urban planning community participation

Transforming Cape Town: The Proposed Gordon’s Bay Development Area Master Plan

by

The Gordon’s Bay Development Area (GBDA) in Cape Town is undergoing an exciting transformation with the release of the Local Spatial Development Framework (LSDF). The LSDF integrates urban design, environmental conservation, and economic growth, and residents can shape the plan by attending open house meetings, providing feedback online or via email, and reviewing hard copies of the plan before the March 22nd deadline. The LSDF represents a collaborative effort to create sustainable growth and preservation in the GBDA, creating a vibrant and sustainable future for the community.

animal rights public safety

Unsettling Event in Newlands Forest: A Clash of Religion, Animal Rights, and Public Safety

by

An alleged religious sacrificial ritual involving live poultry in Newlands Forest caused an evacuation and the execution of 62 chickens by the Table Mountain National Park security team. The incident raises concerns about balancing religious freedom, animal rights, and public safety. Respect for animals, adherence to bylaws, and open dialogue about such sensitive issues are crucial for a harmonious coexistence of all beings in communal spaces. The need for increased vigilance and education in humane treatment of animals is also highlighted.

south africa wto

The Historic Endorsement of the Global Pact on Fisheries Subsidies: A South African Perspective

by

South Africa’s National Assembly has approved the World Trade Organization’s Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, marking a significant milestone in sustainable growth and reinforcing the country’s dedication to environmental conservation. The agreement aims to regulate harmful fisheries subsidies and safeguard global fish supplies, benefiting coastal communities and smallscale fishers who rely heavily on fish as a primary source of protein. This achievement aligns with the first Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target, making it the first SDG target to be fully accomplished and the first achieved through a multilateral agreement.

south africa legislative revolution

South Africa’s Legislative Revolution On 20th February 2024

by

On February 20th, 2024, South Africa’s National Assembly passed several bills that aim to *transform the nation’s socioeconomic environment*. The bills include the Revenue Laws Amendment Bill, the Plant Health (Phytosanitary) Bill, the Deeds Registries Amendment Bill, and the Municipal Fiscal Powers and Functions Amendment Bill. These bills address issues related to the pension system, phytosanitary system, land tenure rights, and development charges. The passage of these bills reflects the National Assembly’s dedication to *promoting economic growth and sustainable development*.

desmond tutu leah tutu

Unveiling the Historical Desmond and Leah Tutu House in Cape Town

by

The Desmond and Leah Tutu House in Cape Town is a historically significant building that has been renamed after two of South Africa’s most respected natives Desmond Tutu and his wife, Leah Tutu. The building serves as a peace center, archive center, museum, and office space, symbolizing the healing process South Africa was undergoing and standing as a tribute to the Tutu’s legacy of promoting compassion, resilience, and unity. The renaming signifies a recommitment to social justice, and the Tutus’ hopeful spirit serves as a timely nudge to continue striving towards building a free, fair, inclusive, and prosperous nation.

energy infrastructure scheduled power interruptions

A Brighter Future for Hout Bay: Scheduled Power Interruptions and the Evolution of Energy Infrastructure

by

Hout Bay will experience scheduled power interruptions on February 21st and 28th, 2024, for critical maintenance of the Bisschop electricity substation. The upgrade signifies the city’s commitment to infrastructure advancement and providing consistent, highquality public utilities for residents. Safety measures and precautions are in place to minimize the disruption and protect residents and appliances. The temporary lack of electricity represents a minor concession for the larger benefit of a brighter, more secure future with a resilient power supply.

urban mobility n2 express bus service

The Crucial Continuation of the N2 Express MyCiTi Bus Service Agreement: Upholding Urban Mobility in the City

by

The N2 Express bus service agreement in Cape Town is set to be extended until 2026, highlighting the city’s commitment to urban mobility. The Mayoral Committee proposed the twoyear extension to ensure the service continues until the second phase of the MyCiTi bus service commences. The N2 Express service provides vital transportation for commuters from Mitchells Plain and Khayelitsha to the central business district, and the extension will further enhance the link between the metrosoutheast and Wynberg and Claremont. The city is dedicated to retaining a practical, effective, and reachable transportation system, ensuring its citizens stay linked and mobile in their everyday lives.

