message to criminals that their actions will not be tolerated.
Spier Wine Farm, known for crafting excellent wines from fertile soil and skilled winemakers, recently won six Gold Medals and a Grand Gold Medal at the 31st Concours Mondial de Bruxelles. The awards recognize the farm’s commitment to cultivating quality in diversity and across different pricing brackets. Their exceptional 21 Gables range and Seaward selection embody the essence of Stellenbosch and South Africa’s coastal regions, carving a niche for themselves and the country in the global wine industry.
