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Cape Town News
Cape Town’s U19 Netball Tournament Series is a competition that also promotes youth development and community enrichment. It is part of the Netball World Cup Legacy Programme and aims to cultivate leadership, teamwork, and selfconfidence while having fun. The tournament series will kick off on May 25, 2024, and reach its climax on Women’s Day, August 9, 2024, with teams from various locations in Cape Town competing for a chance to win the much soughtafter trophy. The tournament serves as a celebration of community and aims to uplift netball and provide opportunities for the youth to participate in the sport.
Cape Town’s Cape Winelands Airport is undergoing a massive $460 million expansion, with plans to extend a runway to 3,500m and become the most ecofriendly airport in the world. The project is expected to create 60,000 new jobs and serve as a backup for Cape Town International during emergencies, reducing carbon emissions and conserving fuel. The expansion is set to transform Cape Town’s skyline, bringing economic growth and environmental responsibility to the forefront.
Mexico City and Bogota are facing an ecological crisis called ‘Zero Hour’ due to an El Niñoinduced drought that is quickly draining their water reserves. Both cities could hit ‘Zero Hour’ by June unless drastic reductions in water usage are made. Cape Town’s success in managing a similar crisis serves as a glimmer of hope, but the responsibility to act decisively and responsibly lies with both city officials and residents. The situation is being exacerbated by a ‘heat dome’ created by El Niño, and potential solutions include investing in desalination plants and utilizing underground aquifers.
The WhoSpeaksForUs movement in Cape Town is a campaign organized by SWEAT to advocate for the decriminalization of sex work and equal representation for marginalized communities in politics. Last Thursday, over 50 sex workers and civil rights champions organized a protest in front of Parliament to demand their voices be heard. With the upcoming elections, there is concern among sex workers about whether the political leaders will champion their cause, and various advocacy groups have joined together to fight for equal rights and representation. The movement serves as a desperate cry for equality and a demand for political leadership that mirrors the complex society it serves.
Experience the serene and sustainable Gonana Collection in the peaceful fishing village of Paternoster, where each of the seven properties is powered by solar energy and offers a warm embrace of the idyllic environment. Discover a tapestry of sustainability woven from unrefined local materials and collaboration with local craftsmen. Embrace the Gonana lifestyle and contribute to the evolution of travel in this sanctuary for contemplation and mindfulness where nature and elegance intertwine.
South Africa’s Fynbos plant species won the gold medal at the 2024 Chelsea Flower Show, earning the country its 37th top award for fynbos displays since 1976. The fynbos species are a significant source of revenue through exports, generating around R85 million in revenue. The success at Chelsea and the thriving fynbos industry narrate a deeply inspiring story of South Africa where the beauty of nature intertwines with the lives of the communities that cultivate it, culminating in a harmonious blend of growth, diversity, and prosperity that transcends national boundaries.
The unveiling ceremony in Soweto honored 21 former MK Freedom Fighters who served in the Umkhonto we Sizwe operations between 1986 and 1990. The event was a reminder of the sacrifices these men made during a tumultuous chapter in South Africa’s history and a crucial component of a constitutional mandate that compels South Africans to acknowledge past wrongs and salute those who bore the brunt in the pursuit of justice and independence. As South Africans, it is our duty to ensure their legacy perseveres by extending our support to the veterans and their families.
Cape Town’s Arts and Culture and Environmental Planning and Sustainability Branches collaborated to offer a unique heritage education programme for young people, allowing them to connect with their roots and learn about the city’s history. The programme included engaging and immersive activities, such as educational sessions at the Attic Exhibition and guided tours of the Company’s Garden. This initiative aims to promote social harmony and unity, inspire curiosity in environmental planning and sustainability careers, and encourage the youth to shape a sustainable and cultured future.
A man named Luyanda Botha is facing trial in South Africa for another attempted rape, adding to his previous conviction for the rape and murder of Uyinene Mrwetyana. Both incidents highlight the ongoing battle against genderbased violence in the country. The trial also uncovers a disturbing pattern of behavior by Botha, whose actions have become a potent symbol of South Africa’s struggle against gender violence, with efforts underway to transform the location of Mrwetyana’s tragic death into a symbol of hope and healing.
The Stormers have secured the retention of World Cup winner Manie Libbok through a threeyear extension contract, solidifying their future prospects. With exceptional agility, speed, and advanced kicking prowess, Libbok’s mastery on the rugby field is wellestablished. The commitment of Libbok and other team members symbolizes a robust foundation for the Stormers, positioning them as a challenging adversary. Libbok’s choice to extend his tenure with the Stormers reflects his confidence in the team’s vision and his desire to refine his skills under its banner, highlighting the franchise’s supportive atmosphere and ambitious goals.
Mitchells Plain, a suburb in Cape Town, is closing pedestrian and cycle lanes that have become hotspots for criminal activity in an initiative to combat crime. Since 2013, 57 lanes have been effectively shut down, with an additional 15 in the process of closure. Proposals for lane closures are reviewed by the local Subcouncil, followed by a public participation process, department assessments, and funding allocation. Mayor Geordin HillLewis leads the funding efforts, with R600,000 allocated from July 2024. The initiative demonstrates communityled urban planning to transform public spaces into safer environments.
The story of a crime lord, a detective, and a lawyer in South Africa’s criminal underworld is filled with deception, betrayal, and digital manipulation. Advanced digital tracking systems were used to stalk and attempt to assassinate targets, highlighting the need for strong cyber laws and digital forensic capabilities. The tale shines a spotlight on individuals who continue to pursue justice despite threats to their own lives and reminds us that the battle against organized crime is far from over.
Former Miss World and Miss South Africa, Rolene Strauss, has opened up about her personal experience with HIV to break down the stigma surrounding the virus. After contracting HIV while caring for a patient, Strauss underwent postexposure prophylaxis while nursing her child and subsequently became an advocate for maternal and child health. She is now part of the ForeverWena campaign, which provides support and information to those in need, and emphasizes the importance of awareness, preparedness, and empowerment in tackling HIV.
Justice Yvonne Mokgoro was an extraordinary trailblazer, breaking through barriers to become the first black woman appointed to South Africa’s Constitutional Court. Her legacy extends beyond South Africa, as she presided over the UN’s Internal Justice Council and was appointed as the inaugural chair of the Independent Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Justice and Equality in LawEnforcement by the UN Human Rights Council. Her legal philosophy centered around human dignity, and her judgments consistently championed the rights of the most vulnerable members of society. Her life and legacy serve as a potent reminder of our shared responsibility to build a society centered on true equality, liberty, and respect for human rights.
Leon Schuster, the beloved South African comedian and actor, celebrated his 73rd birthday with his characteristic resilience despite personal struggles and physical challenges. Schuster’s unwavering spirit and positivity continue to inspire and guide fans through life’s most formidable challenges. Although he has been grappling with physical and mental distress, Schuster remains a beacon of resilience, inspiration, and joy, his infectious laughter, radiant smile, and high spirits never wavering.
The importance of safety adherence in the construction industry has been emphasized following recent building disasters in South Africa. The Department of Employment and Labour is committed to conducting detailed examinations and introducing necessary precautions to safeguard workers. The Ballito building disaster that took four lives has left a lasting impact on the community, and investigations have established a connection between the contractor managing the construction work and the owner of the private house. The government urges all employers to understand and adhere to health and safety laws to avoid the repetition of such tragic incidents.
