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Cape Town News
Get ready to embrace the beauty of Cape Town’s biodiversity by participating in the global City Nature Challenge from April 26 to 29, 2024. All it takes is a snapshot of indigenous flora or fauna uploaded to the iNaturalist app, and Cape Town’s rich natural preserves and conservation zones offer abundant options for observation. Beyond a competition, this challenge is a chance for residents and tourists to marvel at the city’s ecological wealth and contribute to a colossal record of local wildlife data.
Keith Boyd’s audacious run from Cape Town to Cairo is a vivid portrayal of South Africa’s continued pursuit of progress and liberty. Despite facing an attempted abduction in Ethiopia, the 57yearold adventurer pressed on and recently celebrated his arrival in Cairo. Boyd’s objective is to motivate his compatriots, particularly the younger generation, to exercise their right to vote and to reinforce the idea that boundaries are meant to be transcended. His journey is a collective symbol of the undying resilience and grit that define the human spirit.
The City’s Urban Waste Management Directorate has unveiled its budget plan for 2024/25, which prioritizes the improvement of sanitation and waste collection services, waste reduction capacity, and compliance with safety regulations. The budget includes significant allocations for refurbishing facilities, smallscale enhancements, and capital expenditure, funding a range of innovative projects and sustainable practices. The Directorate encourages public participation and feedback on the proposed initiatives, which will shape a more ecofriendly and efficient future for the City.
Eight individuals appeared in court on April 24, 2024, in Klerksdorp, South Africa, accused of gangrelated crimes including three murders and two attempted murders. The AlQaeda gang members were apprehended as part of an operation driven by crime intelligence and the Provincial AntiGang Unit. The ongoing battle against gang violence in South Africa highlights the crucial role of teamwork and intelligence in securing justice for victims. The accused are set to appear in court again on May 2, 2024, to apply for bail.
Faf de Klerk, a Springbok rugby player, and his wife, Mine, became firsttime parents to their daughter, RemiRé earlier this year. The arrival of this new ‘Bok baby’ added to the joy of the Springbok family, which has welcomed three new babies this year. Faf and Mine’s love story resembles a captivating novel of love’s resilience, rekindled romance, and the birth of their daughter, RemiRé, which is a testament to their enduring bond and the power of love.
Kaizer Chiefs, one of South Africa’s top football teams, is searching for a new head coach for the upcoming season. Molefi Ntseki, the previous coach, faced criticism for his lack of experience despite having led Bafana Bafana. His term was terminated before the halfway point due to poor results, and Cavin Johnson took over temporarily, securing a few wins. The club is now considering both domestic and foreign candidates, including Vladimir Vermezovic, who previously led the team to victory. Fans are eagerly anticipating a quick resolution to the coaching dilemma.
The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) is a government initiative in South Africa that aims to create job opportunities for those who cannot enter the formal economy. Over the past 20 years, it has created more than 14 million job opportunities across different sectors, from early childhood development to community crime deterrence. The EPWP has transformed lives and communities, instigating positive change across the nation, and its success has even extended beyond South Africa’s borders. As the EPWP enters into its next phase, the government is committed to enhancing the quality of service delivery, boosting youth involvement, and fortifying skills development.
Oscar Pistorius has been released from prison after serving more than eight years for the murder of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp. His return to society has sparked mixed reactions from the public, with some sympathizing with him and others expressing outrage. Social media users have also criticized his physical appearance after prison, with some empathizing with Steenkamp’s mother and others arguing that Pistorius deserves a second chance. Despite the polarizing views surrounding him, Pistorius is forbidden from making any public statements until 2029.
Ruan Pienaar is a rugby legend who is now transitioning from being a player to a coach. He will be joining the coaching crew of Free State U21 as the backline and attack coach. Pienaar’s objective is to elevate the skill level necessary to implement the game plan preferred by the Toyota Cheetahs and foster the development of future senior players. As Pienaar gears up for his coaching initiation, the SA Rugby U21 Cup is scheduled to commence on Friday, 3 May.
King Charles’ decision to expel Prince Harry from Frogmore Cottage has caused controversy and reignited discussions about privilege and duty within the royal family. Prince Harry’s public display of emotion has been met with criticism by some, while others see it as a reflection of the complexities of privilege, duty, and personal choice. The controversy highlights the ongoing struggle to balance tradition with evolving social expectations within the monarchy.
Kyle Goetsch, a landscape photographer from Cape Town, captures the city’s natural beauty through his captivating images. His viral Milky Way over Lion’s Head photograph required extensive planning, research, and patience. Goetsch’s photography process involves monitoring weather applications, moon phases, and rare events, and his love for adventure has led him on various exciting journeys. He shares his expertise by conducting workshops and private lessons, making him a true representative of the craft.
Comic Con Cape Town is more than just a convention, it’s a celebration of pop culture that promises an unforgettable journey for fans. With international celebrities, local talents, collectibles, and immersive activities, the event offers something for everyone. KidsCon provides a funfilled day for children with activities tailored to their interests, while themed nights and horror events offer a spinetingling experience for all attendees. It’s a vibrant and inclusive community of shared interests and passions that welcomes everyone.
Nawaal Botha, a Hanover Park resident, experienced a terrifying petrolbomb attack on her council apartment in the early morning hours, but her husband was able to extinguish the fire. The reason for the attack remains unknown, but Hanover Park is a community plagued by gang violence and crime. Botha’s daughter and grandchildren have been traumatized, and the family is frustrated with the lack of action from law enforcement. This attack is just one of many in the area, highlighting the harsh reality of living in a community paralyzed by gang violence and fear.
Nestlé has come under fire for its marketing of sugarladen infant food products, with high sugar content found in some of their products in certain countries. This has led to concerns about rising obesity rates among children in low and middleincome countries. Investigations by Swissbased research organization Public Eye revealed the discrepancy, with the World Health Organisation calling for a ban on added sugar in products for babies and infants under three years old. The scandal highlights the urgent need for a holistic and ethical approach to food production that prioritizes public health over profit margins.
‘Stop Food Waste Day’ is an important day that reminds us to make responsible choices, reduce carbon emissions, and strive for sustainability. Food waste contributes to global warming and climate change by releasing methane gas. We can take simple steps like mindful meal planning, proper storage of food, creative cooking, and supporting food redistribution initiatives to reduce food waste. Businesses also play a significant role in reducing food waste. By making small changes, we can safeguard our future and create a more resilient planet.
The trial of ‘Mr X’ reveals the dark and dangerous underworld of Cape Town. Mr X worked as a debt collector for entrepreneur Mark Lifman and his story portrays his journey from an insurance agent to becoming an enforcer in Lifman’s criminal empire, filled with threats and physical violence. The trial focuses on the murder of Brian Weinstein and the power struggles between Lifman’s faction and a rival group, providing a glimpse into the hidden world beneath the city’s glamorous facade. The trial highlights the resilience of justice in the face of danger and lawlessness.
