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Cape Town News
South Africa’s National Shelter Indaba conference has highlighted the significant funding shortfall and logistical hurdles faced by shelters providing support to victims of genderbased violence and femicide (GBVF). The lack of social workers in these facilities and regulatory hurdles are also major challenges. The government and private sector have been urged to provide support, resources, and infrastructure to address the GBVF crisis, which has been likened to the scale and impact of the COVID19 pandemic.
South African footballers are making a name for themselves on the international stage, with players like Lyle Foster, Percy Tau, and Lebo Mothiba among the top earners. Rising stars Bongokuhle Hlongwane and Njabulo Blom are also making their mark. Their exceptional abilities have elevated their financial standing and made them role models for many. Their journey is one of persistence, talent, and commitment, shaping the narrative of South African football history.
Jaroslav Silhavy, the coach of the Czech national football team since 2018, has announced his resignation. Despite leading the team to the quarterfinals of Euro 2020 and securing a spot in Euro 2024, Silhavy faced criticism for erratic performance and a recent scandal involving several players. His future had been uncertain since a defeat in October, and the nightclub incident proved to be the tipping point. Silhavy plans to support the team as a spectator during Euro 2024.
The Orlando Pirates soccer team has been struggling with multiple injuries, but the FIFA international hiatus has given them a chance to recover. Many players, such as Azola Matrose and Innocent Maela, have undergone surgery and are working hard to return to the field. Despite the challenges, the Pirates are determined to come back stronger and reclaim their dominance in the league.
Travis Kelce, a wellknown NFL figure, is learning how to handle the harsh spotlight of fame as he embraces his love affair with pop legend Taylor Swift. Swift’s fandom is in a league of its own, and her influence reaches a level that has even sparked debates among political experts about the influence she could have on U.S. elections. Kelce is drawing insights from one of the music industry’s most successful lyricists and learning how to maneuver through the escalated fame and scrutiny that comes with being involved with a global sensation.
Meghan Markle has distanced herself from the royal family, according to journalist Omid Scobie’s book “Endgame”. She reportedly wishes to disengage completely, while Prince Harry still has unfinished business with the royal household. The couple migrated to Montecito, California, seeking privacy and tranquility, after feeling sidelined and marginalized within the royal clan, which was exemplified by a photo of Queen Elizabeth II alongside Prince Charles, Prince William, and Prince George.
The Tangram Restaurant in Cape Town has been named South Africa’s Best Restaurant with a perfect score of 10 out of 10 at the 2023 Restaurant Week. Chef Tamzyn Ehlers’ commitment to using only the freshest ingredients and delivering visually stunning and flavorpacked dishes is the key to the restaurant’s success. The Tangram offers a unique dining experience with breathtaking views of Table Mountain, Table Bay, and the surrounding vineyards.
Thembinkosi Lorch, a popular soccer player in South Africa, received a threeyear sentence for assaulting his former girlfriend. However, the sentence was postponed for five years, with conditions that he must stay clear of any convictions related to assault with the intent to inflict serious bodily harm. He was also fined R100,000, which will be directly remitted to a GBV organization. Lorch’s case highlights the issue of genderbased violence and the need to eliminate it.
Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius, who was convicted of killing his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp in 2013, is up for parole after completing half of his 13year prison term. The Correctional Supervision and Parole Board will decide if Pistorius is ready for social reintegration and determine his placement date if he is granted parole. Reeva Steenkamp’s mother won’t be attending the parole hearing, but her victim impact statement will be read by advocate Annade ThiartHofmeyr.
The Springboks, South Africa’s Rugby Union squad, have had a remarkable four years with two World Cup victories, a Rugby Championship title, and an accomplished British & Irish Lions series. However, many of their veteran players are nearing retirement, and a new generation of rugby talents is needed to sustain their standing. The introduction of new talent and transfer of leadership will be key for the Springboks to perpetuate their legacy in the future.
Chommies is a film that showcases Eli Beukes’ expert surfing skills in South Africa’s picturesque coastal landscapes. Alongside his talented friends, Beukes fearlessly conquers tumultuous barrels and executes intricate air moves. It’s a celebration of South Africa’s surfing culture and a mustsee for all surf enthusiasts.
South Africa’s National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI) recently hosted its first Energy Conference, aimed at addressing the country’s energy issues and socioeconomic concerns through sustainable energy solutions. The Integrated Resource Plan proposes a diverse energy blend to cater to the nation’s expected growth in electricity demand, including renewable and nonrenewable resources. The shift towards a lowcarbon future and the evaluation of the role of resources like coal, oil, and gas in the transition process is an essential discussion. Furthermore, the Upstream Petroleum Industry could create significant economic upliftment for the country, positioning it as a key player in oil and gas production and supply.
South Africa’s National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has opened applications for funding for the academic year 2024, providing hope for students facing social and economic challenges. The application window will run until the end of January 2024, and NSFAS has introduced a mobile app to simplify the process. The scheme supports 1.6 million students, and the government aims to streamline the funding process and improve the query handling process to enhance students’ experience.
Cape Town’s Jobs Connect platform has revolutionized the job market in South Africa, connecting job seekers and employers through an easytouse online platform accessible at no data charge for MTN and Vodacom users. With over 98,000 individuals registered and many success stories, Jobs Connect acts as a catalyst for ambitions and a guiding light in the intricate process of job hunting, while fulfilling the goal of cutting down the unemployment line. This innovative platform has earned recognition and transformed the way employers and candidates convene, setting a benchmark for other cities to emulate.
On November 22nd, 2023, an important event took place in South Africa’s transportation industry as delegates from the country’s transportation sector gathered at Kenilworth Station in Cape Town to reassess safety protocols. Led by Deputy Minister Lisa Mangcu, the inspection was an initiative to ensure passenger safety and service efficiency. The media’s involvement promoted transparency and accountability, and the event exemplified the government’s dedication to public service and public transport’s crucial role in citizens’ daily lives.
South Africa is working hard to reduce its 15% rate of premature births, advocating for consistent and early antenatal care for expectant mothers. Initiatives such as MomConnect and the SidebySide radio campaign promote health for both mothers and their infants, while guidelines are in place for managing conditions such as hypertension and infections. South Africa has also committed to safeguarding children with vaccinations and exclusive breastfeeding for at least 24 months. It is part of a larger plan targeted at lowering the mortality rate for children under five.
