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Cape Town News
Early one morning in Cape Town’s Tafelsig neighborhood, anger over illegal electricity cuts exploded into violence at the Swartklip Road Pump Station. Attackers smashed cameras, stole power cables, and left the vital sewage pumps broken and silent. This caused dangerous sewage buildup, threatening health and safety for the whole community. The crisis reveals how deep poverty and mistrust can turn essential city services into battlegrounds, showing that fixing pipes and wires isn’t enough without healing the people they serve.
Constable Jongikhaya Mzimba’s journey from the quiet hills of Tsolo to the busy streets of Cape Town is truly inspiring. As a member of the SAPS Mounted Unit, he works closely with his horse Leo to keep communities safe and build trust, especially with young people. Together, they break barriers, turning the bond between horse and rider into a bridge between police and the public. Mzimba’s story shows how determination and heart can turn humble beginnings into meaningful service and hope for the future.
Get ready for an exciting time at the library! From December 16 to 21, kids can return their overdue books without any fees during Fine Free Week. It’s a great chance to reconnect with the magic of reading. Plus, starting December 17, the EcoWarrior Reading Programme will engage kids ages 9 to 13 in fun ecothemed activities, helping them learn about the environment while improving their reading skills. These initiatives not only bring books back to the shelves but also inspire young minds to care for our planet!
Cape Town is inviting its residents to help shape the future of their neighborhoods through new community groups called Spatial Planning Collectives. These groups will bring people together from all parts of the city to share ideas and work with city planners on important decisions about land, parks, housing, and transport. Anyone can join by nominating local groups online, in offices, or by phone. This exciting chance lets everyday people learn about city planning and turn their ideas into real changes, making Cape Town a more fair and lively place for everyone.
Cape Town struggles to turn illegal gun arrests into convictions because its courts and forensic labs are slow and understaffed. Police seize many illegal firearms, but only a tiny fraction of cases lead to justice, leaving dangerous criminals free. The city hopes to fix this by giving local officers more power to investigate, speeding up cases and making neighborhoods safer. Despite the challenges, communities and leaders keep fighting, blending hope and hard work beneath the shadow of Table Mountain.
In Hammarsdale, South Africa, a peaceful evening turned into a nightmare when three police officers responded to a murder call. A violent confrontation with an armed suspect left two officers and an elderly woman dead, leaving the community in shock and grief. Despite the tragedy, the town showed incredible strength, uniting in the face of loss and seeking justice for their fallen heroes. The swift arrest of the suspect brought a glimmer of hope, reminding everyone of the need for safety and healing. As Hammarsdale begins to recover, its spirit shines bright, promising a future where peace can thrive.
In Cape Town’s Northern Suburbs like Brackenfell, crime from drugs and gangs shadows daily life, but police and community groups are fighting back together. A routine traffic stop turned into a dramatic chase, revealing how deeply crime is woven into the neighborhood. Officers seize guns and drugs regularly, showing that safety is slowly being reclaimed. With courage from residents and ongoing support for youth, there is hope that Brackenfell’s streets can become safe and bright again.
Jenna Clifford was a beloved South African jeweller who turned jewellery into stories full of meaning and heart. She fought hard to open doors for women in a tough industry and cared deeply about using ethical materials. More than an artist, she was a mentor and a friend, creating a warm studio where clients felt seen and valued. Jenna’s legacy lives on through her family and the many lives she touched with her kindness, creativity, and fearless spirit. Her art and spirit will continue to shine brightly in South Africa for years to come.
Cape Town buzzes with excitement as 55,000 rugby fans gather to watch the Springboks face Australia at DHL Stadium. The city comes alive with shuttles, extra trains, and special rideshare zones, making it easy and fun to get to the game. Security is tight but friendly, ensuring everyone feels safe while sharing cheers and highfives. The stadium, framed by Table Mountain, fills with greenandgold colors, laughter, and the thrill of rugby’s rich history. This match is more than a game it’s a joyful celebration that unites the city in pride and hope.
FurnTech is changing lives in Nyanga, Cape Town, by turning an old workshop into a lively place where people learn woodworking and business skills. This handson training helps many start their own furniture businesses, creating jobs and hope in a community that faced many struggles. With support from the city, FurnTech’s center has become a bright spot where talent and dreams grow, proving that even tough places can build strong futures.
The Bonteheuwel Infill Housing Project in Cape Town is bringing new hope to a community long shaped by struggle. It builds 273 safe, statesupported homes on land once neglected, giving families a place to call their own after decades of waiting. More than just houses, these homes symbolize healing and belonging, turning past pain into a fresh start. As children play and neighbors connect, Bonteheuwel’s streets are alive again with dreams coming true. This project is a bright example of how fair housing and care can rebuild lives.
Lieutenant Colonel Nondumiso Mabaso is a shining hero in the fight against genderbased violence in South Africa. Working in the Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Unit, she helps victims find their voices and fights for justice. With her compassion and expertise, she has helped put many offenders behind bars, including those who have harmed children. Mabaso believes that everyone in the community shares the duty to protect the vulnerable, spreading hope and inspiring action to create a safer world for all. Her work is a powerful reminder that together, we can make a difference.
Rising library leaders in Cape Town are turning libraries into lively, creative spaces where tradition meets fresh ideas. Through programs like SILL, they are learning to lead with imagination, using games, digital skills, and community teamwork to make libraries places where everyone feels welcome. Young librarians bring energy and new ways of thinking, while older mentors share wisdom, creating a strong, caring community. These libraries are no longer quiet rooms but buzzing hubs of learning, culture, and connection for all ages. Together, they are shaping a bright future where libraries inspire and empower everyone in the city.
The City has created a caring and complete plan to help people who sleep on the streets. Safe Spaces offer warm shelter, food, and friendly social workers who listen and help with personal goals. Programs teach skills and offer jobs, while addiction help and family support give new chances. This is more than just shelter it’s about restoring hope, dignity, and a fresh start for each person. The City believes everyone deserves kindness and a chance to rebuild their lives.
Cape Town is planning to improve the busy Camps Bay and Dal Road intersection by adding a special rightturn lane to ease traffic jams and make the area safer for drivers, cyclists, and walkers. This small change aims to help cars flow better during rush hour while keeping everyone safer. The city is also inviting local people to share their thoughts, making sure the upgrade reflects the community’s needs. More than just fixing traffic, this project shows how Cape Town wants to create streets that bring people together and keep the city moving smoothly.
During National Science Week, Cape Town’s libraries come alive with fun, handson STEAM activities like coding, experiments, and creative workshops. They open doors for all kids especially girls and those from underserved areas to explore science and technology, sparking curiosity and confidence. These libraries aren’t just places for books anymore; they’re buzzing hubs where imagination and learning meet, inspiring the next generation of thinkers and makers.
