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Cape Town News
The year 2023 was full of surprises, from soaring temperatures to increasing humanitarian crises, unexpected population changes, and exciting sports victories. Over 114 million people were forced to leave their homes due to civil unrest and emergencies, while the Northern Hemisphere experienced its hottest summer ever recorded. South Africa celebrated a thrilling Rugby World Cup win, and India became the world’s most populated country, surpassing China. Fossil fuel consumption hit an alltime high, and Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” set a record by grossing a billion dollars the fastest in Warner Bros.’ history. Novak Djokovic won three more Grand Slam titles, and Facebook was fined a recordbreaking sum for illegally transmitting personal data.
South Africa is facing its worst fire season in a decade due to climate change and human activity. Fires are spreading beyond traditional areas and nearly 97% of regional fires are humancaused. While a damp winter may reduce the risk initially, global warming is expected to increase the frequency of conditions that support extreme wildfire behavior. Preventive measures include fuel reduction burns and constructing firebreaks, while individuals can create safe zones around their properties. This serves as a wakeup call for both the government and individuals to prioritize and invest in sustainable and adaptive strategies to minimize potential damages and safeguard our invaluable environment.
Get ready for an exciting T20 series between India and Australia! With exceptional players and strategic gameplay, the match promises to be a masterclass of cricket. The captaincy question adds to the anticipation, as a possible shift in leadership could bring about a new era for the Indian team. With the unique conditions in Guwahati and the importance of sportsmanship in mind, both teams stand an equal chance of emerging victorious. The series is a celebration of highcaliber cricket and will have implications beyond the match, impacting the World Test Championship and ICC rankings.
Cape Town Spurs lost to Stellenbosch FC in a big match, despite the return of key players. Stellenbosch FC scored an early goal and held on to win 30. The Spurs tried to exploit the flanks and made changes in the second half, but Stellenbosch FC scored two more goals to seal the match. The Spurs will need to focus on regrouping and strategizing to improve their campaign.
The Electoral Commissions Forum of Southern African Development Community (ECFSADC) is celebrating its 25th anniversary, marking a quartercentury of championing democratic administration in the region. Established during a crucial period of political transformation, ECFSADC has played a vital role in deepening democracy through training programs, collaborative efforts, and providing a platform for election management bodies to learn from each other. While many Southern African countries have made remarkable progress towards democratic governance, challenges such as political corruption and strengthening democratic institutions remain hurdles that must be addressed.
In a joint session of the South African Parliament’s two houses, reports were presented on the moral behavior of parliamentarians and the importance of preserving public trust. Grievances were raised against three influential political figures, including Ms. Dipuo Peters, who was found guilty of violating ethical conduct and suspended from parliamentary debates and related functions for one term. The session emphasized the need for transparency and ethical conduct among Parliament members, reminding them of the heavy responsibilities attached to public office.
Wayne Stafford, a creative pioneer in South African fashion and entertainment, has passed away, leaving a void in the hearts of those who knew him. His remarkable career included prestigious events such as SA Fashion Week and Cape Town Fashion Week, as well as establishing a modeling school and local pageants. As a respected mentor and trainer, his legacy will continue to inspire and encourage those in the industry.
Rugby player Juan de Jongh has retired and is now coaching WP’s pipeline teams and athletes at Stellenbosch Academy of Sport. His retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter in his career, as he swaps his rugby boots for a coach’s whistle. Despite leaving the pitch, de Jongh’s legacy will continue to mold the future of rugby through his coaching and influence.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe sees their upcoming Champions League match against Paris SaintGermain as a makeorbreak moment for the season. The team faces elimination in the last 16 if they lose the second leg, despite their impressive 41 win in the first. The four teams in their group are tightly matched, and the pressure is on as both squads prepare for the match. Howe recognizes PSG’s strength but has faith in Newcastle’s organization and tenacity.
2023 was a year of farewells to remarkable individuals who left an indelible mark in their respective fields. From Russell Banks and Jeff Beck to Paco Rabanne, Burt Bacharach, Kenzaburo Oe, Tina Turner, and Victoria Amelina, among many others, each of these icons will be remembered for their unique contributions to the world. The year bore witness to significant losses in the arts, literature, politics, and sports, reminding us of life’s transient nature and the need to cherish every moment we have.
Mark Davids, a Senior Superintendent in Cape Town’s Fleet Management Department, was honored for his three decades of public service at the Corporate Services Directorate of Cape Town’s city administration. Davids has climbed the ranks since starting over 35 years ago as a minor plant operator and is now responsible for mentoring and training the latest generation of mechanical plant operators. He attributes his success to hard work, dedication, adaptability, and openness to feedback, and aims to pass on his knowledge and skills to junior staff.
Steve Komphela, the coach of Moroka Swallows, is known for his unique approach to football that involves initiating the game from the back. Despite criticism, he remains committed to this tactic and insists on wellplanned practice sessions and a united team. His philosophy centers on a player’s comprehension of when to execute their move, honed through rigorous training and experience. Komphela’s unwavering dedication and unconventional strategy have made him a maverick in the world of football, pushing the boundaries of South African football and highlighting the importance of bravery and timing in the sport.
Explore Cape Town’s vibrant art scene with a visit to the top three art galleries: Zeitz MOCAA, Everard Read Gallery, and Whatiftheworld Gallery. Zeitz MOCAA offers a mesmerizing architectural design and showcases contemporary African art, while Everard Read Gallery represents the diverse talent of local artists. Whatiftheworld Gallery features unconventional and thoughtprovoking exhibits, painting the unchained imaginations of artists. These galleries provide a glimpse into fresh and innovative realms of contemporary African art, inviting both art connoisseurs and curious travelers for an invigorating experience.
A new era for the Springboks is on the horizon as a generation transition takes place. Four rising stars are catching the eye of Springbok recruiters, including Cameron Hanekom, Henco van Wyk, Phepsi Buthelezi, and Sacha FeinbergMngomezulu. Each player brings their own unique set of skills and promise, signaling a bright future for South African rugby. These young players are expected to become crucial components of the ongoing journey for the Springboks.
SAFA has addressed rumors that former Bafana Bafana skipper Lucas Radebe is running for the presidency, stating that Jordaan was voted into his third tenure and Radebe’s bid is premature. SAFA clarified that the electoral process is for 2026 with the electorate made up of 52 regions and associate members. SAFA’s current mandate is to deliver football programs with priorities that include managing Schools Competition Academies and training coaches from C License to A License.
“The Hesitant Fiancée,” a painting from 1866 by French artist Auguste Toulmouche, has gone viral on TikTok, showcasing the enduring power of art to connect with modern audiences. The painting depicts a young bride dressed in Victorian attire, with a defiant expression ranging from contempt to fury. Its recent popularity on TikTok has led to comparisons with Phoebe WallerBridge’s “Fleabag,” as both feature female protagonists breaking the fourth wall to confront their struggles. The painting’s newfound fame reflects the timeless ability of art to reflect and transcend human emotions and experiences.
