the ultimate mother city guide
Cape Town News
In 2025, South Africans can turn their 15 leave days into amazing adventures by cleverly planning around public holidays and weekends. With smart choices, a holiday can stretch from a few days to a fantastic 38day break! For instance, by using just nine leave days near Easter or Christmas, families can enjoy long, joyful vacations filled with exploration and relaxation. Whether wandering through Cape Town’s beauty, experiencing the thrill of Kruger National Park, or even venturing to faroff lands, planning ahead opens doors to unforgettable memories and happy moments. So, let’s embrace the art of leave planning and celebrate life with every trip!
In the lively KwaZuluNatal region of South Africa, the Portfolio Committee on Human Settlements is on a mission to improve housing for everyone. With a visit planned for October 2024, they will check how well housing policies are working and listen to communities affected by issues like flooding. Led by Chairperson Nocks Seabi, the committee believes that everyone deserves a safe home, emphasizing the importance of fair housing and helping people own their properties. By connecting with community voices and addressing challenges, they aim to bring hope and dignity to all residents, making sure that everyone has a place to call home.
Gasant Abarder’s journey takes us on an emotional ride, exploring what home and identity really mean. His travels show the stark differences between Turkey and South Africa, revealing how nationalism can create division and fear in one place, while fostering freedom and community in another. Despite the challenges he faced, Abarder feels a deep connection to Cape Town, where the beauty of Table Mountain reminds him of the joys of belonging. His story teaches us to appreciate our homes while being hopeful and critical about the world around us. Ultimately, it’s about finding pride in who we are and where we come from.
In South Africa, healthcare costs are climbing rapidly, creating a tough situation for many, especially elderly citizens. Major medical aid providers, like Discovery and Bonitas, plan significant hikes in contributions for 2025, adding financial pressure to those already struggling. While the economy shows signs of growth, such as rising salaries, it’s not keeping up with the soaring medical expenses. This leaves many people facing hard choices about their healthcare options. As the nation moves forward, finding a way to make healthcare affordable for everyone is more important than ever.
Garlic farming in South Africa is a tough journey filled with highs and lows. Farmers face rising costs, competition from imported garlic, and changing tastes from shoppers. But there is a silver lining! With a focus on growing fresh, local garlic and using new farming techniques, there’s hope for a brighter future. By working together and embracing new ideas, South African garlic could become a cherished favorite, both at home and overseas.
The Africa Health Congress 2024 is a big event happening in Cape Town from October 22 to 24, bringing together healthcare workers from all over Africa. This gathering is all about sharing new ideas and tackling challenges in healthcare, like the need for more local medicine and medical device production. With support from leaders like Western Cape’s Minister of Health, the congress aims to spark innovation and collaboration for a healthier future. Cape Town, with its beautiful scenery, serves as a perfect place for this exciting exchange of knowledge that can help improve healthcare for everyone in Africa.
Cape Town is buzzing with Halloween fun this season! On October 31st, head to Kirstenbosch Garden for a spooky movie night featuring “The Shining,” where you can munch on tasty snacks under the stars. The next night, families can enjoy “Hotel Transylvania” at Central Park, complete with trickortreating and face painting. With delicious food, thrilling films, and magical moments, these events promise to make Halloween extra special! Don’t miss out on this enchanting experience!
Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has a bright vision for the future of cities, where young people lead the way in making urban spaces better. She believes that with new ideas and teamwork, youth can tackle big problems like climate change and housing shortages. In her recent speech for World Habitat Day, she called for inclusive policies that bring everyone together, especially in South Africa where many are young. Kubayi’s plan also encourages research and collaboration, inviting students to help create smart solutions for our cities and rural areas alike. Her message is clear: by working together and thinking creatively, we can build a better future for all.
The Devonbosch experience transforms city living into a vibrant, communityfocused lifestyle. Nestled in the stunning Western Cape, it blends homes, shops, and green spaces to create a lively atmosphere where people connect and thrive. With diverse dining options, gyms, and fun outdoor trails, residents enjoy wellness and adventure right at their doorstep. Devonbosch also prioritizes health and sustainability, featuring ecofriendly designs and facilities for all ages. It’s a place where life, work, and fun come together, making modern living joyful and connected.
South Africa is boldly stepping into the future with artificial intelligence (AI) to improve its economy and society. The country has set up important institutions like the AI Institute and the Centre for Artificial Intelligence Research that focus on using AI to solve local problems and drive innovation. At the recent SATNAC conference, leaders emphasized the need for ethical AI that respects people’s rights and promotes inclusivity. With a spirit of teamwork and creativity, South Africa is ready to harness AI’s power, ensuring that it benefits everyone as they build a brighter, techdriven future together.
On October 5th, 2023, Brandon Janeka became a hero when he bravely rescued a woman from drowning at Cape Town’s Table View coastline. Despite the beautiful waves, the ocean hides dangerous rip currents that can sweep people away, making safety a top priority for beachgoers. Brandon’s quick actions not only saved a life but also showcased the spirit of courage that lives within the community. As summer approaches, Cape Town prepares to keep its beaches safe with lifeguards ready to help everyone enjoy the sun and sand responsibly. Brandon’s story reminds us all of the power of bravery and the importance of looking out for one another.
Cape Town is grappling with serious challenges in law enforcement, especially with traffic violations. Recently, police arrested 285 people for ignoring traffic laws, showing a troubling pattern where many drivers think they can break the rules without consequences. The city’s leaders, like Alderman JP Smith, worry that some drivers treat safety laws as optional, risking lives on the road. Beyond traffic issues, law enforcement is busy tackling various crimes, highlighting the ongoing struggle between community safety and individual responsibility. As the city works to improve compliance and engage its citizens, the hope is for a safer, more respectful environment for everyone.
In the Northern Cape of South Africa, the government is helping small businesses grow and thrive. The Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) is connecting with local entrepreneurs by providing training, funding, and support. This initiative will bring life back to the economy in this beautiful region, known for its rich culture and stunning landscapes. The upcoming visit from the Portfolio Committee will allow them to see firsthand how small businesses, from farms to creative studios, are shaping a brighter future for their communities. Through collaboration and understanding, they aim to empower these businesses, ensuring their success contributes to a stronger economy for all.
British Airways is making waves in the skies by doubling its Airbus A380 flights to Johannesburg and adding more to Cape Town! Starting in June, travelers will enjoy 30% more seats to Johannesburg, with room for more passengers in all classes, especially business. Cape Town will also see an increase in flights as the airline caters to the busy summer season. This exciting expansion shows British Airways is committed to connecting people and places, making travel smoother and more comfortable than ever!
The Africa Peace and Security Dialogue is an important event where leaders and thinkers come together to find ways to solve Africa’s problems and build peace. At its first meeting in the beautiful Magaliesburg, South Africa, the focus was on tackling conflicts and promoting security across the continent. With rising tensions and ongoing violence, the dialogue aimed to inspire action and unity among African nations. Minister Ronald Lamola emphasized the need for collaboration to face the challenges headon, echoing the dreams of past leaders who envisioned a brighter future for Africa. This gathering is just the beginning of a journey towards lasting peace and stability.
The Western Cape educators shone brightly at the 2023 National Teaching Awards, winning two awards and placing in the top three in others. Derek Swart received the Kader Asmal Lifetime Achievement Award for his incredible leadership at Paarl Boys’ High School, while Ethon Leigh Alexander was celebrated for his excellence in teaching mathematics. The awards, held to honor teachers on World Teachers’ Day, showcased the hard work and dedication of these educators, who strive to provide quality education and inspire their students every day. Their achievements remind us how important teachers are in shaping the future of young minds in South Africa.
