Cape Town plans to establish six new nature reserves and expand nine existing ones to balance urban expansion with environmental sustainability. The city employs land banking and biodiversity offsets to preserve its unique biodiversity and natural assets. Collaborative efforts with CapeNature and local communities ensure transparent guidelines and public involvement, making Cape Town a model for sustainable urban development.
Eastern Cape MEC for Health, Nomakhosazana Meth, is calling for increased food safety inspections and penalties for store owners who sell expired products in South Africa. This comes after a surge in foodborne illnesses across the nation, particularly among school children. Meth has urged municipalities, law enforcement agencies, and other stakeholders to enhance food safety inspection procedures to protect children from expired items and ensure that store owners who violate the law are held responsible. The responsibility for food safety also falls on consumers to be cautious about where they buy their food.
The Gauteng Department of Health is taking steps to improve mental health services in the province by expanding access to experts, rehabilitation services, and acute mental health beds. They are also working towards eliminating stigma and discrimination, addressing workforce shortages, and providing preventative and interventional mental health care through various teams and initiatives. Their goal is to create a more inclusive and empathetic society that prioritizes mental health and wellbeing for all.
The Welisizwe Bridges Project, a collaboration between the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), and the Provincial Departments of Transport, is an ambitious threeyear initiative with a R3.3 billion budget allocation to build 134 bridges across six provinces in rural South Africa. The project not only provides access to essential services but also creates numerous employment opportunities through the Expanded Public Works Programme, offering valuable skills to the workforce. The initiative symbolizes the government’s dedication to addressing inequality and improving the wellbeing of its citizens, serving as a blueprint for similar programs in other countries.
South Africa’s National Senior Certificate Examinations are about to begin, with over 900,000 students participating across 6,898 centers. These exams are critical for students as they determine eligibility for higher education and other tertiary institutions. The South African government is dedicated to supporting these students and has invested significantly in the education sector, providing equal opportunities for all learners. The Class of 2023’s success in these exams will pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous South Africa.
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has uncovered irregularities in a personal protective equipment (PPE) contract awarded by the National Department of Transport to Ecko Green Environmental Consulting (Pty) Ltd worth R8,072,000. The SIU found the procurement process was unlawful and Ecko Green was not registered on the government’s Central Supplier Database (CSD) when the contract was awarded. Additionally, Ecko Green had altered details of another company on the CSD in order to submit bid documents to the Department of Transport. The company has been instructed to repay R1,701,000 plus interest.
Acting Premier Nono Maloyi is confident in the success of Grade 12 learners in North West as they prepare for their final exams. The province has registered over 46,000 candidates who will take their exams in 448 centers, with technical readiness and safety measures in place. The collaboration between students, teachers, parents, and communities demonstrates the power of education and offers hope, determination, and cooperation towards academic success and personal fulfillment.
The matric class of 2023 has shown remarkable determination and resilience in their academic journey, despite the challenges brought by the pandemic. The students, with the support of their teachers, families, and peers, are ready to take on their final exams and achieve greatness. Teachers deserve recognition for their dedication and teaching expertise, which have greatly influenced the students. The diversity within the class further underscores the value of unity and inclusivity. The students should remember to balance their studies with selfcare practices and take pride in their hard work and dedication.
Discover the enchanting city of Cape Town through its art, food, and entertainment in this feature that highlights the city’s vibrant culture, stunning views, and exciting events. Join foraging workshops at Veld & Sea, heed the warnings about smashandgrab incidents, and celebrate the rebirth of South African Airways. Delight in the return of beloved fish spreads at Pick n Pay and indulge in the culinary creations of Franschhoek Creates. Don’t miss out on the Galileo Open Air Cinema and the sweet gift given to rugby star Ox Nche.
Barcadia in Cape Town is a unique combination of a retro arcade bar and contemporary gaming hub. With classic arcade games, a PlayStation 5, and a Stern KISS pinball machine, Barcadia caters to both oldschool and modern gamers. Visitors can enjoy freshly made popcorn and a variety of alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks while taking in the vintage ambiance of the venue. Entry is limited to adults aged 21 and over, and Barcadia is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 6 pm to 2 am.
South Africa is taking significant steps to improve its education sector, with a focus on initiatives such as enhanced security measures and contingency plans for national exams, adoption of the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill, and infrastructure development. The country is also working to address challenges and unlock the potential of its youth through early learning programs and engagement with stakeholders. These efforts highlight the collaborative dedication of various departments, institutions, and stakeholders towards a bright future for South Africa’s education landscape.
The History Channel’s new show, “Why Does Everyone Hate the British Empire?” uses comedy to explore Britain’s controversial past with famous British comedian Al Murray and comedians from colonized countries like South Africa’s Loyiso Gola. The show takes a conversational approach, shedding light on unique stories without taking a particular stance. With humor, historical exploration, and insightful conversation, the show offers a fresh and engaging way to examine Britain’s colonial past. It encourages viewers to reflect on historical events, contemporary issues, and enjoy a good laugh.
South Africa’s Quinton de Kock scored his third century of the Cricket World Cup, helping his team achieve a challenging target of 382/5 against Bangladesh in Mumbai. De Kock’s stunning 174run knock off 140 balls included 15 fours and seven sixes, leaving an indelible mark on the match. Bangladesh must now chase a daunting target of 383 runs to secure a victory in this roundrobin clash.
The Springboks won their fourth Rugby World Cup victory with a heartstopping 1211 win against the All Blacks. The victory was not just a sports achievement, but a symbol of hope, unity, and national pride for South Africa. Fans showed their elation on social media, and the Springboks’ triumph serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance, grit, and unity in the human spirit. It also shows the beauty and power of sports to inspire, unite, and create lasting memories.
Matthew Perry, the beloved actor who played Chandler Bing on the hit TV show Friends, has tragically passed away at 54. He was found unresponsive in his jacuzzi and thought to have drowned, with no signs of drug use or foul play. While his official cause of death is yet to be confirmed, Matthew Perry will be remembered for his incredible talent, humor, and lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.
The Langa Sports Complex in South Africa is undergoing a R4 million renovation project aimed at fostering community development and athletic prowess. The initiative by the City’s Recreation and Parks Department includes upgrades to fencing, field rehabilitation, and maintenance plan, with the aim of establishing a secure and accessible environment for sports and recreation. The project serves as a significant investment in Langa’s future and sporting success, with the complex boasting a rich legacy of nurturing national athletes, including Thabo Mngomeni, Themba Bavuma, Thami Tsolekile, and Sinazo Mcatshulwa.
