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Cape Town News
Cape Town is pioneering strategies to tackle homelessness through the groundbreaking Street People Policy launched in 2013. This policy has enabled easier access to social services, promoted reintegration, and guaranteed access to critical identification documents and social grants. The city’s strategy is always evolving, and the new draft strategy aims to further mitigate the factors that increase vulnerability to homelessness. The public participation process allows citizens to contribute their insights and assist in shaping the city’s strategy for addressing homelessness.
The Safety and Security Directorate of Cape Town has proposed a draft budget for the fiscal year 2024/25, which focuses on utilizing cuttingedge technology and conventional practices to establish an environment that is not only secure but also operationally efficient. The budget proposes a substantial allocation of roughly R363 million for the procurement of new equipment, expanding the city’s CCTV network, refurbishing buildings, and enhancing the efficiency of the Emergency Policing Incident Control system. The Safety and Security Directorate’s unwavering dedication to integrating technology into its operations is wellfounded, and the proposed budget signifies a brave move towards a future where technology and tradition unite in the pursuit of safer, more secure communities.
Cape Town is facing a growing extortion problem that affects various sectors of the city, including business centers, public transportation networks, and service delivery contractors. To combat the issue, the City of Cape Town has introduced initiatives such as offering a reward to those who provide information leading to the capture of extortionists and launching public awareness campaigns. However, the fight against extortion is an uphill battle, and the city needs the collective efforts of its residents, authorities, and the broader South African community to restore safety and prosperity to the city.
Three law enforcement officers have been charged for their violent attack on a barber in Mowbray, Cape Town, following an indepth investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID). The victim has chosen to take legal action against the officers and the national and provincial police commissioners. The case brings attention to the urgent requirement for reform and responsibility within South Africa’s policing agencies.
Law enforcement agencies in South Africa intercepted a drug courier from Eastern Cape en route to Cape Town and seized R2 million worth of mandrax, an illegal synthetic drug. A hidden compartment in the vehicle’s rear contained 50,000 packets of the drug, highlighting the pervasive infiltration of the illegal drug trade. The operation showcased the exceptional coordination among the Hawks, SANEB, and Crime Intelligence’s Counter Narcotics and Gangs, and the impact of their dedicated efforts in disrupting drug supply chains.
Experience the thrill of quad biking in Cape Town with Quad Bike Craze, Wild X Adventures, or Thrill Seekers. Explore the diverse cultures and natural beauty of the city on rugged trails or sandy dunes, with options for both novices and seasoned riders. These excursions offer more than just a tour; they embody the adventurous spirit and mesmerizing allure of Cape Town. Book your unforgettable quad biking adventure today on Cape {town} Etc.
JessicaAnn Shepherd, the founder of clothing brand Oddity, has won the Mr Price New Talent Search 2024, a prestigious fashion competition in South Africa. Her winning collection, ‘Eco Dream Reimagined,’ impressed the judges with its sustainable approach to fashion, using upcycling methods and excess fabric to create vibrant and unique designs. As well as receiving a cash reward and mentorship programme, Shepherd will design a collection to be sold in select Mr Price stores next year. This win is a testament to the emerging talent in South Africa’s fashion industry.
In the tranquil De Hoop Nature Reserve, conservationists Christina Hagen and Katta Ludynia discovered the lifeless bodies of 11 African penguins, victims of a honey badger attack. Despite this tragedy, the conservation team quickly sought advice and devised new safety measures to protect the penguin colony and prevent future attacks. The African penguin population is critically low, but with the dedication of organizations like CapeNature and BirdLife South Africa, there is hope for the survival of this extraordinary species.
Hout Bay in South Africa has been facing persistent water supply disruptions due to pipeline leaks and bursts, causing discomfort for the inhabitants and commercial entities. Despite the ongoing struggle, the local government is determined to find longterm solutions to the problem, while the City’s maintenance personnel and technical specialists work tirelessly to restore the water supply. However, Hout Bay residents show resilience and unity in the midst of the crisis, embodying the unbreakable spirit of the community.
The Dido Valley Development in Simon’s Town, South Africa, is a housing project worth R170 million, offering housing opportunities to 600 Redhill and Luyolo beneficiaries. The project represents a symbol of recovery and reparation, enabling the Luyolo community to reclaim their ancestral home in Simon’s Town and catering to the needs of the Redhill community. The City’s comprehensive housing allocation policy ensures a fair and transparent distribution of housing opportunities, with the project set for completion in June 2026.
The Gleave Album is a collection of photographs from the 1800s to the 1960s that offers a glimpse into the past of Cape Town. The images capture the city’s evolution and constancy, paying tribute to its inhabitants, their lived experiences, and the terrains they dwelled in. From the formative years of Camps Bay to the changing times and glimpses of historical events, the album narrates a tale abundant with intricate details of a city taking shape, making it a precious portal into the city’s history.
The Bulls’ upcoming URC Round 14 game against Munster is highly anticipated, with Simphiwe Matanzima and Embrose Papier reaching their 50th cap landmarks. Matanzima is a crucial player in the Bulls’ defense, with an impressive record of 162 completed tackles and a 95% success rate. Papier, on the other hand, has been vital to the team’s offense with 11 tries and strategic gameplay. The Bulls’ coach, Jake White, remains optimistic despite injuryrelated challenges, and the team is determined to secure a highranking finish in the competition.
South Africa is transforming its national security apparatus through the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill (GILAB). The Ad Hoc Committee on GILAB is seeking public feedback on critical aspects of the proposed amendments, including creating an Evaluation Committee to oversee intelligence activities, appointing a Deputy Chairperson for the JSCI, and empowering the IGI to perform oversight functions. This public engagement ensures diverse perspectives on shaping South Africa’s intelligence sector and strengthens parliamentary supervision. The Committee is welcoming written submissions on the issues and adopting technological solutions for more accessible and convenient participation.
The Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer beetle is an invasive species threatening Cape Town’s urban forest, and traditional pesticides are ineffective against it. Chipping infected trees onsite is crucial to preventing its spread. The City of Cape Town has initiated training sessions to raise awareness and promote ecofriendly gardening. Residents are urged to report infestations and take necessary steps to prevent the beetle from spreading, as it poses a significant risk to the city’s urban forest.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent visit to Juba, South Sudan, aimed to enhance the alliance between the two nations and bolster South Africa’s support for South Sudan during this crucial phase in its history. The visit highlighted the shared goals and vision of the two nations, born out of mutual struggle, and showcased the importance of diplomacy and bilateral relationships in promoting peace and fostering development. President Ramaphosa expressed South Africa’s commitment to support South Sudan during the transitional period and beyond, underlining the essence of their shared history and friendship.
The Somerset West Family Shelter is an indispensable function during harsh winters as it provides a secure and supportive environment for homeless families. It is unique in that it allows families to stay together in individual rooms, which has drawn in applications from as far as Johannesburg. The shelter offers skills enhancement programs, enabling residents to carve out new careers and regain control over their lives. However, longterm solutions to homelessness require the support of rehabilitation programs, and the City of Cape Town is taking proactive steps to address the issue.
