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Cape Town News
John Steenhuisen’s lack of formal education has been a subject of criticism in South African politics, but it has not hindered his rise to the leadership of the Democratic Alliance. Steenhuisen’s political path is marked by an unflagging commitment to public service rather than academic accomplishments. His sharp comebacks to critics demonstrate his belief that moral uprightness should be the key measure of public service. Steenhuisen’s career serves as a testament to the idea that success in politics is not always linked to conventional educational routes.
Mandela Day, celebrated on July 18th, honors Nelson Mandela’s dedication to social justice and encourages individuals to take action against poverty and inequality. The day is marked by community initiatives and the power of art to foster positive change. The Legacy Mural Initiative in Mitchells Plain and the Sinethemba Community Project in Khayelitsha are examples of communitybased initiatives that use art and unity to combat socioeconomic obstacles and promote community development. These initiatives demonstrate the potential of collaborative efforts to yield positive change and highlight the pivotal role that every individual can play in shaping their community.
Escape the winter blues in Cape Town with a range of exciting events. From tribute concerts to Abba and the Beatles, to a celebration of vineyards at the Wild Fig Winter Wine Festival, there is something for everyone. Swing and 80s parties are also on offer, as well as a Shakespearean classic revisited. These events promise warmth, happiness, and cultural immersion during the chilly winter season.
The attempted murder of Coreth Naudé, a SARS advocate investigating businesswoman Shauwn Mkhize’s unpaid taxes, has sparked media attention and speculation. Mkhize, known as “MaMkhize,” has been accused of owing R37 million in taxes and was recently ordered to remit R12 million and have 13 of her luxury vehicles confiscated by SARS. This ongoing saga highlights the complex interplay between power, tax evasion, and the quest for justice.
Police in George intercepted a drug shipment worth R340,000, arresting a 55yearold Tanzanian man for drug trafficking. The police squad found 979 grams of tik hidden under the passenger seat of a blue Lexus with Gauteng Province license plates. This successful operation showcases the tireless efforts of law enforcement agencies in the ceaseless battle against drugs.
The town of Citrusdal in the Western Cape, known for its toptier citrus fruits, has been hit hard by severe weather causing the recurrent destruction of road access, plunging the town into isolation. The floods have caused significant financial implications, with citrus growers incurring damages surpassing R430 million the previous year. The town is currently holding its breath in anticipation of aid and restoration of road connectivity, as the citrus industry forms the community’s backbone and is a significant driver of employment and economic growth in the area.
The South African property market and economy have been dealt a blow with the Reserve Bank’s decision to keep the repo rate at 8.25%, causing frustration and disappointment among industry figures. The high interest rate, combined with rising living costs and a stagnant economy, is putting pressure on everyday South Africans, particularly middleclass homeowners. Despite this, there is hope for the future, with anticipated interest rate cuts and the Government of National Unity’s potential to drive economic growth. Homebuyers may find themselves on the brink of a golden opportunity amid the current challenges.
The Hasher Family Estate is launching its Family & Fine Wine Feast Series, featuring a range of events that combine family entertainment, delicious food, and fine wine. Led by coowner Frederik and winemaker Natasha Williams, each event has a unique theme, including exploring the Fynbos ecosystem and seasonal ingredient foraging. Chef Ricky Broekhoven provides refined and familyfriendly dining, making this a fantastic experience for all ages. Space is limited, so book now to celebrate life’s simple pleasures in the stunning HemelenAarde Valley.
Finding sleep during long flights can be difficult, but sleep expert James Leinhardt offers practical advice on how to achieve it. Leinhardt’s tips revolve around three essential cornerstones: bodyweight distribution, neck support, and simulating a mattress. By reclining the seat to disperse body weight, using a selfmade neck support, and bringing a lumbar cushion to fill the gap between the back and seat, travelers can transform an airplane seat into a sleepfriendly environment. Leinhardt’s guidance promotes comfort and reinforces the belief that restful sleep is achievable even thousands of feet above the ground.
In Cape Town, a 28yearold woman hailed an Uber after work but was met with horror when the driver pulled out a gun and demanded money. In a moment of bravery, she refused to hand over her house keys and fought back with a knuckle duster, managing to escape the moving car and seek medical help. The driver was caught, but the incident caused financial setbacks for the woman, who is seeking compensation from Uber and AIG. Her resilience and courage have inspired hope for justice to prevail.
Planet Fitness Cavendish in Cape Town is a modern fitness club with stateoftheart technology and facilities dedicated to wellness. It offers an exclusive 4ORCE functional fitness program and new workout machines that are designed to shape the perfect derriere. With its prime location, extended operating hours, and exceptional customer service, Planet Fitness Cavendish is not just a gym, but a sanctuary for fitness enthusiasts. The gym has plans to expand and open 25 additional clubs in the next five years, providing the same exceptional customer service and worldclass facilities.
The South African government is committed to providing housing for its citizens and has allocated a substantial part of its budget to upgrading informal settlements and providing access to basic amenities. Despite fiscal issues and budget reductions, the government is focusing on social and affordable housing and launched initiatives to empower vulnerable groups and small businesses. The government is also aiming to create spatially integrated human settlements, improve disaster and emergency housing, and expedite the issuance of title deeds to deserving beneficiaries.
South African Revenue Service (SARS) is taking firm action to combat tax evasion by international online retailers like Shein and Temu, who have been exploiting tax gaps to provide competitive pricing. SARS is revamping its tax rules and administrative procedures to extract taxes more efficiently from these platforms, and packages will be taxed at 45% plus VAT, the same percentage as local clothing retailers. SARS aims to forge a balanced marketplace for all retailers by plugging these tax gaps and conveying a potent message to online retailers that the era of tax loophole exploitation is coming to an end.
Gayton McKenzie, the Minister of Sports, Art, and Culture, recently revealed in his book “The Uncomfortable Truth” that he fathered eight children with six different women during his selfproclaimed “player days.” Despite the scandalous nature of his personal life, McKenzie denies being an absentee father and uses his book as a pathway to redemption, offering advice for women and his three daughters. McKenzie’s past relationships, including his marriage to attorney Nicolette Joubert and his current single status, are also explored. McKenzie’s journey serves as a testament to personal transformation and the potential for growth and redemption.
South Africa’s National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is currently embroiled in a legal battle over a contentious contract with eZaga, Coinvest Africa, Tenet Technology, and Norraco Corporation, which was aimed at disbursing payments to university and TVET college students. The contract’s termination was met with an urgent court application from eZaga, which secured a favorable ruling on July 15th due to irregularities in the tender award process. The situation remains complex, impacting the students who depend on the aid.
Cape Town is buzzing with excitement as the 2024 Opening of Parliament Address approaches. The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) has a successful history of managing major events in the city, with security measures in place, including increased roadblocks and police visibility patrols. The public is urged to uphold the law, with protests within the legal framework tolerated, and any threats or disruptions dealt with sternly. The city stands ready for a safe and secure event, leaving another mark on the country’s political landscape.
