the ultimate mother city guide
Cape Town News
South Africa celebrated the inauguration of the 2024 Human Rights Month at Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Facility, a location heavy with historical weight due to its association with previous violations of human rights. The monthlong observance commemorates the sacrifices made during the country’s fight for democratic freedom, including events such as the National Human Rights Day on March 21st. This year, Sharpeville’s George Thabe Stadium will host the National Human Rights Day Commemoration, symbolically recognizing the sacrifices made by those who fought for liberation.
A citizen’s attempt to intervene in a hitandrun incident highlights the fine line between heroism and unilateral justice in city living. While citizen involvement in deterring crime is crucial, it should not cross legal boundaries. The story serves as a reminder for citizens to collect relevant information and report incidents to the appropriate authorities. It also sheds light on the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in preserving law and order in urban settings.
On March 6, 2024, South Africa’s Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) and the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen their partnership and commitment to financial integrity and accountability within public administration. The MoU aimed to dissuade financial malpractices and reassure the public about the government’s commitment to eliminating financial mismanagement within its ranks. Parliament also invited the public to engage in the democratic process and visit, attend debates, and arrange a tour.
The Speaker of the National Assembly, Ms. Nosiviwe MapisaNqakula, denies allegations of corruption linked to her past role as Minister of Defence and Military Veterans. She believes in honesty and ethical behavior, calling corruption an attack on democracy and governance. Although she faces challenges and controversies, she promises to cooperate with investigations and remains committed to serving the public with integrity. The Parliament of South Africa invites citizen participation, and its members, like Ms. Lindiwe Ntombikayise Mjobo, continue to dedicate themselves to public service despite challenges.
The Bayside Canal Upgrade is a groundbreaking project aimed at balancing urban growth with environmental conservation in Cape Town. The R87.5 million revamp of the canal includes innovative strategies such as sedimentation ponds, a secondary treatment channel, and reed bed ponds, as well as a search and rescue operation to preserve rare and endangered plant species. The upgrade exemplifies the city’s dedication to sustainable urban planning and provides a tangible example of the benefits of balancing growth with environmental protection.
South Africa’s National Assembly Speaker, Ms Nosiviwe MapisaNqakula, will attend the 2024 Women Speakers’ Summit in Paris, organized by the International Parliamentary Union (IPU), on March 67. The summit will bring together women Speakers of national parliaments and women Presidents of regional and international parliamentary assemblies to discuss urgent matters concerning women’s rights including education, equality, health, and the fight against violence. The South African delegation is expected to contribute substantially to the discussions and provide valuable insights based on the South African experience.
In South Africa, a police officer narrowly escaped an assassination attempt by two threatening fugitives. The Ntuzuma police force tracked down the culprits’ vehicle and intercepted them, leading to their arrest on charges of attempted homicide of a police officer and unlawful possession of a firearm. The bravery and dedication of the police force were exemplified in their quick reaction and successful capture of the culprits, reinforcing the core values of the South African Police Service.
The disappearance of sixyearold Joslin Smith in Diazville, Western Cape has created a tense and complex investigation, with four individuals currently being interrogated. However, the incident has also created a unifying force among residents, NGOs, law enforcement, and government representatives, who are working together tirelessly to find her. The community remains hopeful for a breakthrough as the investigation continues.
The small township of Diazville is reeling from the disappearance of sixyearold Joslin Smith. The police are actively searching for her, and the community has been urged to stay united and assist in the search. Despite challenges such as misinformation and blamegaming, the community remains resilient and committed to finding Joslin, with the support of the police and Minister of Police General Bheki Cele.
The Summit on Ethical Leadership in Local Government has taken place in South Africa, coinciding with the start of Human Rights Month. The country’s local government AntiCorruption Strategy encourages ethical standards, with a focus on integrity, accountability, and commitment to public service. The Local Government Ethical Leadership Initiative and AntiCorruption Forum are working to instill an ethical culture, including the development of a Code for Ethical Leadership in Local Government. The Ethics Institute, SALGA, and the Moral Regeneration Movement have been instrumental in supporting this endeavor.
The Free State Investment Conference invited business tycoons to explore the many investment opportunities the province has to offer. Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina encouraged investors to take advantage of the province’s economic potential and emphasized the government’s commitment to revitalizing the economy. She highlighted the importance of attracting foreign direct investment and supporting local industrial parks while promoting inclusivity and Black Industrialists. The conference served as a strategic initiative to jumpstart the province’s economic engine and breathe new life into sectors in decline.
A new project called Beacon Valley Rejuvenation is upgrading infrastructure in Cape Town’s Area South with a R68.5 million investment. The project features the establishment of a minisubstation powering homes and businesses, but it is facing challenges due to vandalism and loadshedding periods. The city’s energy squads are implementing innovative strategies to combat the issue and the community is requested to cooperate in safeguarding infrastructure.
Cape Town is working hard to ensure a sustainable water supply as its population grows rapidly. The city has implemented a multifaceted approach that includes clearing invasive species, investing in groundwater and desalination, utilizing treated effluent, and allocating funds for maintenance and upgrades. These efforts are part of the New Water Programme, which aims to diversify and enlarge water resources to guarantee a sustainable future for the city’s growing population.
In 2024, Limpopo was hit by an organized crime syndicate, who committed two business heists in one day. However, the SAPS in the Sekhukhune District quickly apprehended three culprits connected to the crimes through a detailed and systematically executed tactical mission. The culprits are currently awaiting charges associated with business robbery, illegal firearm possession, and perjury. This successful operation showcased the intelligent and knowledgeable law enforcement activity, and offered a sense of relief and security to the terrorstruck residents of Sekhukhune.
The Bayhill Premier Cup Tournament is an annual under19 football competition featuring 32 teams, including clubs from the Premier Soccer League, First Division, and international participants, held in Cape Town, South Africa. The tournament is a platform for emerging players and serves as a unifying event for the community. The championship match is held at the Athlone Stadium, and tickets for matches at Erica Park can be purchased at the stadium entrance, while tickets for the grand final at Athlone Stadium must be prebooked online. This year’s tournament features a diverse range of teams, ensuring representation from across the country and presenting a distinctive challenge to all participants.
Cape Town has launched an extensive household survey in partnership with Kantar to gain a deeper understanding of its diverse residents. The survey covers every suburb within the city limits and aims to shed light on the authentic experiences of people living in Cape Town, addressing matters from resilience and mobility to safety and service delivery. The initiative reflects Cape Town’s unwavering dedication to its residents and is planned as a consistent activity, with a largescale survey scheduled every two years. The city is redefining traditional urban planning and development models by engaging with its residents’ voices.
