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Cape Town News
Naturalised citizens in South Africa are facing a daunting task of obtaining a smart ID card that represents their citizenship rights, despite fulfilling the necessary criteria. The Department of Home Affairs’ inefficiencies are the root cause of this issue, leading to them being viewed as secondclass citizens. Even after a decade of the introduction of smart ID cards, the situation remains unchanged, and naturalised citizens continue to fight for recognition and justice.
South Africa’s Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, will participate in a session of Questions for Oral Reply, emphasizing the country’s commitment to transparency and accessibility. The National Assembly will also gather to examine committee reports on various bills and host a debate on investing in women, showcasing the country’s dedication to gender equality and women’s rights. The events contribute to a noteworthy day in the history of South African parliamentary procedures, highlighting the country’s commitment to public accessibility and transparency.
Reg Bamford is a champion in both croquet and cycling. He has won numerous titles in croquet, including the Golf Croquet and the Association Croquet World Championships. He has been ranked as 29th among the 100 Best Sportspeople in the World for 2020 by Sports Media. Bamford is also a successful businessman, founding the company Sable International. At the age of 56, he completed the 109km route of the Cape Town Cycle Tour with an impressive time of 5:56:28, showcasing his versatility and dedication to sports.
Bitcoin’s value has skyrocketed to over $72,000, thanks to legislative changes and events that have made it easier for traditional investors to integrate Bitcoin into their portfolios. The recent endorsement of Bitcoin ETFs by US regulators and the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK has propelled cryptocurrency into the mainstream, leading to an influx of $10 billion in Bitcoin ETFs in the US. The increasing interest from institutional investors and the upcoming halving event in Bitcoin mining are also contributing factors to its current trajectory. However, investors are advised to be cautious as Bitcoin remains highly volatile.
Blaauwberg is getting a major makeover! This ambitious rejuvenation plan covers a vast geographic stretch with a comprehensive overhaul of multiple roads, new sidewalks, and traffic management solutions. The project is expected to bring substantial changes to the lives of Blaauwberg’s residents and will transform the region into a shining example of Cape Town’s dedication to progressive urban planning and development. Let’s look forward to the transformation and the benefits it will bring, including improved transportation routes, pedestrian safety, and smoother traffic flow.
Despite battling cancer at 75, King Charles III remains committed to his role as the British monarch and has stepped back from public appearances to focus on less visible duties. Prince William and Queen Camilla have taken on additional royal duties while he battles his health issue. King Charles III’s resilience embodies the enduring spirit of the monarchy and its capacity to adapt and persevere amidst challenges.
Zululand’s economic progress is facing challenges due to crime, which threatens the stability of the business sector and the safety of citizens. President Cyril Ramaphosa and his administration engaged in a dialogue with Durban’s business community to tackle these issues and lay the groundwork for the KwaZuluNatal (KZN) economy’s expansion. SAPS has made considerable progress in combating criminal organizations and individuals despite budgetary restrictions, and the business sector, civil society, and law enforcement need to work together to create a safe business environment. However, the government remains devoted to ensuring that police continue their work across the region to improve law enforcement in identified areas.
The South African Springboks rugby team is eagerly anticipating the start of their 2024 Test season, which will kick off with a match against Wales, followed by two matches against Ireland and a oneoff match against Portugal. There is much excitement surrounding the team’s selection, with rugby director Rassie Erasmus at the forefront of speculation. Fans are also curious about who will wear the No 13 jersey and who will start as hooker and No 8. The season promises to be a thrilling display of skill, strategy, and rivalry for rugby fans worldwide.
The Oscars 2024 was an enthralling musical extravaganza, featuring Ryan Gosling’s reprisal of Barbie’s Ken role and performances by Billie Eilish, Ludwig Goransson, and Becky G. Gosling’s charismatic performance stole the show, backed by a group of male dancers wearing cowboy hats. The night showcased the transformative power of music and art, captivating and entertaining the audience. The event celebrated art, talent, and the enduring magic of cinema and music.
International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the remarkable achievements of women worldwide. This year’s theme, “Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress,” is a reminder that advancing women’s empowerment and achieving gender equality is crucial for societal advancement and economic prosperity. Pam Tshwete, the Deputy Minister of Human Settlements, is an advocate for women’s involvement in policies and regulations, empowerment programs, and establishing a Women in Human Settlements Task Team. Women in the human settlements delivery value chain plead for investment through a social compact to ensure the poor have access to adequate housing.
Minister Kubayi addressed the International Women’s Day gathering in East London, highlighting the enduring stereotypes and cultural prejudices that impede women’s advancement in sectors traditionally dominated by men. She emphasized the need to invest in women and urged women to become pioneers in the market. Despite progress in women’s rights, Kubayi drew attention to the continuing struggle with gender inequality.
South Africa’s elite athletes are gearing up for the Paris 2024 Olympics, with sprinter Wayde van Niekerk, breaststroke sensation Tatjana Schoenmaker, and surfer Jordy Smith among the stars set to make an impression on the world stage. The Olympics will be an exciting platform for these athletes to showcase their skills and strive to carve out their legacy in their respective sports. These five South African athletes personify the country’s Olympic ambitions, each shouldering the burden of hope with poise and resolve.
South Africa’s Parliament is a busy center of legislative activity, with a packed schedule that includes Q&A sessions, committee meetings, debates, and evaluations of bills. The proceedings play an important role in Parliament’s examination and oversight of executive actions, as stipulated by the Constitution. This week’s schedule includes presentations by government officials, debates on national and international issues, evaluations of fiscal proposals, and parliamentary group meetings. As citizens, it is important to stay engaged with these proceedings to ensure a better future for the country.
A report by South Africa’s AuditorGeneral has uncovered significant monetary discrepancies at both provincial and national government levels, in contravention of the Public Finance Management Act. Material irregularities (MIs), including any breach of legislation, fraudulent activities, theft, or a violation of fiduciary obligations, were identified during an audit conducted under the Public Audit Act. Detecting and taking action against MIs fosters responsibility, safeguards resources, and promotes an ethical culture, fortifying public sector entities to more effectively serve South African citizens. The committee emphasized the importance of prevention over rectification and quick action over hesitation in safeguarding the integrity of public finances.
The National Status of Biological Invasives and their Management report emphasizes the urgent need to prevent, detect, and control invasive species in South Africa. This threat not only harms biodiversity but also impacts various sectors of the economy, agriculture, water resources, and public health. South Africa has implemented an effective regulatory system to manage biological invasions and is a vanguard in invasion science. However, addressing biological invasions requires a united response from all sectors, and the report serves as a wakeup call to act decisively.
The 2024 Forbes Woman Africa Awards celebrated women’s achievements in various industries, coinciding with International Women’s Day celebrations and emphasizing sustained dedication to gender parity. Minister Maropene Ramokgopa highlighted the historical roots of gender equality in Africa, advocated for progress and protection against genderbased violence, and emphasized the necessity of women’s economic empowerment and education. The event was attended by esteemed personalities and was an evening of empowerment, with a focus on the need to sustain progress towards gender equality.
