PJ Morton’s latest album, Cape Town to Cairo, is a musical journey through Africa, taking listeners from South Africa to Egypt and back again. The album is a melting pot of various influences, with R&B, soul, gospel, pop, and jazz all seamlessly integrated with unique inspiration derived from Africa. Morton’s commitment to the project was absolute, with a vow not to write any lyrics before or after leaving Africa, resulting in an auditory reflection of his physical journey.
A sudden fire shook the peace of a Friday evening in Sea Point, leaving a woman with severe burns. Eyewitnesses reported the community immediately leaping to action, using resources at hand to extinguish the flames and save her life. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety precautions and the power of community solidarity in times of crisis.
The Parliament of South Africa has extended the deadline for media accreditation for the 2024 Parliamentary Opening to align with digital trends in media. The growing appetite for coverage of the event highlights the media’s indispensable role in promoting public consciousness and transparency in democratic processes. The deadline for online submissions has been extended to Monday, 8th July, at 12:00 noon and applicants must provide essential information, including their roles, media organization, and contact details. Parliament’s proactive approach towards public engagement and education is a laudable move towards encouraging democratic values and transparency.
South Africa’s Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber extended a concession for foreign nationals awaiting visa outcomes due to backlogs, citing its necessity as a safeguard for applicants and to attract international investment, tourism, and employment. However, the political party ATM opposed this decision, stating it undermines the interests of South African citizens and could lead to an influx of foreigners competing for scarce job opportunities. The Democratic Alliance supported the extension, believing it will reduce backlogs and promote economic growth.
Cape Town has made an unwavering commitment to infrastructure development and has invested over R863.6 million in 2023/24 to replace water and sewer pipes. The city has already replaced 35,000 metres of piping and plans to replace even more in the future. This dedication serves as a model for other cities, showing the importance of sustainability and improving the quality of life for residents. The city’s efforts showcase how infrastructural development and preservation form the backbone of building a sustainable urban habitat.
Gayton McKenzie, South Africa’s Sports Minister, has pledged his entire legislative salary to the Joshlin Smith Foundation, which is dedicated to helping lost children. McKenzie’s commitment to child welfare was demonstrated when he personally proposed a R1 million reward for the safe return of Joshlin Smith, who went missing in February 2021. His decision to contribute his ministerial wage to the cause exemplifies true leadership and a commitment to societal betterment. The distressing circumstances surrounding Smith’s disappearance highlight the grim reality of child trafficking, but McKenzie’s unwavering pursuit for justice serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter future.
Cape Town is faced with the decision of whether to extend the Koeberg nuclear power plant’s operation for another 20 years. The city is seeking more time to weigh the potential impact on urban planning and preparedness for nuclear mishaps. Koeberg is the only nuclear power station in Africa, and concerns range from its emergency response plan to legal ramifications. The decision will have significant national and global implications, and the debate on Koeberg’s future extends beyond a citycentric issue.
The National Assembly’s Rules Committee is an essential part of the legislative process in South Africa, shaping policy and guiding procedure. Its decisions can affect the government’s operation and its interaction with the Assembly. The media’s coverage of the committee’s meetings ensures that the legislative process remains fully democratic and participatory. The committee’s recent gathering in 2024 was a crucial discussion that determined the future of South Africa’s legislative proceedings, and media coverage was extensive to make the process accessible to everyone.
The debate over whether to convert a baseball field in Gugulethu, South Africa into a hospital has sparked a resistance movement from locals, including sports teams and healthcare advocates. The Gugulethu Sports and Development Trust argues that the decision was flawed and lacks public participation processes, while others stress the urgent need for healthcare in the region. The ongoing struggle highlights the dilemma of balancing community spaces and increasing demands for essential services.
Excitement is in the air as two Japan Maritime SelfDefence Force training vessels, JS Kashima and JS Shimakaze, visit Cape Town for the first time since the establishment of the Maritime SelfDefence Force. The vessels are currently on the 175day worldwide venture that is the JMSDF’s flagship training program, the Overseas Training Cruise 2024. While in Cape Town, the public will have the opportunity to visit the vessels, offering an exclusive peek into the world of the Maritime SelfDefence Force.
Cape Town is launching a new Safe Space in Muizenberg to offer refuge to the city’s homeless community. Managed by UTurn, a nonprofit organization, the project will provide a range of services including personal development planning, job opportunities, and access to mental health, medical, and substance abuse treatments. Funded by the Mayoral Fund and a private contributor, the project is expected to operate for an initial period of three years and is a critical milestone in Cape Town’s humanitarian efforts to support its vulnerable community.
Sisisi Tolashe is the new Minister of Social Development in South Africa, tasked with overseeing the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grants and the Department of Social Development (DSD). She faces significant challenges, including streamlining the payment method for SASSA grants and potentially rolling out a Basic Income Grant in the future. With her political and public service experience, Tolashe and her deputy, Ganief Hendricks, offer a beacon of hope for South Africa’s most vulnerable citizens, despite the daunting tasks that lie ahead.
In Fourways, Johannesburg, selfproclaimed ‘informal traffic controllers’ have taken on the role of managing traffic at major crossroads. While some appreciate their efforts, others accuse them of exploiting malfunctioning traffic signals for personal gain. The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department urges motorists to treat junctions as mandatory halt points and not encourage these informal traffic controllers. The story offers insight into the complex dynamics of urban life.
A devastating fire tore through the shacks of Nomzamo, Cape Town, claiming two lives and leaving several homeless. The shanties had no formal electricity connections, and residents had been ignored when raising concerns about illegal connections. The tragedy highlights the urgent need for attention to basic living conditions and the widening gap between the affluent and the deprived, but also speaks of fortitude, community, and survival.
MyCiTi bus fares in Cape Town have increased by 5%, causing financial strain for commuters. The increase impacts peak and offpeak travel costs and has been met with criticism due to malfunctioning buses, defective tapout systems, and poor customer service. The City of Cape Town blames rising operational costs for the fare increase. Commuters continue to struggle with financial stress in an increasingly complex urban environment.
The Parliament of South Africa has opened applications for media professionals seeking accreditation for coverage of the 2024 Opening of Parliament Address. This event, held every five years, signifies the start of the new parliamentary term, with the newly elected State President introducing their administration’s vision and priorities. The accreditation process is straightforward, requiring online submission of specific information, bridging the gap between Parliament and citizens, and promoting transparency in the democratic process.
