the ultimate mother city guide
Cape Town News
The Free State community gathered to contribute their suggestions for the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill, proposing the appointment of a Deputy Chairperson for the Joint Standing Committee on Intelligence and a Deputy InspectorGeneral of Intelligence, as well as the differentiation between domestic and foreign intelligence services and the establishment of a South African National Intelligence Academy. Youth engagement in matters related to national security and concerns about security challenges experienced by residents were also discussed. Renowned organisations and individuals provided their feedback, with differing opinions on the Bill’s provisions. The Bill is now heading towards its final public hearing in East London.
Maltento is a South African company that breeds black soldier flies to convert agroprocessing waste into proteinrich pet and aquaculture feed. Their unique farming methods not only produce functional proteins, healthy fats, and essential amino acids but also excrete a byproduct known as frass that has considerable nutritional value and can improve soil fertility. Maltento’s innovation and commitment to sustainability challenge preconceptions in the agritech and pet food industry, and their groundbreaking work highlights South Africa’s role in the global innovation landscape.
The City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate is conducting planned maintenance activities to preserve the water supply infrastructure. Zeropressure tests and state evaluations of the water supply network will be carried out from 29th April to 3rd May 2024, with water tankers provided for residents to minimize the inconvenience caused. The City has notified the Stellenbosch Municipality to make alternate arrangements during this maintenance period, and residents are advised to store enough water in clean, sealed containers and keep their taps closed. This initiative reflects the City’s dedication towards ensuring the longevity of its water infrastructure and commitment towards transparency and effective communication.
The CPBMJTT aims to incorporate the perspectives of community members and stakeholders instead of enforcing topdown solutions in their community dialogues to strengthen community engagement and develop customized solutions for baboon management. Led by representatives from SANParks, CapeNature, and the City of Cape Town, the meetings will empower community members to suggest relevant interventions and reflect the African philosophy of Ubuntu. The CPBMJTT is committed to transparency and inclusivity, and the community can access the Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan readily on their websites.
‘When Love Kills: The Tragic Tale of AKA and Anele’ is a heartwrenching book by Melinda Ferguson that tells the story of the tumultuous relationship between rapper AKA and his late fiancée, Anele Tembe, which ended tragically with her death in April 2023. The book vividly describes the chaotic events that led to Anele’s fatal fall, including a wild party marked by drug use and alcohol consumption. The story is also rife with controversy, including allegations of neglect by AKA and mysterious circumstances surrounding Anele’s phone after the incident.
The gig economy in South Africa is booming, with an estimated 4 million gig workers in the country. This flexible work arrangement covers a wide range of professionals and offers a lucrative platform for businesses targeting freelancers. Financial management for gig workers can be complex, but startups like Craft are providing solutions to make transactions smoother and facilitate financial management. The gig economy is set to reshape the idea of work in the upcoming years and is a major component of South Africa’s employment scene.
Supermodels Candice Swanepoel and Kate Upton took Miami by storm during a dynamic and iconic photoshoot. From Segways to bicycles and rollerblades, the models showcased their adaptability and fashion sense, all while exuding infectious positivity and grace. Swanepoel’s impeccable style and commanding presence cemented her position as a true fashion icon.
Louis Liebenberg, the owner of diamond company Tariomix, has faced allegations of operating a Ponzi scheme, enticing investors with offers of diamond parcels that resulted in major losses. Tariomix has accumulated around R4 billion from investors and creditors and now faces liquidation. Liebenberg recently launched a political party called Herbou, campaigning for economic reform and the transfer of mineral wealth to citizens. Despite the turmoil, Cape Town continues to thrive, offering attractive deals on cars under R100 000 to locals and tourists.
South Africa’s VIP bluelight brigades, used to escort top officials, have led to safety risks on the roads and an average monthly fuel bill exceeding R580,000. The South African Police Service’s VIP Protection Unit shoulders a significant portion of this cost. Taxpayers have expressed outrage at the imbalance in resource allocation, with R2.18 billion designated for VIP protection, closely following the R2.4 billion set aside for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations, or The Hawks, leading to questions about the appropriate use of taxpayer funds.
South Africa’s National Council of Provinces has made significant strides in promoting transparency and accountability in the country’s political system. Two reports were approved, focusing on ethical codes and disclosures of member interests, with harsher penalties suggested for violators. The revised code also aims to tackle ethical issues in social media and proposes riskprofile lifestyle audits. These measures aim to create a more trustworthy and accountable governance system, serving as a model for ethical conduct and representing a key advancement in the political evolution of the nation.
Phepsi Buthelezi is a rising star in the rugby world, impressing Sharks coach John Plumtree with his versatility as a forward player. Plumtree sees the potential for Buthelezi to develop into a player like Siya Kolisi, with his dedication and work ethic drawing comparisons to the esteemed backrow player. Buthelezi is still a work in progress, but his inclusion in the Sharks’ lineup for the upcoming United Rugby Championship against the Scarlets presents a golden opportunity to appreciate his potential.
The Port of Cape Town has announced that it will welcome private sector partnerships to address the inefficiencies that have plagued the port for some time. This move is expected to generate a significant R6 billion in exports, create around 20,000 jobs and yield over R1.6 billion in additional taxes over five years. The initiative has been championed by Alderman James Vos, who has called for a strategic transition towards private sector involvement. However, caution and due diligence are advised when scrutinising bidders to avoid potential risks.
South Africa’s public transport sector is embracing the electric revolution with the introduction of Lion’s Explorer E electric buses by Golden Arrow Bus Services. The electric buses are financially viable and address the country’s unique environmental conditions. With successful trials and positive feedback, the City of Cape Town plans to incorporate electric buses into MyCiTi Phase 2A by 2027, indicating the country’s commitment to sustainable transport. The transition towards electric buses is a refreshing development, showcasing the country’s dedication to green technology and a sustainable future.
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, is facing allegations of misconduct towards her former staff, which her legal team has dismissed as a premeditated attempt to tarnish her reputation. Esteemed royal analyst Tom Bower suggests that there could be more substance to these accusations, and former royal aide Samantha Cohen confirmed her participation in the Buckingham Palaceled investigation into the matter. The unfolding saga offers a glimpse into the intricate dynamics behind palace walls and the trials that come with a public life.
Cape Town’s Mayor is proposing a transformation of law enforcement in the city, expanding the jurisdiction of municipal officers to include crime investigation. This change is seen as crucial in supporting the South African Police Service in tackling escalating issues of gangrelated activities, gun crime, and drug trafficking. Three central reforms include expanding the definition of criminal investigation, endowing municipal officers with additional Peace Officer powers, and giving metros a more impactful role in local policing policies. The initiative is set to be supported by an investment of R138 million in safety vehicles and additional policing measures.
The Munster Rugby team paid tribute to their late coach, Greig Oliver, in a touching ceremony in Cape Town. Oliver was an instrumental figure in shaping the careers of many young players in the Munster Rugby Academy and was a mentor and paternal figure to them. He tragically passed away in a paragliding accident in July 2023. The team placed a commemorative wreath in remembrance of Oliver, marking their first visit to the city since his passing.
