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Cape Town News
Cape Town’s Development Management Department is planning to replace registered mail with email for notifications concerning the Municipal Planning Bylaw. The shift is expected to be more efficient, reliable, and economical for the City, ratepayers, and the applicant. The City has planned a transition period of roughly two years, but is continuing to use registered mail for individuals whose email addresses aren’t recorded in the City’s system.
Cape Town’s TER Scottsdene Pump Station is a groundbreaking project aimed at increasing the availability of treated effluent and reducing the city’s reliance on potable water supplies. It plays a crucial dual role, increasing the availability of treated effluent and significantly reducing reliance on potable water supplies. The project symbolizes Cape Town’s unwavering dedication to sustainable water management and becoming a waterconscious city.
South Africa has announced plans to end the breeding of captive lions for hunting, which has been heavily criticized by animal rights advocates and conservationists. The government has given breeders a twoyear grace period to switch their business approach and exit from the sector voluntarily. This move follows global backlash against trophy hunting and marks a shift towards aligning with international conservation trends and domestic policy changes.
A group called AgainstPeriodPoverty teamed up with the City of Cape Town Cycle Team to bring attention to the issue of period poverty in underprivileged areas. The event, which involved a challenging 13kilometer bike ride, was held at Strandfontein Sports Complex and required each participant to bring five packets of sanitary pads as an entry fee. The initiative aimed to show that menstrual hygiene products are a necessity, not a luxury, and that everyone should have access to them.
Ms. Nosiviwe MapisaNqakula resigned as the Speaker of the National Assembly and a Member of Parliament due to her strong belief in the credibility and responsibilities of Parliament and the laws of South Africa. Her resignation has caused a significant shakeup in South African parliamentary politics and sparked much analysis and conversation. Understanding the role of the Speaker in the legislative process is crucial in appreciating the weight of her resignation. Despite the transition, the Parliament remains dedicated to the service of the South African people and the preservation of the country’s legal structure.
Sebastian Vettel, a fourtime world champion, may be making a return to Formula One following discussions with Mercedes team leader Toto Wolff. This news brings an exciting twist to the everevolving world of F1. Vettel has confirmed that he is in conversations with Wolff, but his discussions are not solely focused on a potential F1 comeback. However, Vettel’s unwavering passion for racing is apparent, and fans are eagerly anticipating his next move.
Johannesburg was alarmed when highprofile businessman Julius Swart disappeared without a trace for almost two months. He was finally found safe and ready to reconnect with his family, but his case highlights the larger issue of missing persons in South Africa. The Pink Ladies, a nonprofit group that locates missing individuals, described Swart as “vulnerable,” reminding everyone of the need for immediate intervention and precautionary steps to help find missing persons. Reporting missing persons is a desperate expression of love and hope for those left behind, and swift action is essential to protecting citizens and ensuring safe reunions.
Cape Town’s new Safe Space shelter in the Durbanville region is a symbol of hope for the homeless community. The shelter offers job opportunities, personal development planning, and referrals for healthcare treatments, promoting individual growth and independence. The model comprises a dignified shelter, two daily meals, and an onsite social worker’s availability. The Durbanville Safe Space complements the existing infrastructure, extending support outside the Safe Space, and signifies a substantial leap towards a more inclusive city.
Cher dazzled the audience at the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards where she received the Icon Award for her sevendecadelong career in music. Her solo performance of “Believe” was followed by a surprise duet with Jennifer Hudson that left the audience in awe. Throughout the night, heartfelt tributes and reflections on her massive musical contributions were shared, celebrating her enduring legacy in the music industry. Cher’s acceptance of the Icon Award symbolized her impact as an iconic figure whose influence will echo through many generations to come.
The South African Springboks are preparing to return to the rugby pitch, and all eyes are on who will be chosen as the team’s captain. Coach Rassie Erasmus has hinted at a preference for a captain rooted in the local scene, casting doubt on Siya Kolisi’s role. However, Erasmus has also expressed his desire to retain Kolisi, citing his exceptional leadership and impressive win record. As speculation builds, the Springboks continue to embody unity, grit, and passion on their path to victory.
The Mariannhill Encounter was a dramatic event in South African law enforcement, as the KwaZuluNatal Provincial Stabilization Team encountered nine suspects accused of terrorizing the residents of Mariannhill. The suspects were involved in severe and violent crimes, including a gang rape, and were found with an arsenal of weapons. Despite being ambushed, the officers managed to neutralize the threat without any injuries, serving as a powerful symbol of justice and law enforcement perseverance.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s suggestion to discontinue social grants after the 2024 General Election if the African National Congress (ANC) does not win has caused political unrest. Opposition parties doubt the welfare system will be eradicated, and instead, offer different approaches, such as a Basic Income Grant or voucher system for job seekers. The future of social grants is yet to be determined, and discussions among political parties highlight the complexity of the issue and the potential to alter South Africa’s socioeconomic structure.
Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, announced her recent cancer diagnosis and current preventive chemotherapy in a video shared on social media. The composed and eloquent words were entirely her own, showcasing her personal strength and resilience. The video, viewed by millions, stands as a tribute to her bravery and the remarkable resilience of the human spirit.
The Suidoosterfees cultural festival is a dynamic and diverse event that features topnotch performances, interactive discussions, informative workshops, and mesmerizing visual arts. With its 21st edition in 2024, the festival promises to be an unforgettable experience with 21 unique productions each spanning 21 minutes. The festival showcases a range of genres including music, dance, comedy, and opera, and offers learning opportunities for budding artists. Visitors can also appreciate the works of various artists and engage in thoughtprovoking discussions on critical topics.
South African rapper Kiernan ‘AKA’ Forbes was murdered, and seven individuals were apprehended in connection with the crime. A significant deposit was made into one of the suspect’s accounts, alleged to be payment for a hired assassination, and the lead investigator named Mfundo Gcaba, who has familial ties to exPresident Jacob Zuma and substantial ownership of taxis and buses in KwaZuluNatal, as being involved. The Gcaba family denies any wrongdoing and emphasises Mfundo’s innocence and transparency in business operations, while the investigation sheds light on the complex interconnections between power, crime, business, and the arts in South African society.
Adolescent mental health is in crisis in the Western Cape, South Africa, with a recent study by the University of Cape Town revealing concerning trends in depression and anxiety among young people aged between 10 and 14. The lack of mental health services and awareness of the issue are contributing to the problem. The crisis requires comprehensive mental health support within the school environment to address the root causes identified in the study. The issue is not limited to the Western Cape, and urgent intervention is needed to address the global crisis.
