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Cape Town News
Tiffindell Ski Resort in Southern Drakensberg, South Africa, has permanently closed due to Covid19 and unpredictable snowfall, leaving the region with just one ski resort. Tiffindell was a gem for winter sports enthusiasts, offering skiing and snowboarding during the winter months, and had the potential to evolve into a yearround destination. Despite its closure, Tiffindell will be remembered for providing a unique winter experience in a country where snow was rare, and as a blueprint for future winter resorts.
Comedy legend Eddie Murphy is back to voice his iconic role in both Shrek 5 and a spinoff film centered on Donkey, confirming rumors that have been circulating since 2023. Murphy has already begun recording the first act of Shrek 5 and plans to complete it in 2021, with the film set to release in 2025. The Shrek franchise has an enduring place in animation history, known for its wit, emotional richness, and memorable characters, and Murphy’s return to the beloved series is sure to excite fans worldwide.
A robbery attempt at a local shop in Nyanga resulted in a 19yearold man losing his life and three others left battling for survival. The incident highlights the random and unfathomable nature of violence in the community and the fatal consequences of extortion. Law enforcement faces the challenge of community reluctance to share information. Collaboration between the community and law enforcement is crucial to interrupt the vicious cycle of violence and fear.
The Disaster Risk Management Centre (DRMC) runs an annual resilience programme focused on disaster risk reduction, specifically tailored to cater to women and girls. The programme covers topics related to disaster management such as early warning systems, neighbourhood resilience evaluations, and waste management. The syllabus also includes practical skills such as selfdefense, basic firefighting techniques, and first aid. The programme is designed to foster disaster preparedness at home and in the community through experiential learning beyond the classroom. The goal is for these newly minted disaster risk reduction ambassadors to share their knowledge and raise awareness about the critical importance of resilience and preparedness in their communities.
South African National Parks is leading the way in digitalization by introducing an online purchasing system for the My Activity Permit of Table Mountain National Park, making it easier for visitors to engage in specialized activities. The park has also gone cashless at two major entry points, promoting a safer and more efficient mode of handling payments. This innovative step signifies a commitment to sustainable practices and sets a standard for national parks around the world. The fusion of nature and technology at Table Mountain National Park creates a unique and progressive recreational experience, enhancing the park’s appeal for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.
South Africa’s Department of Transport has faced obstacles in securing service providers for the launch of the 2024 driver’s license cards, causing delays and frustration among citizens. The procurement process has been slow and lacking transparency, leading to public distrust. Despite reassurances from the Transport Minister, the project remains mired in controversy and technical intricacies. The department has received offers from five companies and has new printing machinery, but contradictory information and inconsistencies have left the public uncertain about when the cards will be available.
South Africa’s politics is changing as the ANC’s support declines and a Government of National Unity (GNU) is formed with the DA and other political groups. However, tension between the ANC and DA is growing, as the DA demands control over crucial government departments and the termination of contracts of director generals. This has led to criticism from the ANC and a potentially rocky road for political transition. The path forward requires tolerance, accommodation, and respect for the country’s Constitution to establish a truly inclusive, efficient, and representative GNU.
Cape Town’s Comprehensive Infrastructure Development Plan is a groundbreaking initiative that will transform the city with a massive investment of R39.5 billion towards infrastructure development. The project is estimated to generate 130,000 constructionrelated jobs over three years, benefitting lowerincome households and rectifying socioeconomic disparities. Cape Town’s innovative funding approach blends financing from its balance sheet and local and international markets, positioning the city at the forefront of urban development initiatives in South Africa.
The University of Cape Town’s Council has taken a bold stand in the Gaza conflict by adopting two resolutions that showcase their commitment to peace and justice. The first resolution calls for an immediate ceasefire and the protection of academic freedom, while the second prohibits UCT academics from associating with any research group or network linked to the Israeli military. These resolutions bring attention to the devastating effects of conflict on education and the importance of rebuilding intellectual capital. The university’s actions hold significant importance in a world where violence often drowns out the voices of reason, serving as a beacon of hope for peace.
The tragic event of the Dickason Family Incident in New Zealand resulted in the loss of three young children. Lauren Anne Dickason, the mother, was diagnosed with major depressive disorder and will be committed to a mental health institution until she attains stability, after which she will serve an 18year sentence in a correctional facility. Her case highlights the need for a balance in the justice system between protecting society and rehabilitating those with mental health disorders. The incident sparked a paradigm shift in forensic law towards rehabilitationfocused measures.
Media24, a major media conglomerate in South Africa, has shut down five of its newspapers due to a decline in circulation and advertisement revenues, reflecting the impact of the digital revolution on traditional print media. This move is expected to cause significant job losses and highlights the sociocultural implications of the shift to digital media, which could leave out a significant number of South Africans who don’t have access to electronic media due to technical or economic barriers. The future of print media in South Africa remains a pressing topic of conversation, as the switch carries a considerable human cost that shouldn’t be neglected.
Kaizer Chiefs, a renowned football club in South Africa, is undergoing significant changes as they prepare for a new season. The team is reshaping its identity and enhancing its onfield performance, including the departure of four senior players and an evaluation of the current squad. The club’s strategic moves aim to establish a legacy and leave a lasting impression on football history. As anticipation builds for the new season, fans eagerly await the team’s strategic assortment of talents and potential to compete effectively against formidable opponents.
Netflix is considering launching a free version of its services in select international markets, aimed at expanding viewership in Asia and Europe and addressing the challenge of expanding its advertising portfolio. The idea was previously tested in Kenya in 2023. The move could bridge the gap with potential subscribers who find the subscription fee costly and offer an accessible entry point, while also expanding Netflix’s advertising landscape. Netflix’s rapid adaptability to changing market conditions, reflected in its introduction of an adsupported tier, suggests the potential for another landmark in the company’s trajectory.
The City of Cape Town is determined to seek justice for Wendy Kloppers’ assassination, while also working to prevent further extortionist threats. Despite the temporary halt of the Symphony Way housing project, the City is committed to continuing with the project this year, with beneficiary representatives and the Project Engagement Committee playing an active role. To empower citizens to join the fight against extortion, the City has set up a 24hour hotline and reward system. The community has rallied together in solidarity, and the City’s proactive steps have created a renewed sense of hope for a stronger and safer community.
Period poverty is a major issue affecting over 80% of South African schoolgirls, who lack access to sanitary products and proper menstrual hygiene education. The IMenstruate Movement is campaigning for free menstrual hygiene products to combat this problem. The recent Exesheni Exhibition in Franschhoek shed light on the severity of the situation, with photographs of makeshift solutions like rags, cardboard, and toilet paper. The IMenstruate Movement plans to lobby President Cyril Ramaphosa for change and spread awareness in rural communities.
Cape Town is currently undergoing a 72hour maintenance operation to ensure the sound condition of the city’s pipe infrastructure for the future. The operation is a clear demonstration of the city’s unwavering attention to preventive maintenance and care, with countless workers collaborating to ensure its success. The city has maintained open lines of communication through social media platforms, and the operation has stirred a wave of community support. Despite ongoing work, the city continues to prioritize safety and public health, with strict testing of water supplied from its tankers.
