the ultimate mother city guide
Cape Town News
Get ready for a celebration of music like no other! The 66th Annual Grammy Awards is happening on February 4th in Los Angeles and it’s all about highlighting the incredible talent and diversity of women in the music industry. With amazing artists like SZA, Taylor Swift, and Billie Eilish leading the nominations, this year’s ceremony promises to be a true celebration of musical excellence. So get ready to sing, dance, and be inspired by the power of music!
Lewis Hamilton, a seventime Formula One World Champion, surprised everyone with his announcement of a switch to Ferrari for the coming year. Ferrari confirmed the multiyear deal, and Hamilton believes it will help him in his chase for an eighth title. The move caused a stir in the Formula One world, and Hamilton expressed his gratitude to his Mercedes family while looking forward to a new challenge with Ferrari.
Cape Town’s innovative energy initiatives have gained global recognition, including a recent visit by the World Bank’s Vice President for Eastern and Southern Africa to the Steenbras Hydro Pumped Storage Scheme. With plans to boost loadshedding protection and substantial infrastructure investment, the city is setting out on a tenyear journey to create the “City of Hope”. The city’s power supply diversification initiatives include LPUs curtailment, Embedded IPP renewable energy, and a Dispatchable IPP Programme, among others. The World Bank has extended invaluable support to Cape Town, providing pinpointed technical assistance to several departments, including Energy, Future Planning and Resilience, and Water and Sanitation.
Kraaifontein’s Maroela South lowcost housing project is making progress towards providing sustainable and affordable housing for its population. The project includes 395 governmentfunded dwelling places and an additional 175 Gap housing units. The initiative not only provides a roof overhead but also promotes community ties, individual and family health, enhances educational opportunities, and ensures easy access to places of employment and economic activity. The Maroela South project is one of many projects undertaken by the Human Settlements Directorate, showing the City’s commitment to housing for everyone.
The Khayelitsha Library in Cape Town experienced a devastating fire in its server room, causing temporary closure and disruption to its programs for the community. However, the spirit of unity and collective responsibility in the community helped to contain the fire and prevent any injuries. The library staff have organized outreach programs to continue serving the community while the building is under restoration, and patrons are urged to use other accessible libraries. Despite this setback, the library stands defiantly, a symbol of resilience and unwavering commitment to keep the beacon of knowledge illuminated.
A daring heist on the Golden Highway in Johannesburg saw armed robbers intercepting a cash van and using explosives to steal an undisclosed sum of money, a rifle, and two pistols from the guards. The culprits fled the scene in a blue Audi and a white Toyota Hilux, prompting a largescale manhunt by the Gauteng police who are urging the public to come forward with any information. The incident highlights the need for enhanced security measures and more robust law enforcement to counter the rising trend of cashintransit heists in South Africa.
February in Cape Town is a month of vibrant energy and enthusiasm, with over 21 events celebrating the city’s diverse cultural, athletic, artistic, and business landscape. From the Cape Town 10s to the Seafood & Jazz Festival, each event offers a unique experience and adds a different color to the city’s rich tapestry. The festival promises to attract over 100,000 individuals, benefiting local businesses and offering an opportunity to showcase Cape Town as a prime venue for events and tourism.
The Small Bay sea wall project in Bloubergstrand is an impressive initiative by Cape Town’s Coastal Management Branch to protect critical services and public infrastructures from wave overtopping and floodwaters. The project involves restoring nearby roads and sewer systems, with an expected completion date of September 2024. Though the project may cause some disruption, it is an emblem of progress blending inventive coastal engineering with mindful community engagement.
The backlog in South Africa’s visa system is hindering economic growth and job creation, and President Cyril Ramaphosa must focus on revamping the system to streamline and simplify the process. This could empower companies and industry players to enhance skills development and elevate employment prospects throughout the country. In addition to visa reform, improvements at the Port of Cape Town and duty reductions in the clothing industry are also important to stimulate economic growth and job creation. Overall, decisive action, a clear vision, and a steadfast commitment to future growth are necessary for South Africa to reach its true potential.
A terrifying reality of human trafficking was unveiled in Johannesburg as six suspects were apprehended for their involvement in the exploitation and abduction of Indian women. These innocent victims were lured under the guise of employment opportunities, only to be subjected to sexual slavery. The successful rescue operation highlights the significance of international collaboration in combating human trafficking and emphasizes the role of public awareness. While investigations are ongoing, this incident serves as a sobering reminder of the farreaching impact of this appalling crime and the need for a unified global effort to combat it.
Experience the future of environmentally friendly living at Cape Town’s My Clean Green Home exhibit, a lifesized, netzero carbon dwelling located at the South Gate of Green Point Park. Visitors can explore the practical showcase of energy, water, and waste efficiency, and learn how to make significant modifications in their dwellings and contribute to a greener, cleaner tomorrow. The exhibit is open on selected dates from February to June 2024, with a virtual tour available for those unable to attend in person. Join the journey towards a sustainable future by taking the first step with My Clean Green Home.
The Welisizwe Rural Bridges Programme is a government initiative aiming to upgrade safety and wellbeing and promote economic growth in rural communities by constructing additional bridges. The launch event was attended by distinguished officials and locals and marked progress and hope for historically underrepresented communities across South Africa. The programme has already provided job opportunities and improved access to healthcare, schools, and workplaces. It stands as a symbol of the government’s commitment to bridge gaps and build a South Africa that future generations can take pride in.
Devastating wildfires in the Western Cape have displaced over 250 individuals and exposed the region’s susceptibility to nature’s whims. The wildfires have ravaged multiple areas, including Overstrand, Breede Valley, and Witzenberg, and firefighters have been working tirelessly to tackle the blazes. The fires serve as a reminder of nature’s formidable power, but also highlight the resilience and tenacity of the Western Cape’s residents.
Kelly Ripa surprised the audience during Madonna’s ‘Celebration’ tour by joining her on stage during the Vogue ballroom segment at Madison Square Garden. Ripa wore a black jumpsuit and a pink feather fanny pack while Madonna sparkled in a corset top and fishnet tights. Fans were delighted by the Queen of Pop’s sharing of the spotlight with Ripa and future surprises are anticipated.
Cape Town and Comic Con are teaming up for a threeyear event series from 2024 to 2026, which will be supported by the city’s Events Department. Comic Con Cape Town draws thousands of pop culture enthusiasts each year, injecting millions into the local economy, and the upcoming event is expected to attract even more attendees. The 2024 edition will feature more exhibitors and take place from April 27 to May 1 at the CTICC 2. Tickets are already available for purchase on eventsincapetown.com.
The planned auction of Nelson Mandela’s memorabilia was halted by the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA), which appealed to prevent the sale of around 74 relics, citing their cultural significance. The auction, arranged by Mandela’s eldest daughter and a New Yorkbased auction house, had attracted controversy and criticism from different sectors, including the government. The suspension of the auction allows SAHRA to continue its mission to conserve the nation’s cultural heritage, highlighting the tension between personal ownership and the preservation of national heritage.
