Recent crime statistics reveal a consistent decrease in murder rates in the Western Cape during the first quarter of the 2023/24 financial year. The period between April and June 2023 saw a 5.5% reduction in murders, following a 14.1% decrease in the previous financial year’s fourth quarter.
The Western Cape High Court’s dismissal of Santaco’s interdict application and approval of the city’s request to make the agreement ending the minibustaxi strike an order of court is a crucial step in ensuring commuter safety in Cape Town. Mayor Geordin HillLewis welcomes this decision and emphasizes the importance of ending taxirelated violence to protect the wellbeing of thousands of commuters.
On the 20th of August, Minister Sihle Zikalala will hold a media briefing to discuss important matters related to the Public Works and Infrastructure Portfolio. The event will cover various topics, highlighting the progress and efforts made in the infrastructure sector.
The Western Cape Government (WCG) and the City of Cape Town have recently released a joint statement expressing their optimism in resolving the minibustaxi strike issue. ### Formalizing Terms
Edgemead, a suburb in Cape Town, faces the challenge of addressing the issue of vagrancy and its connection to criminal activities. The Edgemead Neighbourhood Watch (ENW) has urged residents not to give handouts to vagrants, highlighting the link between their presence and criminal activities in the area. However, it is essential to consider the unintended consequences of this act.
The Disappearances Trevor Andrews and McNeil Fortuin, both 13 years old, went missing in early August in Lambert’s Bay. Trevor was last seen on August 3, informing his mother that he was going to help someone clean their house. When he failed to return home, his mother immediately became worried, as Trevor was always punctual. Similarly, McNeil was last seen by his aunt on August 4, who later reported him missing.
The Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform held the Women Entrepreneur Awards in Qumbu, recognizing the tremendous achievements of women in agriculture. These awards aim to celebrate the determination and resilience of female farmers by offering prize money in various categories, from subsistence to commercial farming.
South African Police Minister General Bheki Cele has released the crime statistics for the first quarter of the 2023/2024 financial year. The report covers April to June 2023 and provides a comprehensive look at the state of crime in South Africa. The data shows a decrease in the murder rate, a decline in various crime categories, and progress in the police’s efforts to protect people and properties.
On the 23rd of August 2023, five municipal ward byelections will be held in South Africa. The Eastern Cape, Gauteng, and North West provinces will witness these elections. The byelections are significant as they involve 14 candidates representing seven political parties and one independent candidate.
Ensuring a safe and healthy work environment is crucial not only for the wellbeing of workers but also for the overall success of businesses and economies. Deputy Minister Boitumelo Moloi’s recent keynote address at the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Conference shed light on the pressing issue of occupational health and safety.
Ms. Nomalungelo Gina, Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, highlighted the significance of the footwear and leather industry in stimulating the economy and creating jobs. She addressed a businesstobusiness networking event at the Coastlands Hotel in Durban, which was jointly organized by the South African Footwear and Leather Export Council (SAFLEC) and the eThekwini Municipality Footwear and Leather Cluster. The conference was attended by manufacturers of footwear, leather goods, and handbags, as well as government representatives, partners, stakeholders, and retailers.
The Importance of Inward Buying and Investment Missions Deputy Minister Fikile Majola stresses the significance of Inward Buying and Investment Missions in building economic relationships that extend beyond borders and create mutually beneficial partnerships. At the Eastern Cape Export Symposium and Exhibition hosted by the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition and the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC), Majola underscores the commitment of the government to transcending borders and fostering an environment where shared prosperity becomes a reality.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has been making significant strides in its ongoing campaign against drugs and crime with its initiative, Operation Restore. This intelligencedriven operation has effectively apprehended numerous suspects and confiscated illicit substances across various areas of the Western Cape.
On the occasion of the commemoration of the Marikana tragedy, the South African government has provided an update on the progress of litigation related to the incident. This update reflects the government’s commitment to achieving justice and healing for all those affected by the tragedy.
Kutama Sinthumule Correctional Facility was struck by a catastrophic fire, which resulted in the displacement of highrisk inmates to other correctional facilities. The facility, which previously accommodated 3,024 inmates, currently houses only 588 inmates with 170 more due to transfer by August 18, 2023. The South African Custodial Management is overseeing the evaluation of the damage and the restoration process to full operation.
The rehabilitation of previously mined areas in Riverlea has become a subject of concern and public attention. In this regard, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) seeks to clarify the situation and shed light on the efforts made to address the issue.