Cape Town’s business retention and expansion scheme, launched in 2020, has significantly impacted the city’s economy. The initiative has fostered business growth, modernization, and joint energy management, with businesses saving over R11 million in the first quarter of the 2023/2024 fiscal year. The Load Curtailment Programme encourages companies to decrease energy usage, minimizing the risk of load shedding. The program plans to expand its influence to additional areas, extending benefits to a broader spectrum of businesses.
DJ Prince Kaybee achieved unprecedented success in 2023, with a recordbreaking 10.7 million streams on Spotify. Despite controversies and not dedicating his usual level of effort towards his music, his fans remained steadfast, praising the evergreen nature of his House music. While Amapiano continues to reign supreme in the South African music scene, House music remains relevant and Prince Kaybee’s success serves as proof of its enduring influence.
Fans are buzzing with excitement after Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis posted a joint selfie, hinting at a possible sequel to the beloved Disney film ‘Freaky Friday.’ Curtis teased fans with a caption suggesting a roleswap and a potential sequel. Despite earlier setbacks, fans are eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the film franchise and holding their breath in anticipation of a revival.
English soccer teams continue to dominate in European competition, with Liverpool’s 40 win over LASK and Brighton’s 10 win over AEK Athens highlighting their strength. Rising star Cody Gakpo led Liverpool with two goals, while Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah also scored. Other notable results included West Ham’s lastminute win, Freiburg’s 50 victory, and Atalanta securing the top spot in Group D. However, crowd trouble marred the Aston VillaLegia Warsaw match in the Europa Conference League.
Cavin Johnson has taken over as the temporary coach of South African football team Kaizer Chiefs, with the task of reigniting the team’s past glory. The team has not won a trophy in almost ten years, and Johnson plans to boost the squad with strategic moves during the upcoming transfer window. With a unique leadership approach and a focus on unity, Johnson offers renewed hope to Amakhosi supporters for a potential resurgence in the team’s performance.
Zandi Nhlapo, an esteemed actress and TV host, is making a comeback in BET’s talk show ‘Uncut’ after a decadelong break from acting. She is passionate about being part of a team that spreads joy and happiness and plans to pay tribute to industry veterans who have paved the way for others to flourish. Nhlapo is committed to creating opportunities for the next generation of talent in the media industry and plans to establish her own event and production company.
The ArtsAbility Festival at Cape Town’s Artscape Theatre Centre celebrates diversity and inclusivity by showcasing performers with disabilities. The festival offers workshops, conferences, and theatre performances to give a stage to all participating talents. Structural changes at Artscape ensure an inclusive and accessible arts environment, enriching the comprehensive artistic experience for all visitors. The festival aligns with the seventh African Network for EvidencetoAction in Disability (AfriNEAD) Conference, reflecting a dedication to fostering inclusivity.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa gave a powerful speech at the 2023 UN Climate Change Assembly, highlighting the urgent need for global action on climate change and advocating for innovative financing mechanisms to support developing economies. He emphasized the vulnerability of African nations and championed multilateralism and a universal shift towards a sustainable economy. President Ramaphosa also closed with a rallying cry for global solidarity and cooperation in the face of this critical issue. His speech resonated with hope and resolve, reminding the world of the urgency and necessity of united action.
Kendall Jenner, a renowned model turned entrepreneur, has found remarkable success with her tequila brand, 818, which saw $25 million in sales in 2022. Her recent inclusion in Forbes’ 30 under 30 list is a powerful acknowledgment of her business venture’s extraordinary growth. Jenner’s success demonstrates that with creativity, determination, and the courage to take on challenges, the opportunities are limitless. As we toast to her victory, we eagerly anticipate what the future holds for this young entrepreneur.
The world of royal society is no longer veiled thanks to Omid Scobie’s book ‘Endgame: Inside the Royal Family and the Monarchy’s Fight for Survival’. The book reveals that Prince William singlehandedly stripped Prince Andrew of his royal patronages and criticized his godmother’s racist conduct. Scobie also delves into the media strategy and fashion choices of the royals, as well as their psychology. This book offers a fresh perspective on the monarchy’s future and the complex relationships within the palace.
Ardie Savea, the World Rugby Player of the Year, has signed a oneseason contract with the Kobe Steelers in Japan’s rugby league. He will still play for New Zealand’s All Blacks. Savea’s move is part of a trend that sees several All Black and South African team players relocating to Japan. The Kobe Steelers are excited about Savea’s addition, as he is a role model and a fierce competitor.
John Tlale, a former South African football icon, has been arrested in connection to a theft case involving R1.9million. Tlale, who currently works as a marketing director at Simphonya Construction company, voluntarily turned himself in after news of his arrest warrant came to light. The arrest has cast a grim light on his previously successful football career, sparking a media storm.
The Junior City Council program in Cape Town is an initiative that offers Grade 10 and 11 students an opportunity to learn about the City Council and governmental processes. The program spans over a year and includes sessions, field trips, and workshops guided by the Junior City Council. The initiative aims to mold participating students into City Ambassadors, empowering them with crucial leadership skills and fostering an active sense of citizenship. The program is an innovative and transformative journey that prepares future leaders for Cape Town’s progressive governance.
Sergeant Glender Mathebula is a police officer in South Africa who stands up against GenderBased Violence and Femicide (GBVF). She has an amazing record of capturing offenders and has brought justice to many victims. Sgt. Mathebula’s unwavering dedication to her duty and her commitment to protecting the vulnerable has made her a symbol of resilience in the fight against GBVF. Her story is a reminder that true heroes can be found in the police force, tirelessly working towards a safer world.
South Africa’s broadcasting system is undergoing a radical transformation, as the Broadcasting Bill B322023 proposes to update and regulate the industry for the digital era. The proposed Bill includes guidelines for transparent and ethical governance of the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) SOC Ltd, reflecting a more inclusive and forwardlooking approach. The public has until January 16, 2023, to provide feedback on the Bill, emphasizing democratic participation in shaping South Africa’s digital future. The revision of the SABC SOC Ltd Bill is a commendable leap forward to spearhead the global digital revolution while ensuring accessibility for all South Africans.
Collaboration between government, NGOs, and CSOs is essential for delivering secure and sustainable human settlements in South Africa. The Minister of Human Settlements emphasized the need for productive dialogue and shared goals, recognizing the challenges of providing sufficient housing in the country. Communityled programs, adherence to health and safety regulations, and cooperation between governmental and nongovernmental entities are crucial in reducing inequality, poverty, and unemployment. The Minister’s vision promotes an interconnected and partnershipdriven approach to housing and human settlement policies, inspired by the principles of social unity and persistent democracy.