South Africans are working together to find missing sevenyearold Joslin Smith, with community members, political factions and civic bodies united in their efforts. A R100,000 reward has been offered by Gayton McKenzie, head of the Patriotic Alliance, and the War Against Parental Alienation group has pledged R10,000. Technology including helicopters and drones has been used in the search, but efforts have been hindered by restricted access to areas and negative social media posts. The community’s determination to find Joslin serves as a testament to their resilience in the face of adversity.
Residents of Loyiso Nkohla informal settlement in Cape Town protested for essential facilities, including electricity, water supply, waste disposal bags, and more toilets. The City of Cape Town stated that they have limited resources and obligations towards formal settlements, but assured residents that their concerns are being considered. The community’s fight for basic amenities showcases their resilience and determination to survive and prosper despite neglect.
Cape Town is a lively city with many captivating stories to tell, from maritime adventures to geological events, outdoor experiences to economic realities, and from celebrity culture to adventure ventures. The city’s dynamic spirit is reflected in its many narratives, which range from the mundane to the remarkable. This dossier offers a comprehensive review of recent happenings, providing readers with a broader perspective of the city’s vibrant life and the compelling stories that shape it.
The Koeberg Sewer Pump Station is facing challenges due to sand and foreign debris intrusion, causing regular breakdowns and overflow. The city is addressing the issue by installing a sand trap and screening facility, increasing capacity, acquiring new pumps, and reassessing the berm design. A longterm improvement plan costing R118 million is projected to be completed by 2028. The city has also implemented temporary measures such as a dieseloperated mobile pump and a rising main to manage overflows during peak periods. The goal is to ensure efficient sewage management and protect the environmental health of the Milnerton Lagoon.
UniteBehind is a South African activist group dedicated to promoting transparency and accountability. Their legal confrontations have exposed corrupt practices within the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA), and they have successfully held individuals and organizations accountable for their involvement in the scandal. They continue to advocate for justice and better services for citizens who rely on the rail service.
Planned water supply disruptions are happening in some areas of the city to improve the water supply infrastructure. Citizens are encouraged to store adequate water in clean, sealed containers and keep their taps closed during the disruption phase. The City is managing water pressure more efficiently to reduce potential pipe bursts and unnecessary water wastage. Follow @CityofCTAlerts on Twitter for realtime updates.
Kombo Bere and Daan Terblanche, two promising young cyclists from Vhembe, Limpopo, are preparing to compete in the Cape Epic, despite financial challenges due to corruption and fraud that swallowed the R9.5 million allocated for cycling development in their region. The misallocated funds signify more than lost opportunities for proper training facilities and equipment they robbed the cyclists of their dreams. Despite this setback, Bere and Terblanche remain undeterred, embodying true sportsmanship and resilience as they persist with their training.
Kelly Rowland left a live interview on NBC’s Today Show due to questions about her past with Beyoncé. The persistent focus on her past revealed a larger issue in the entertainment industry: the difficulty of moving away from past identities. Despite the controversy, Rowland’s publicist emphasized her kindness and resilience in the face of constant turbulence in the industry. The event highlights the importance of respecting artists’ privacy and their efforts to establish their own identities separate from their past associations.
The Green Point Tennis Courts in Cape Town have been restored for public use after the eviction of unauthorized inhabitants. The City of Cape Town approached the eviction with both empathy and practicality, offering temporary lodging options and social programs through City Safe Spaces to support social integration and rehabilitation. The City continues to invest in Safe Space transitional shelters to combat homelessness and assist those in need.
The Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities has invited the public to review and provide feedback on 20 candidates for six open positions in the Commission for Gender Equality. This move exemplifies the democratic principle that decisions should not be made about people without their input and underscores the commitment to creating an inclusive society where every citizen can express their views on matters of public importance. The shortlisted candidates are diverse in gender, race, disability, and profession, and the public’s participation highlights the significance of every voice in the journey towards gender equality in South Africa. The deadline for feedback is March 12, 2024.
Ferlon Christians, the leader of the African Christian Democratic Party in Western Cape, boldly declared his support for Israel amid controversy surrounding the International Court of Justice’s hearings regarding Israel’s control over Palestinian territory. His statement, “Long live Israel,” sparked a range of responses, illustrating the complex nature of South Africa’s stance on the IsraeliPalestinian conflict. The ACDP’s longstanding support for Israel has attracted criticism, with opponents accusing the party of endorsing Israeli genocide and fostering racism. The issue remains controversial and requires careful handling and delicate negotiation.
The community in Saldanha Bay is coming together to find missing sevenyearold Joslin Smith. Patriotic Alliance’s leader, Gayton McKenzie, offered a reward of R100,000 to anyone with information about her location, and urged the Western Cape premier and police to take action. The search for Joslin is still ongoing, with calls for communal participation and vigilance to help locate the missing child. The community’s determination to find Joslin demonstrates their unity and strong belief in the power of group effort.
The South African music industry has two intertwined narratives of legal drama and inspiring philanthropy. Bulelwa Nazo faced a legal dispute with Inga Hina over uncompleted music PR work, emphasizing the need for a careful balance between promises and delivery. Meanwhile, rapper Big Zulu’s philanthropic efforts reached a triumphant climax when he organized a fundraising event to rebuild a family’s home, highlighting the resilience, determination, and compassion of the South African music industry. These stories capture the intricate fabric of the South African culture.
Get ready for some family fun in Western Cape! Polkadraai Bike Park, located on the famous Polkadraai Farm, offers an exciting outdoor activity for all skill levels. With diverse trails, natural beauty, and environmentally friendly practices, this 3.5hectare park is perfect for a day out with loved ones. Visitors can enjoy light meals, rent bikes and helmets, and even attend skill clinics. Plus, the park aligns with the Bottelary Hills Renosterveld Conservancy, providing access to even more trails. Come join the community spirit and adventure of the Polkadraai Bike Park!
In a historic decision, Judges John Hlophe and Nkola Motata were dismissed from their judicial roles in South Africa due to gross misconduct. The decision was made by the National Assembly following the Judicial Service Commission’s findings. The dismissal showcases South Africa’s commitment to upholding justice and highlights the accountability mechanisms within the country’s judiciary. The process leading to the decision was lengthy and involved various bodies, demonstrating the regulation and rule of law in the country.
Stakeholders from various backgrounds recently participated in national hearings on the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill, advocating for clearer definitions and boundaries between domestic and foreign intelligence, as well as increased autonomy for oversight mechanisms. The Ad Hoc Committee will now review a report on the public hearings and written comments before engaging with the State Security Agency to address concerns and conduct a detailed examination of the Bill. The hearings mark a significant milestone in the Bill’s journey and highlight the importance of transparency and public engagement in shaping legislation.