teen pregnancy contraceptives

Cape Town’s Concern: The Growing Incidence of Teen Pregnancy

by

Cape Town is facing an alarming surge in teenage pregnancies, with a 78% increase in the number of adolescent girls seeking their first antenatal visit during FY 20222023. This rise is accompanied by a significant drop in the use of contraceptives, highlighting the need for comprehensive sex education and awareness initiatives. The situation poses a significant risk to the young mothers’ education and future, emphasizing the need for coordinated public health interventions to address the issue. Despite the concerning trend, there are some encouraging developments, such as the rise in the number of individuals seeking PreExposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV.

south africa deputy public protector

The Hunt for South Africa’s Next Deputy Public Protector: A Call for Public Participation

by

The public is being invited to participate in the selection process for South Africa’s next Deputy Public Protector, with the Committee on Justice and Correctional Services welcoming comments on shortlisted candidates until February 23, 2024. The role is of significant importance to ensuring justice in the country, with the selection strategy designed to guarantee the appointment of the best fit for the position. Applicants are required to meet minimum requirements, with the DPP position demanding a significant level of responsibility and an annual remuneration of R1,924,542.

south african legislation ambiguity in laws

Reflection on Mpumalanga’s Public Hearings on Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill: End of an Era

by

The General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill in South Africa has raised concerns due to its vague language and potential threat to citizens’ rights and privacy. Public hearings in Mpumalanga gave attendees the opportunity to voice their worries and suggest stronger supervision systems to protect against undue surveillance and intrusion. The bill’s clarification of essential terminology was a key issue, along with the potential suppression of opposition and the importance of whistleblowers. The conclusion of the public hearings marks the beginning of comprehensive deliberations on the bill, highlighting the power of public participation in shaping legislation.

judicial controversy south african parliament

South Africa’s Parliament Addresses Judicial Controversy

by

South Africa’s Parliament is standing by its decision to dismiss Judges John Hlophe and Nkola Motata, arguing that the current laws provide ample basis to proceed with their removal. The Parliament maintains that the Judicial Services Commission is the suitable body to make the necessary findings and that it is not within its jurisdiction to duplicate their work. The Parliament’s position serves as a reminder that democracy is a continuous process and maintaining the balance between the three branches of government is crucial.

south african parliament budget speech

The Parliamentary Pulse: A Comprehensive Weekly Report

by

South Africa’s parliament witnessed a thriving political landscape this week with the budget speech, judicial reports, policy dialogues, committee efforts, technological advancements, and international relations. Approximately 50 committee meetings were held, contributing to the strength of South African democracy. The week was marked by significant public involvement in the legislative process and digital transformation, and international relations were also in focus as the Request for the Approval of the World Trade Organisation Fisheries Subsidies Agreement was reviewed.

women's health cervical cancer

Launching a Remarkable Effort: Tackling Cervical Cancer in the Western Cape

by

The Western Cape is launching an initiative to combat cervical cancer by providing free HPV vaccines to girls aged nine and above in public and special education institutions. The program aims to achieve over 80% coverage annually and empower young women. The campaign aligns with the World Health Organization’s goal to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health menace by 2030 and highlights the Western Cape as an innovative region in healthcare.

emerging artist programme investec cape town art fair

Unveiling Genius: The Emerging Artist Programme and Its Gifted Offspring

by

The Emerging Artist Programme (EAP) is a scheme that supports underprivileged artists by providing opportunities for instruction, mentorship, networking, and exhibition of their creations. The EAP has helped many artists gain skills, polish their art to a professional standard, and prepare for the art market and exhibition. The Investec Cape Town Art Fair celebrated the contributions of five burgeoning artists from the EAP, who credit the programme for aiding in their artistic development and providing essential knowledge about the industry.

homelessness winter readiness

Shelter Support Amidst Frosty Winter: A Focus on the Winter Readiness Programme

by

The Winter Readiness Programme helps shelters provide refuge for homeless individuals during the cold winter months by offering resources and support to assist more people. The program’s objective is to empower these vital organizations and create additional sleeping spaces without forcing them to build permanent housing. To participate, organizations must be registered as NonProfit or Public Benefit Organizations, possess the facilities to house clients, meet health and safety guidelines, and complete site evaluations. The application deadline is March 8th, 2024.

1 … 47 48 49 50 51 … 428