The Western Cape Safety Plan (WCSP) has taken a significant step forward with the graduation of 33 newly trained Peace Officers (POs). These officers, consisting of 14 from the Overstrand municipal area and 19 from the Drakenstein municipal area, represent the government’s commitment to reinforcing municipal law enforcement capacity. The training, resourcing, and development of these officers, costing over R 1.8 million, is aimed at enhancing safety and combatting crime in urban and rural communities.
In a recent address, South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed gratitude for the National Assembly’s spirited debate on the Presidency Budget Vote. He emphasized the importance of cooperation and collaboration in tackling the country’s challenges. Despite the numerous obstacles facing the nation, including an ongoing energy crisis, high inflation, and a devastating pandemic, President Ramaphosa insists on maintaining an optimistic outlook to drive change.
The City of Cape Town has recently approved an extensive budget for the 2023/24 financial year to promote economic growth and improve living conditions. The city has allocated almost R200 million for various programs, including supporting work seekers, entrepreneurs, small businesses, and highgrowth sectors. An additional R100 million has also been earmarked for capital works focused on the city’s strategic economic assets and informal trading infrastructure.
The importance of providing safe spaces for children to play was highlighted during a week of commemorative events dedicated to children’s wellbeing. International Children’s Day, Child Protection Week, and World Play Day all fell within the same week, prompting reflection on the need for supporting children’s growth and development.
The North West Department of Health launched a preliminary investigation into the allegations of serious misconduct against hospital management. The investigation at MPH is part of a multiphased approach adopted by the department to resolve the challenges experienced at the hospital. MEC Madoda Sambatha emphasized that the precautionary suspension of two officials was not meant to be punitive but to ensure the investigation could proceed without hindrance. As a result, five members of the MPH management have been temporarily relocated to nearby facilities.
The Tshwane City Centre has been facing various challenges over the years, including urban decay and socioeconomic issues. However, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure’s Salvokop mixeduse precinct development project aims to revitalize the city’s core and create an integrated, accessible environment for all its residents.
The City of Cape Town has announced that there will be a temporary suspension of online services due to scheduled power outages at the data centers. This has left the citizens of Cape Town with the need to adapt to the situation during the upcoming weekend.
Minister Thembi Nkadimeng, responsible for CoGTA (Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs), delivered a speech to the South African Parliament on the Presidency budget vote debate. In her address, she emphasized the importance of increasing the state’s capacity and abilities to speed up the provision of essential services, infrastructure development, and maintenance.
Minister Thembi Nkadimeng, from the Ministry of Cooperative Governance and Administration (CoGTA), has revealed a new framework aimed at revitalizing the Community Work Programme (CWP). This initiative aims to tackle the challenges faced by the programme and transform it into a more sustainable and impactful project for the benefit of South Africa’s most impoverished communities.
On May 30, 2023, the Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, Judith Tshabalala, conducted a visit to Rustenburg Local Municipality in North West Province. The purpose of the visit was to assess the water and sanitation challenges that the municipality is facing and propose possible solutions.
The ISTAfrica Conference, organized by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) in South Africa, brought together public and private stakeholders to explore the role of information and communication technology (ICT) in addressing global challenges. Dr. Blade Nzimande, the South African Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, emphasized the importance of international cooperation in science, technology, and innovation to provide innovative solutions for issues like climate change, food security, health, and energy.
In recent years, the use of motorized equipment in recreational angling has become increasingly common, with drones and remotecontrolled boats being popular choices for fishermen looking to enhance their experience. While many have embraced this innovation, others have raised concerns about the impact it may have on marine life and the environment.
The City of Cape Town is set to undergo extensive road resurfacing works in Capri Village, Masiphumelele, and Ocean View. These projects are a necessary investment in the city’s infrastructure to keep up with the demands of a growing population and thriving businesses.
Zoleka Mandela, a wellknown writer and a member of the Mandela family, has been battling cancer for some time. In her recent Instagram post, she revealed the discovery of another brain tumor. Despite this, Mandela bravely remains committed to sharing updates about her journey.
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has released the fourth quarter Political Party Funding Disclosure Report for the financial year 2022/23, marking the eighth publication since the implementation of the Political Party Funding Act on 1 April 2021. This report covers the period from 1 January to 31 March 2023 and follows the firstever Political Party Funding Annual Report released in May 2023, which highlighted the financial year that ended on 31 March 2022.
On June 1, the North West Legislature will witness a significant event as Hon. Basetsana R.S Dantjie, the Speaker of the North West Legislature, presents the budget speech for the 2023/24 financial year. This occasion will take place during the Legislature House Sitting in the Legislature Chamber at 09h00, highlighting the commitment of the North West Provincial government to transparency and accountability.