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Cape Town News
Mitchells Plain, a suburb in Cape Town, is closing pedestrian and cycle lanes that have become hotspots for criminal activity in an initiative to combat crime. Since 2013, 57 lanes have been effectively shut down, with an additional 15 in the process of closure. Proposals for lane closures are reviewed by the local Subcouncil, followed by a public participation process, department assessments, and funding allocation. Mayor Geordin HillLewis leads the funding efforts, with R600,000 allocated from July 2024. The initiative demonstrates communityled urban planning to transform public spaces into safer environments.
The story of a crime lord, a detective, and a lawyer in South Africa’s criminal underworld is filled with deception, betrayal, and digital manipulation. Advanced digital tracking systems were used to stalk and attempt to assassinate targets, highlighting the need for strong cyber laws and digital forensic capabilities. The tale shines a spotlight on individuals who continue to pursue justice despite threats to their own lives and reminds us that the battle against organized crime is far from over.
Former Miss World and Miss South Africa, Rolene Strauss, has opened up about her personal experience with HIV to break down the stigma surrounding the virus. After contracting HIV while caring for a patient, Strauss underwent postexposure prophylaxis while nursing her child and subsequently became an advocate for maternal and child health. She is now part of the ForeverWena campaign, which provides support and information to those in need, and emphasizes the importance of awareness, preparedness, and empowerment in tackling HIV.
Justice Yvonne Mokgoro was an extraordinary trailblazer, breaking through barriers to become the first black woman appointed to South Africa’s Constitutional Court. Her legacy extends beyond South Africa, as she presided over the UN’s Internal Justice Council and was appointed as the inaugural chair of the Independent Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Justice and Equality in LawEnforcement by the UN Human Rights Council. Her legal philosophy centered around human dignity, and her judgments consistently championed the rights of the most vulnerable members of society. Her life and legacy serve as a potent reminder of our shared responsibility to build a society centered on true equality, liberty, and respect for human rights.
Leon Schuster, the beloved South African comedian and actor, celebrated his 73rd birthday with his characteristic resilience despite personal struggles and physical challenges. Schuster’s unwavering spirit and positivity continue to inspire and guide fans through life’s most formidable challenges. Although he has been grappling with physical and mental distress, Schuster remains a beacon of resilience, inspiration, and joy, his infectious laughter, radiant smile, and high spirits never wavering.
The importance of safety adherence in the construction industry has been emphasized following recent building disasters in South Africa. The Department of Employment and Labour is committed to conducting detailed examinations and introducing necessary precautions to safeguard workers. The Ballito building disaster that took four lives has left a lasting impact on the community, and investigations have established a connection between the contractor managing the construction work and the owner of the private house. The government urges all employers to understand and adhere to health and safety laws to avoid the repetition of such tragic incidents.
The City has introduced a debt relief initiative for eligible citizens to absolve overdue debts and cultivate a culture of consistent payment. The initiative has two purposes: providing relief to eligible citizens and encouraging regular payments. Eligibility requirements and application guidelines are clear, and the City’s social support proves the effectiveness of such programs. It serves as a financial lifeline for those trapped in old debts, bearing witness to the City’s dedication to its residents, and fortifying the financial backbone of the city and its residents in the process.
The rivalry between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates in South African football extends beyond the field and into the player transfer market. Both clubs are competing for the best talent in the country, including players such as Stanley Nwabali, Oswin Appollis, and Elias Mokwana. The competition for top players is only escalating, with both teams looking to strengthen their squads for the upcoming season. The strategic importance of player transfers is highlighted in this ongoing saga, as every decision can drastically alter a club’s future trajectory.
South Africa’s municipal offices are temporarily closing physical operations on election day, encouraging citizens to use the range of online services available. The city’s digital initiative to enhance user experience reflects its commitment to adopting digital technology, including an online booking system for appointments and QR code payments. This move towards digitalization is a testament to the city’s dedication to providing efficient services and building a futuristic city where resident convenience takes center stage.
Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management Centre (DRMC) is preparing for potential hazards of the upcoming winter season by holding advisory forums, developing operational plans, and guiding residents to take an active role in protecting their homes and neighborhoods from potential weatherrelated threats. The city has experienced extreme weather incidents such as an intense drought and an increase in lightning strikes, fires, and strong winds. The DRMC plays a critical part in organizing the city’s initiatives to guarantee winter preparedness, identifying highrisk areas, carrying out educational outreach programs, and organizing relief efforts when required.
The Food and Beverages Graduation ceremony in Mbombela celebrates the success of 81 graduates in the training program, marking the start of their bright and promising future. The joint endeavor by diverse stakeholders has proven pivotal to tackling the skills deficit in the hospitality and food and beverages domains. Education is a vital component of national development strategy, generating jobs, enhancing health facilities, and meeting other necessities. The Tourism Sector Recovery Plan aims to ensure longterm sustainability in collaboration with its stakeholders.
A high school water polo game in Cape Town turned violent when two students, Ross Stone and Bingo Ivanisevic, became embroiled in a dispute resulting in Stone losing several teeth and Ivanisevic facing a damage claim of R645,000. The incident has raised questions about the safety and supervision of school sports events. Legal proceedings followed, with both sides presenting different narratives and legal arguments. This incident has highlighted the importance of instilling sportsmanship and fair play in young athletes to prevent such unfortunate events from occurring in the future.
The Zondo Commission was set up in South Africa to investigate corruption and state capture. The President presented the Commission’s report and implementation plan in October 2022, showing the country’s commitment to transparency and accountability. Parliament is actively working on implementing the recommendations, and the upcoming media briefing by Acting Speaker Mr. Tsenoli will highlight the progress made, including the challenges and successes, in carrying out the Commission’s recommendations as part of the country’s ongoing pursuit of a corruptionfree society and a dynamic democracy.
Civil rights organization AfriForum has made progress in its pursuit of a private prosecution case against South African politician Fikile Mbalula, over allegations of corruption relating to a family trip to Dubai in 2016. AfriForum’s Private Prosecution Unit obtained the case file from the South African Police Service after a successful Promotion of Access to Information Act application. The case concerns allegations that Sedgars Sports, a supplier for the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee, funded at least half of Mbalula’s R680,000 vacation.
The Slave Route Challenge is an annual event in Cape Town that offers a handson experience of the city’s historical narrative through a half marathon, a 10km, and a 5km race. The routes guide runners through historically significant locations, such as District 6, the Castle of Good Hope, and BoKaap, offering participants a deep understanding of the city’s origins. More than just a sports event, the Slave Route Challenge is a commemorative celebration of Cape Town’s heritage and culture, fostering a sense of harmony in diversity.
Criminals in South Africa are using innovative tactics to rob motorists, including placing ropes, spikes, and rocks across roads to trip motorcyclists and rob them, as well as placing objects like clothing and rocks on roads to imitate human figures and trick vehicles into stopping. Law enforcement has responded by warning motorists not to stop for road obstructions and to drive cautiously to the nearest petrol or police station. The situation demands creative strategies and a united commitment to ensuring public safety.
