the ultimate mother city guide
Cape Town News
This week, South Africa’s National Council of Provinces (NCOP) is gearing up for a packed schedule of legislative activities, including policy debates, budget votes, and committee meetings on topics ranging from economic development to agriculture. The week will conclude with a constituency period, during which members of parliament will engage with the public. Additionally, a joint committee of Parliament will review the Constitution, highlighting the country’s commitment to continuous improvement and evolution in legislation.
The match highlighted the resilience and growth of young players and provided valuable lessons for the teams involved. In the unpredictable world of rugby, spectators are kept on the edge of their seats, especially during a heated encounter like the one between the DHL Western Province and Vodacom Bulls at the Loftus Versfeld stadium during a sunny weekend in 2024. The match was a highscoring event with a total of 11 tries, the suspense unfolding in a manner as captivating as the match itself.
Get ready to be dazzled by the highly acclaimed Tony Awardwinning musical, “Dear Evan Hansen,” as it comes to Artscape from February 12 to March 9, 2025. The show is a captivating journey of selfrealization and bonding, exploring themes of mental health, isolation, and the human longing for companionship. With an exceptional creative team and a story that will leave you yearning for more, don’t miss your chance to experience this transformative musical journey. Tickets are available on the Showtime website.
BoKaap, a vibrant and colorful neighborhood in Cape Town, South Africa, is facing the threat of an upcoming sixstorey development. Though the proposed height of the building has been downsized, the BoKaap Civic and Ratepayers Association is still strongly opposed to the project, fearing that it would disrupt the spiritual, social, and architectural harmony of the area and destroy its unique cultural identity. The ongoing dialogue between the developers, the BKCRA, and the local inhabitants highlights the need for balanced urban planning that respects and safeguards the histories and heritages that give cities their unique identities.
South African authorities have launched a major crackdown on illegal mining with the “Vala Umgodi” operation, resulting in the arrest of 22 individuals suspected of engaging in unlicensed mining activities and breaking immigration regulations. The operation involves a multidisciplinary team composed of various entities, including the South African National Defence Force, and highlights South Africa’s continued efforts to combat illegal mining. The operation also included confiscation of mining tools and maintaining law and order during major events in the Kimberley region.
Traversing Africa via public transport is a thrilling adventure that requires patience and flexibility. It’s an immersive way to understand the continent’s people, cultures, and landscapes while experiencing its unpredictable nature. Though there may be challenges, the journey offers unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for the unexpected. It’s an exploration of new territories and of oneself, ultimately leaving travelers with a passion for the path less trodden.
The Paradigm in Cape Town is a revolutionary development that redefines luxury living. With impressive facilities such as a restaurant, gym, spa, and electric carsharing service, The Paradigm sets a new benchmark for domestic properties in the city. The unique color palettes of each flat, toptier features, and mesmerizing city views make this development a golden investment opportunity. With a R100,000 launch discount available on every purchase, The Paradigm represents a bold stride towards the future of metropolitan living.
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is set to receive a R50 billion funding boost from the country’s treasury, which will significantly increase the payout for SASSA beneficiaries. The funding infusion also has the potential to turn the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant into a Universal Basic Income Grant (BIG) by 2026, which could dramatically transform the country’s social welfare system. The 2024 Appropriation Bill has been approved by the National Assembly, providing access to funds from the National Revenue Fund from 2025 onwards, with the proposed increase in spending on social welfare expected to surge from R283 billion to R331 billion by 2026.
Bloubergstrand is a beautiful coastal destination in Cape Town with stunning views of Table Mountain and Robben Island, topgrade infrastructure, and a variety of transport services. It offers an eclectic mix of suburbs, retail therapy, familyfriendly living, topnotch education and healthcare, and is a promising venue for property investment. With its luxurious living options and diverse range of buyers, Bloubergstrand is a muchloved coastal gem in Cape Town’s heart.
The Western Cape in South Africa is home to two World Heritage Sites, the Diepkloof Rock Shelter and the Pinnacle Point Site Complex, crucial in understanding modern human evolution. These sites offer a glimpse into our shared past, representing our collective historical memory and providing fundamental insights into the emergence of modern human behavior. The preservation of these sites is a commitment to safeguarding our shared ancestry and preserving our collective historical memory.
In Cape Town, heavy rainfall has caused a surge in dam levels but also led to significant sewer overflows due to excessive stormwater infiltration into pipelines. The city’s Water Pollution Control team is inspecting areas and partnering with external stakeholders to ensure compliance with water bylaws. Residents are encouraged to participate by reporting illegal stormwatertosewer connections and refraining from disposing of cooking oils or fats in the kitchen sink. The city is implementing proactive measures to mitigate the problem and create a more sustainable urban water management system.
Citrusdal, a beautiful town in South Africa’s Western Cape, has been hit by severe flooding, blocking access and causing significant infrastructure damage. However, the community and government are working tirelessly to restore access and mitigate future risks. The Western Cape Department of Infrastructure is implementing an extensive repair plan, with some routes already reopened. The community is urged to exercise patience and caution while progress is made, and the restoration of Citrusdal serves as a testament to the community’s resilience.
Students at a Cape Town high school were involved in a disturbing mock auction that resembled scenes from slavery. The incident, filmed and circulated on social media, triggered investigations by school officials and widespread indignation. A spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department confirmed that the students’ actions were not in line with the values and principles of the department or the school. The incident highlights the need for ongoing dialogues about racial equality, mutual respect, and education on the lasting effects of historical crimes such as slavery.
South African and Botswana nationals now need to obtain a visa before travelling to Ireland, following the Irish Department of Justice’s appointment of VFS Global as its official partner for travellers from these two countries. The decision was made in response to a surge in International Protection applications from South African and Botswana nationals, and is aimed at aligning Ireland more closely with the Schengen Area. The move is part of a broader trend of countries modifying their immigration policies to balance security considerations, economic requirements, and aspirations to maintain an opendoor policy.
South Africa’s Bureau of Standards has updated regulations for electric fences, with new rules requiring the use of premiumgrade materials, regular inspection schedules and enhanced testing methods after installation. The SANS 10222–3: 2023 Edition 5.1 requirements also include revised standards for warning sign placement and joint installation. Failure to comply with the standards can result in the denial of insurance claims, while consumers can request the Electric Fence System Installer number from installers and report improper conduct to the Department of Labour.
The homelessness crisis in Cape Town’s CBD is becoming increasingly urgent, with hundreds of homeless individuals facing eviction. The city’s proposed solution, the Safe Spaces Initiative, provides shelter, meals, and vocational training to homeless individuals and is funded by the city. While some support the initiative as a way to preserve the dignity of the destitute, others argue for more comprehensive solutions, such as repurposing vacant buildings for permanent housing and addressing health and employment issues. The decision of how to tackle this issue has farreaching implications, making it a critical moment for the city.
