Stilbaai is a hidden treasure on South Africa’s coast, full of beautiful sights and fun activities. You can swim in the calm Goukou River, enjoy sunbathing at Lappiesbaai Beach, or hike the challenging Sleeping Beauty ridge for stunning views. For those who love good food, there are tasty gin tastings at Inverroche Distillery and mouthwatering cheese at Kasselshoop. You can also explore the fascinating history at the Blombos Museum and see ancient fish traps at Skulpiesbaai Beach. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Stilbaai has it all!
South Africa is carefully managing its relationship with the United States, focusing on respect and independence. The African National Congress (ANC) wants to show that they won’t be bullied, using established diplomatic channels instead of special delegations. They believe in maintaining dignity on the world stage, drawing from their rich history of fighting for autonomy. By sticking to their own diplomatic structures, South Africa aims to stand strong while still engaging with other countries. This strategy highlights their commitment to sovereignty and respectful dialogue in a complex global landscape.
Cape Town is a sweet paradise for dessert lovers, bursting with tasty treats to try! At Unframed Ice Cream, you can enjoy fun and creative flavors like vegan chocolate. Jason Bakery serves the famous ‘doughssants’ that everyone loves, while The Ice Café brings back memories with its retro ice cream flavors. For a classic soft serve, head to The Dairy Den. Don’t miss the whimsical cupcakes at Charly’s Bakery or the handmade chocolate at Honest Chocolate. Each spot is a delicious adventure waiting for you!
South Africa’s recent VAT increase by 1% is stirring up strong feelings across the country. Critics say this tax hike will hit lowincome families and the middle class the hardest, making life even tougher for those already struggling. While the government argues that the extra money will help pay for important services like health and education, many believe there are better ways to support people without adding to their financial burdens. Amidst this tough news, there is a bright spot: increased funding for early childhood education, which could help lift many families out of poverty and build a better future.
Sandiso Hlalaphi turned his own battles with sadness and suicidal thoughts into a powerful mission for mental health in South Africa. After a lifechanging 56km run in 2021, he founded the 4Impilo Mental Fitness Centre to create safe spaces for those in need. His upcoming 200km TownshiptoTownship Duathlon symbolizes hope and unity, as it connects different communities while raising awareness about mental health and genderbased violence. Hlalaphi’s journey shows how one person’s strength can inspire many, reminding us that no one has to face their struggles alone.
Cape Town is a lively city where making friends is as easy as joining a fun club! You can dive into your passion for writing at the Cape Town Writers Network, find joy in quiet reading at the Silent Book Club, get moving with friends at Park Run, or skate with a vibrant community at the Cape Town Roller Girls. Each of these groups offers a warm space to connect with others who share your interests, turning solo time into shared adventures filled with laughter and new friendships!
In Cape Town, Uturn Homeless Ministries and The Hope Exchange have joined forces to fight homelessness. This exciting partnership, called ‘The Hope Exchange operated by Uturn,’ combines their strengths to support those in need more effectively. By merging Uturn’s innovative recovery programs with The Hope Exchange’s longstanding services, they aim to provide better living conditions and pathways for the homeless. Together, they are shining a bright light of hope, helping people rebuild their lives and reconnect with their communities.
Stilbaai is a stunning coastal village in South Africa that charms visitors with its natural beauty and rich history. Here, you can paddle in the Goukou River, relax on the beautiful Lappiesbaai Beach, or taste delicious gin at Inverroche Distillery. For adventure seekers, the Sleeping Beauty hike offers breathtaking views after a thrilling trek. Don’t miss the ancient tidal fish traps and Kasselshoop’s artisanal cheeses, which add to the magic of this hidden gem. Discover Stilbaai, and let its wonder fill your heart!
South Africa’s business scene is stuck in a web of red tape, making it hard for companies to grow and attract investment. With high unemployment and strict rules, many voices, including business leaders like Standard Bank’s CEO, urge the government to simplify regulations. This change could help innovative companies, like Starlink, bring better internet access to underserved areas and spark new opportunities. By reducing bureaucracy, South Africa can unleash its full potential, paving the way for a thriving economy and a brighter future for all its people. The time for action is now!
South African cricket stands at a crossroads, buzzing with hope and challenges. The game, loved by many, is pushing to include more players of color through strict quotas, but this has sparked debates about fairness and skill. The Eastern Cape Warriors faced backlash for not meeting these quotas, highlighting the tension between tradition and the need for change. Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie passionately argues for a team that truly reflects South Africa’s diversity, insisting that cricket should unite rather than divide. As the sun sets over the cricket fields, the journey toward a more inclusive sport continues, driven by the belief that everyone deserves a chance to shine.
The Cape Town Carnival on March 15, 2025, is set to light up the streets with a dazzling display of color and joy. Expect a parade filled with vibrant floats, lively music, and talented performers, showcasing the rich culture of South Africa. With free entry and an entertainment village boasting delicious food, everyone can join in this unforgettable celebration. The carnival, themed *WowZA!*, promises to weave together stories from the city’s diverse communities, making it a joyous gathering for all who attend. Don’t miss this chance to experience Cape Town’s spirit through dance, music, and creativity!
Ebrahim Rasool, South Africa’s ambassador to the U.S., stirred up a storm when he critiqued American politics, leading to tensions with the U.S. government. His speech compared U.S. foreign policy to a telescope, suggesting that countries should align their actions with their values. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called Rasool ‘persona non grata,’ accusing him of racebaiting after he mentioned changing demographics in America. This sparked a heated debate about the connection between race and politics, showing how deeply personal and national identities can affect international relations. Rasool’s words highlighted the need for calm and thoughtful engagement, urging South Africa to navigate these diplomatic challenges wisely.
The Protea Village reclamation project is a joyful step toward healing and fairness for families affected by apartheid. On a sunny Tuesday, community members and government officials came together to celebrate the start of building 86 new homes for those who lost their land decades ago. With a mix of excitement and hope, families like Kathleen Basson’s, Sonia Roman’s, and Martha Thomas’s are eager to return to a place filled with memories of love and connection. This project not only restores homes but also symbolizes a brighter future where communities can thrive together. It shows that when people unite with a shared goal, they can overcome past injustices and create a better tomorrow.
A historic agreement has been made to protect the endangered African Penguin from extinction by limiting fishing around six important breeding islands. This deal, reached through cooperation among the government, conservation groups, and the fishing industry, aims to ensure the penguins have enough food to survive. Once a common sight along Africa’s coast, their numbers have dropped drastically due to overfishing. This landmark effort shows that people can work together to balance nature and industry, giving hope for a brighter future for these charming birds.
The Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB) is a dangerous beetle invading Cape Town’s trees, especially weeping willows and English oaks. This tiny pest can cause big harm, leading to the loss of urban forests and the animals that live in them. In Oakdale, the first sighting has sparked worry among locals, urging everyone to check their trees for signs of this beetle. Leaders are calling for community action and teamwork to inspect trees and stop the spread of this threat, making it clear that every little effort counts in protecting Cape Town’s green spaces and natural beauty.
Cape Town’s Sky Circle project is an exciting new plan to improve how people move around the city. By building a raised traffic circle, it will connect different neighborhoods better and make the MyCiTi bus service more efficient. While construction starts this weekend, with some temporary road changes, the city hopes that the longterm benefits will be worth it. This project is not just about roads—it symbolizes Cape Town’s vision for a greener and more connected future, ensuring that everyone can travel easily and sustainably.