the ultimate mother city guide
Cape Town News
South Africa’s hosting of the 11th G20 Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit is a powerful moment, showing its leadership in bringing countries together to tackle big issues like equality, climate change, and fair governance. Against the beautiful backdrop of Kleinmond and Cape Town, parliament leaders from around the world will meet to share ideas and work on real laws that help people everywhere. The summit also shines a light on the voices of women and young leaders, making sure their hopes and challenges shape global action. South Africa’s rich history of struggle and hope inspires this gathering to push for a fairer, stronger world through teamwork and open talks.
Earth and Environmental Sciences in Africa are driving powerful change by focusing on local research and teamwork to fight climate change, pollution, and loss of wildlife. In Durban, scientists and leaders gathered to urge African universities to lead their own research and create solutions that fit the continent’s unique challenges. Despite tough environmental problems like drought and heatwaves, African communities and researchers are using both new ideas and traditional knowledge to adapt and grow stronger. South Africa is leading with strong science programs and partnerships that connect cities, rural areas, and global experts. Together, Africa is building hope and strength for a healthier, more resilient future.
Mango Airlines began in 2006 as a bright hope for cheap flights in South Africa, flying its bright orange planes and making travel easier for many people. But troubles at its parent company, rising costs, tough competition, and the COVID19 pandemic hit Mango hard. Despite efforts to save it, the airline closed in 2025, showing how hard it is for staterun airlines to survive without strong support and smart changes. Mango’s story reminds us that hope and hard work can take flight, but only if the winds of change blow just right.
South Africa’s hopes in the African Nations Championship were crushed in a dramatic match in Kampala. Leading 31 late in the game, they watched in shock as Uganda scored two stoppagetime penalties, with VAR decisions playing a key role, to snatch a 33 draw. The battle was fierce, filled with skill and spirit, but South Africa’s dream ended in heartbreak. Despite the loss, their fight and flashes of brilliance showed the deep passion that football sparks across Africa.
Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet, promises to bring fast and affordable internet to South Africa’s rural and underserved areas, helping bridge the digital divide. However, strict local rules, especially about ownership by historically disadvantaged groups, make it tricky for Starlink to launch smoothly. The company wants more flexible ways to support South Africa’s empowerment goals, like investing in education and local businesses, rather than just handing over shares. How the government balances these rules and innovation will shape South Africa’s digital future, with big effects on access, opportunity, and growth across the country.
Saving money in South Africa is very hard because prices for food, electricity, and transport keep going up, and many people live day to day just trying to survive. Families often juggle tight budgets, choosing basic needs over treats, and saving feels like a faroff dream. To cope, people take extra jobs, share resources, and find clever ways to stretch their money, but real savings remain rare. Despite these struggles, South Africans show strong spirit and hope, supporting each other through tough times.
Padel and cryptocurrency are joining forces to create a fresh, exciting culture in South Africa. At sunny courts in Johannesburg, people from all walks of life are discovering the fun of padel while learning about crypto in friendly, welcoming events. The “Serve Your Future” campaign mixes sport and technology, showing that anyone can join in, whether they’re new to the game or curious about digital money. Together, they are building a community where fitness, friendship, and financial freedom grow side by side. This vibrant movement invites everyone to play, learn, and dream bigger for tomorrow.
Parliamentary oversight in South Africa plays a powerful role in making sure social services like healthcare and education reach everyone fairly. Through open meetings and public dialogue, committees hold the government accountable and bring real issues like school safety, healthcare access, and gender justice into the spotlight. Leaders in Parliament work closely with communities, fighting injustice and pushing for laws that protect people’s rights. By blending tradition with modern technology, they keep democracy alive and make sure citizens’ voices shape the future. This ongoing commitment helps build a stronger, fairer South Africa for all.
South African journalists gathered in Cape Town to protest the killing of over 190 media workers in Gaza since October 2023. They stood together to defend press freedom and demand justice for those targeted simply for reporting the truth. Drawing on South Africa’s history of fighting oppression, the protest called out unethical media practices and showed deep solidarity with Palestinian journalists facing violence. Their voices rose by the sea, a powerful reminder that telling the truth is never a crime, even in the darkest times.
The Savanna is a vibrant South Africaninspired store in the UK, started by Lisa Gardshol with a dream to bring authentic flavors and a sense of community to South African expats and curious locals. From a small shop in Raynes Park, it grew through hard work, smart use of technology, and a close connection to customers. When challenges like the 2008 crisis and COVID19 hit, The Savanna adapted quickly, launching online sales and controlling its supply chain. More than a shop, it’s a lively place where culture, taste, and friendship come together, showing how passion and smart thinking can change retail for the better.
In South African prisons, inmates run bakeries that bake thousands of affordable loaves each day, saving millions of rand and changing prison life. This handson work teaches baking skills, builds confidence, and gives prisoners a sense of hope and purpose. Instead of just punishment, these bakeries help turn prisons into places of growth and new chances. Each loaf is more than bread it’s a symbol of renewal and a brighter future.
South Africa is trapped in a driver’s licence nightmare caused by an old, breaking machine that prints the cards too slowly. Every day, thousands of drivers wait in long, twisting lines, stuck and frustrated as their expired licences hold up their lives. Efforts to fix the problem have stumbled over costly mistakes and slow bureaucracy, leaving over half a million people caught in limbo. This crisis shows how broken systems can deeply affect ordinary lives, yet amid the chaos, South Africans keep finding ways to cope and hope for change.
The Bhisho Passing Out Parade was a powerful day filled with pride and promise as 849 recruits became police officers, ready to serve and protect South Africa. The ceremony honored the sacrifices of those who came before and reminded everyone that wearing the uniform means a serious duty to the community and human rights. Acting Minister Firoz Cachalia urged the new officers to act with courage, honesty, and respect, even when it’s hard, to build trust and safety in a country facing tough challenges. This event marked not just a career milestone, but a heartfelt commitment to making South Africa safer and fairer for all.
The SAPS passing out parade in Mthatha was a proud and hopeful moment, celebrating new police officers ready to serve their communities with honor and care. Deputy Minister Cassel Mathale reminded everyone that wearing the uniform means carrying a big responsibility to protect people and uphold justice. The parade honored the hard work of the recruits, the support of their families, and the challenges police face every day. As these new constables begin their journey, they carry the trust of the nation and a promise to build stronger, safer communities.
The SAPS Academy Passing Out Parade is a powerful ceremony where new police officers officially become protectors of the people, taking a pledge to serve with honesty, respect, and courage. It honors their readiness to face tough challenges like corruption and violence while reminding them of the deep trust communities place in them. With proud families and leaders watching, the event shines as a symbol of hope, duty, and a shared promise to build a safer, fairer South Africa.
At the 45th SADC Summit in Madagascar, President Ramaphosa thanked all leaders for their commitment to unity and progress in Southern Africa. He praised Madagascar for hosting and celebrated outgoing leaders for their hard work in boosting the region’s economy, food security, and peace. Ramaphosa highlighted key goals like growing industries, improving agriculture, and embracing clean energy as steps toward a stronger future. His message was clear: Southern Africa’s strength comes from working together with shared vision and determination.
