Over 300 unidentified bodies, including 66 children, are currently held in state morgues in South Africa’s Western Cape. The identification process involves fingerprinting, DNA testing, or other scientific methodologies, with burial initiated after 30 days if no identification is possible. Unclaimed bodies are often from unnatural deaths due to financial barriers hindering families from organizing funerals, with violent deaths on the rise. Efforts to tackle the issue include a violence prevention unit adopting an areabased team strategy.
Explore the hidden gem of Cape Town’s Mitchells Plain with RLabs’ First Thursday initiative. This monthly event showcases the local culture with food stalls, art, and live entertainment, offering a safe space for visitors to interact with the community while supporting local businesses. With effective security measures and a focus on community spirit, RLabs is transforming the image of Mitchells Plain and inviting others to partake in its energy and culture.
Tiaan Pretorius is a new addition to the South African Rugby Sevens team, set to represent the Blitzboks at the upcoming Singapore Sevens. Despite a challenging season, Pretorius is optimistic about the team’s potential to surpass their toughest competitors and has a personal interest in overcoming his recent injury to contribute to the team’s objectives. With a renewed sense of purpose under new coach Philip Snyman, the Blitzboks are playing for pride and could potentially make a surprising comeback in the world of Rugby Sevens.
David Beckham is a football legend, style icon, and successful businessman. His exceptional skills on the field and trademark set pieces made him a global phenomenon and transformed him into a fashion icon. He has ventured into various business partnerships and even launched his signature sunglasses brand. At 49, Beckham’s life and career serve as an inspiration for anyone looking to achieve success beyond their initial dreams.
South African boxing legend Dingaan Thobela, also known as the “Rose of Soweto,” passed away at the age of 57. Thobela was a twotime world champion in two weight categories and represented unity and national pride for his country. Although his life outside the ring was not without controversy, his resilience and perseverance continue to inspire future generations, and his legacy goes beyond his sporting triumphs, reflecting his unyielding spirit and love for his country. His passing was a great loss for the boxing community, which had recently lost another former champion.
The Eastern Cape province in South Africa has launched a groundbreaking strategy for the commercialization of cannabis, aimed at diversifying the economy and creating employment opportunities. The strategy involves controlling the entire production cycle from planting to packaging, and has already helped over 120 cannabis farmers obtain hemp permits. The investment in infrastructure is intended to benefit the province’s youth and women, with the aim of promoting inclusive growth.
Kwagga Smith is a South African rugby player who is currently playing for the Shizuoka Blue Revs in Japan. He has been instrumental in boosting the growth of rugby in Japan, with the sport’s popularity reflected in substantial game turnouts. Despite enticing offers from other countries, Smith chose to remain loyal to the Shizuoka Blue Revs due to the favorable balance between club and international rugby that Japan offers. His personal journey is a testament to the rise of rugby in Japan and his unwavering pursuit of passion.
The Orlando Pirates have shown resilience and perseverance this season, bouncing back from a disappointing 2023 season. Despite setbacks, the Pirates emerged stronger and more determined, securing a symbolic win over their rivals and enjoying an impressive streak of four consecutive matches without defeat in April. Individual triumphs, such as that of Cameroonian forward Souaibou Marou, have also added to the squad’s journey. Looking towards the future, the Pirates aim to maintain their momentum and secure a place in the CAF Champions League while clinching the Nedbank Cup title.
Virgin Active Gym has implemented an inclusive policy that allows transgender individuals to use bathrooms corresponding with their legally recognized gender. This policy emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and respect for individual identities, but has also sparked debate around privacy and safety concerns on social media. Virgin Active has reaffirmed their support for individuals who have completed their transition process and addressed safety concerns, highlighting the corporate challenge of balancing inclusivity and safety while promoting a broader societal dialogue on gender identity and inclusivity.
Cape Town’s firefighters have faced a challenging summer season with a significant increase in vegetation fires and total incidents compared to the previous year. The city supports their firefighting response with aerial support during the summer months, including two helicopters and a spotter plane. As International Firefighters Day approaches, it’s essential to honor the dedication and bravery of Cape Town’s firefighters, who have persevered through one of their busiest summers yet.
The Free State’s Active Role in Modifying the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill
The Free State community gathered to contribute their suggestions for the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill, proposing the appointment of a Deputy Chairperson for the Joint Standing Committee on Intelligence and a Deputy InspectorGeneral of Intelligence, as well as the differentiation between domestic and foreign intelligence services and the establishment of a South African National Intelligence Academy. Youth engagement in matters related to national security and concerns about security challenges experienced by residents were also discussed. Renowned organisations and individuals provided their feedback, with differing opinions on the Bill’s provisions. The Bill is now heading towards its final public hearing in East London.
On April 23, 2024, two security contractors were killed while guarding City of Cape Town employees during a sewer pipe repair operation in Philippi, South Africa. The incident has affected City services in parts of Philippi and led to the extension of tactical response and security escort services to all staff and contractors working in the area. The City has launched an antiextortion campaign, including a 24/7 hotline and reward system, calling on residents to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to promote peace and progress in their communities. The City has also spent over R8.5 million on private security escorts due to the increase in attacks on staff during working hours.
Jacques Kallis is not your average cricket star. He not only excelled on the cricket field, but he also made smart financial decisions, making him one of the wealthiest cricketers in the world. His net worth ranges from $25 million to $70 million, and he has invested in properties, businesses, luxury cars, and philanthropic ventures. Kallis is a wellrounded individual who balances his professional and personal life with ease, serving as a source of inspiration for many.
The 2024 Africa’s Travel Indaba is set to showcase the best of the continent’s travel experiences and honor PanAfrican tourism. With over 990 exhibitors from 26 African nations and more than 1,000 buyers from 36 nations, the event is one of the top global travel and tourism trade exhibitions. It plays a vital role in the tourism sector and the wider economy, injecting R1.2 billion into the South African economy and generating or maintaining 2,295 jobs. This year’s theme, “Unlimited Africa,” aims to challenge dated perceptions of Africa and highlight the continent’s growth and boundless potential.
SuperSport United is facing a performance crisis with twelve winless matches, but coach Gavin Hunt and defender Lyle Lakay offer hope and resilience. Hunt provides insight into the harsh realities of their situation, while Lakay presents an optimistic attitude towards recovery. The recent performance illustrates the unpredictable nature of football, but under the guidance of their experienced coach and the fighting spirit of their veteran players, SuperSport United has the potential to rise again.
South Africa mourned the tragic death of Senzo Meyiwa, their beloved goalkeeper, who was shot and killed during a family dispute in October 2014. The ensuing legal proceedings revealed a dark tale of turmoil, rage, and brutal aggression involving Meyiwa’s close allies and family members, with Longwe Twala accused of firing the fatal shot. The search for truth and justice continues, bringing some comfort to those impacted by this heartbreaking incident.