the ultimate mother city guide
Cape Town News
Cape Town is a hub of entrepreneurial spirit, with the city launching the Cape Town Entrepreneurship Academy in 2022. The virtual educational hub provides over 40 courses for aspiring entrepreneurs to learn about launching and scaling their business ventures. The Academy is managed by The StartUp Tribe in collaboration with the Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, Alderman James Vos, who is dedicated to building an ecosystem teeming with job prospects for young business leaders. The Academy is a testament to the city’s dedication to nurturing an environment favorable to business expansion.
South Africa is working hard to secure its energy future by upgrading and diversifying its infrastructure. This includes tapping into renewable resources, nurturing innovation, and building collaborations to stimulate economic growth and provide affordable energy. Recent advancements include bringing inactive units online, implementing the Standard Offer Programme, and investing in renewable energy and battery storage systems. The government is also planning to procure an additional 2,500 MW of new nuclear capacity and create an Independent Transmission Project Office to attract investment in transmission infrastructure. The focus is on empowering citizens and ensuring equitable access to energy.
South African actress Aletta Bezuidenhout has died at the age of 76, leaving behind an illustrious career in theatre and film. She was known for her performances in productions such as Dusa Stas Fish and Vi, The Resistable Rise of Arturo UI, as well as her work as a playwright and director. Bezuidenhout’s exceptional talent and contribution to South African entertainment has left an immeasurable loss in the industry.
Dr. MJ Phaahla is the Honourable Minister of Health leading South Africa’s health sector. He has been fighting against Covid19 and focusing on Universal Health Coverage, human resource allocation, and infrastructure advancement in healthcare. The government is also addressing surgical procedure backlogs and HIV/AIDS, while advancing digital health systems. Dr. Phaahla emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing the healthcare workforce, creating additional opportunities for doctors, and improving health services with infrastructure advancement.
Seawinds residents became homeowners on February 13, 2024, after receiving title deeds from the City’s Human Settlements Directorate. The event marked a significant milestone in establishing legal ownership and securing potential financial futures for the beneficiaries. The Directorate aims to transform more residents into rightful homeowners to build a legacy for future generations, and over R21.6 million has been earmarked to enhance the tracking and identification of rightful beneficiaries. By creating homeowners, the Directorate is contributing to the creation of a secure, prosperous future for the residents and their descendants.
The future of social grants in South Africa is a crucial issue as over 28 million citizens benefit from them, and the ruling ANC government spends an estimated R253 billion annually on the grants. Opposition parties have made pledges to retain and increase the grants, but their execution depends on multiple factors. The stakes are high, considering the significant impact on the livelihoods of millions of South Africans, and the issue has become a compelling story in South African politics.
Jerry Flannery, former Ireland hooker and assistant coach at Harlequins, has been appointed as the new defence coach of the Springbok team. His past involvement with the team during the World Cup preparations, familiarity with coach Rassie Erasmus’ style of operation, and experience as an international hooker make him the perfect fit for the role. Flannery’s appointment, along with the addition of Tony Brown as the attack coach, signals an exciting shift in the strategic direction of the Springbok team.
Major General Nolitha Tito is the new Deputy Provincial Commissioner of Support Services in Eastern Cape Province. Her appointment is expected to bring positive change to the province’s leadership. Major General Tito has over twenty years of experience in public administration and strategic leadership roles, with a strong focus on human resource management. Her appointment is highly anticipated and welcomed by the wider community.
Itumeleng Khune, the legendary goalkeeper for Kaizer Chiefs, is set to return to the team following his suspension. Fans and teammates are excited to have the seasoned player back, and hope that his return will uplift the team’s spirit. Khune’s impressive skills and positivity are expected to have a significant impact on the squad, and many are eagerly awaiting an official announcement confirming his return to the field.
The Super Bowl LVIII turned into a glamorous fashion runway, outshining New York Fashion Week. Celebrities, athletes, and fashion moguls strutted their stuff on the football stadium in Las Vegas, with Taylor Swift stealing the show in a custom puffer coat by selftaught designer Kristin Juszczyk. The fusion of sports and style created an unforgettable spectacle, with independent brands like Ludovic de Saint Sernin and Area also gaining unexpected exposure. While New York Fashion Week took a backseat, the Super Bowl proved that when fashion meets sports, the result is nothing short of extraordinary.
Gwede Mantashe, the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy in South Africa, has played a crucial role in transforming the mining industry and achieving a fairer system of ownership, management, and acquisition. He highlights the government’s initiatives to cultivate a strong and inclusive mining sector and sustainable energy solutions. Mantashe emphasizes the enduring impact of apartheid and acknowledges the challenges that still exist, but his unwavering commitment to equitable development and honest engagement reinforces his vision of a united, prosperous South Africa.
The ANC government’s housing policies in South Africa have provided millions of houses to impoverished sections of society, contributing to women’s empowerment, emergency and disaster relief, and sustainable housing solutions. Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi leads the charge towards a fairer and kinder South Africa, advocating for social justice and balanced development, rooted in the core values of the ANC. The government’s commitment to continuous improvement is evident in the Draft Human Settlements White Paper, aimed at creating integrated human settlements that respond to modern trends and uphold every South African’s dignity.
Themba Zwane, also known as “Mshishi,” is a veteran football player at 34 but continues to be an essential player for the Sundowns team. Sundowns is reportedly offering him a twoyear deal, showing their interest in preserving his skills. Zwane’s influence, both on and off the field, has been a significant factor in molding Sundowns into the formidable football force they are today, and his career stands as a testament to experience, dedication, and leadership in sports.
Orlando Pirates is developing young talent and signing new players to improve their squad. They recently acquired Thabiso Lebitso and Talent Mbatha during the transfer window. Jabulani Mokone, a promising player from their academy, was also promoted to the senior team. This shows the Pirates’ commitment to nurturing their own talent and could lead to a bright future for South African football.
Devon Hofmeyr, son of famous South African singer Steve Hofmeyr, was arrested and charged with creating public disturbance, assaulting an employee, and impeding a law enforcement official regarding a protest outside a Limpopo courthouse. Hofmeyr is a member of the Bittereinders movement, which aims to create a better South Africa and stands against farm murders. Steve Hofmeyr has asked for financial aid to cover his son’s legal expenses.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile is facing corruption allegations, including nepotism and violating the code of conduct. The accusations, which have been ongoing for several decades, bring to light a trend of distrust and alleged malfeasance in South Africa’s political sphere. The charges could potentially damage public trust and weaken democratic structures, but they also provide an opportunity for transparency and reform within the political system.
