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Cape Town News
South Africa is gearing up to host the 13th BRICS Health Ministers meeting from August 1st to 4th, 2023, in Durban, KwaZuluNatal. The meeting is significant as it brings together the health ministers from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa to discuss critical issues regarding health system strengthening and achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030.
Cape Town is embarking on a major infrastructure project, the R5.2 billion upgrade of Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works, the second largest infrastructure effort in Western Cape. Scheduled for completion by 2027, this project aims to double the plant’s treatment capacity and improve the environmental health of the Milnerton Lagoon.
The City’s Energy Directorate has reported a troubling increase in incidents of electricity theft, vandalism, and illegal connections in the second quarter of 2023. The South region of the city, particularly Mitchells Plain, has been the most affected, with over 63 incidents reported. However, recent positive changes in several areas reflect the impact of community efforts and newly implemented initiatives.
In the world of celebrities and royalty, friendships can be as fleeting as fame itself. A recent report suggests that an alleged fallout between the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle, and David and Victoria Beckham, has resulted in the Sussexes seeking “retaliation” against the Beckhams.
Kanye West, a wellknown American rapper and entrepreneur, recently had his Twitter account reinstated after being suspended for almost eight months due to a series of offensive tweets. The controversy began in December 2022 when West posted a highly provocative image that combined a swastika with the Star of David. This act violated Twitter’s rules against incitement to violence, leading to the account’s suspension by Elon Musk, the platform’s owner.
The GirlCode Hackathon 2023 is a unique opportunity for female IT students to showcase their technical prowess and innovative skills. This annual event serves as a platform for women in technology to collaborate and network in a supportive learning environment. With this year’s theme, ‘AI4Women,’ participants will leverage artificial intelligence to address realworld problems.
The Orlando Pirates, one of South Africa’s top football clubs, is currently facing a crucial decision regarding their star player, Thembinkosi Lorch. While awaiting sentencing next month, Lorch has been struggling with offfield issues and injuries that have affected his career. Despite these challenges, his talent and resilience have won him the loyalty of the team’s fans.
Premier Alan Winde is hosting the 19th Energy Digicon, which will feature Alderman Dirk Kotze, the Executive Mayor of Mossel Bay, as a special guest. The event is scheduled to take place on Thursday, 3rd August 2023, from 12:00 to 12:45 on a virtual platform called Teams. This event will provide insights into the measures being explored and implemented in the Mossel Bay Municipality to enhance its energy resilience.
Pop sensation Lizzo, who is widely known for her body positivity and selflove advocacy, is at the center of a controversy that threatens her reputation. Recently, The Guardian reported that the singer is facing accusations of sexual harassment and fostering a hostile work environment. Let’s take a closer look at the allegations.
The Springboks have made a bold and strategic move by appointing Bongi Mbonambi as captain for their upcoming match against Argentina. This decision may come as a surprise to some as Lukhanyo Am was expected to take on the role. However, Mbonambi’s selection highlights his essential leadership qualities, particularly in the absence of regular captain Siya Kolisi and standin captains Eben Etzebeth and Duane Vermeulen.
The Western Cape province is facing a persistent problem of criminal activities targeting educational institutions. Despite government efforts to strengthen security measures, schools continue to be victims of vandalism, burglary, and theft. This not only affects the financial stability of the schools but also disrupts the education of students.
The Western Cape Provincial Treasury has launched an initiative to cultivate the talents of young minds and address critical skills gaps in Economics, Accounting, Finance, and Auditing. Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger, spearheads this program and has opened applications for the 2024 academic year.
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has been authorized by President Cyril Ramaphosa to investigate allegations of maladministration in the Office of the Premier in KwaZulu Natal. The investigation will focus on the appointment of a consultant supporting six provincial priority programs, including the Luwamba Wellness Centre Project and Operation Sukuma Sakhe Projects.
The city’s Safety and Security Portfolio Committee recently debated the implementation of newly amended Traffic Bylaw provisions, focusing on the impounding of private vehicles. From July 23 to 30, 2023, the city’s Traffic Service impounded 30 private vehicles under the revised bylaw. Comparatively, 306 public transport vehicles met the same fate during the same period.
The South African Government and business leaders have come together to tackle economic challenges and drive the nation towards growth and job creation. The partnership focuses on key sectors including energy, transport and logistics, and crime and corruption, with the goal of establishing a constitutional democracy, a thriving economy, and an inclusive society.
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has recently announced the appointment of Advocate Ntuthuzelo Vanara as its new Chief Legal Counsel, starting on 1 August 2023. The SIU has placed significant emphasis on implementing business process improvements that generate tangible outcomes, and this appointment aligns with that strategic objective.
