Loadshedding has become a significant issue in South Africa, particularly during winter when more power is required from the national grid. These planned power outages have raised concerns about food security in the country, with the retail and agriculture industries fearing possible food shortages due to the impact of loadshedding on their operations and logistics.
The recent incident in Browns Farm has once again highlighted the ongoing issue of violent crimes in South Africa, particularly in the Western Cape. According to the latest crime statistics released by the SAPS in September 2022, there has been a 6.7% increase in murders in the Western Cape over the previous financial year. This trend underscores the need for continued efforts to combat crime in the province.
The South African government has recently invested ZAR500m ($32m) to refurbish small harbors in the Western Cape as part of the Small Harbours Repairs and Maintenance Programme. Spearheaded by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, the initiative aims to improve the local economy, efficiency, and job market.
President Cyril Ramaphosa recently addressed the 2nd Presidential Health Summit at the Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg, Gauteng, reflecting on the Presidential Health Compact signed four years ago. The summit brought together stakeholders from various sectors to develop short and longterm solutions to challenges facing South Africa’s healthcare system.
South Africa has been grappling with frequent power blackouts, forcing the government to seek alternative solutions to address the power crisis. In a bid to focus on the potential of renewable energy sources, Premier Alan Winde recently hosted the 9th Energy Digicon in the Western Cape province.
The Loskop Bulk Water Supply Project is a significant initiative to address the water supply challenges experienced by communities in the Thembisile Hani Municipality and eight other villages in the Limpopo province of South Africa. The project is worth R1.67 billion and has five work packages, including laying 30 km of pipelines from Loskop Dam and constructing two water reservoirs, pump stations, and water treatment works.
The 5th Global Conference on Biodiversity Finance, organized by the South African government and the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN), is scheduled to take place on May 9, 2023, in Cape Town, South Africa. The event will provide an opportunity for government representatives, private sector members, experts, and academics to share experiences and engage in technical discussions on biodiversity finance solutions and investments in BIOFIN countries and regions.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and its Investigating Directorate (ID) leadership have decided to appeal the judgment of the Nulane R24.9 million feasibility study case. This case was handed down on April 21st, 2023, in Bloemfontein. This move is essential in the fight against corruption in South Africa. However, the ruling raised severe concerns, which the appeal seeks to address.
Access to the internet has become an integral part of our daily lives, connecting us to people from all over the world, providing us with the latest news, and facilitating business transactions. However, not everyone has equal access to the internet, particularly those in underserved communities. The high cost of data and unreliable internet connectivity are major obstacles that limit internet access for those living in these areas.
Genderbased violence (GBV) remains critical in South Africa’s posteducation and training sector. Female students are particularly vulnerable to experiencing physical and psychological harm, as demonstrated by a Higher Health (HH) study, which found that 62% of South African students feel unsafe on campus.
Pretty Yende’s story is an inspiring tale of perseverance and talent. Growing up in a small town in South Africa, Yende discovered her passion for singing at a young age. ## Pivotal Time at UCT Opera School
Recycling cardboard is often viewed as a way to reduce waste and protect the environment, but for six women in Durban, South Africa, it is much more than that. These women, all single mothers, rely on recycling cardboard to survive and provide for their families.
As May marks Energy Month in South Africa, taking actionable steps toward conserving energy is crucial. The City of Cape Town encourages residents to implement simple measures to help alleviate the burden on the national electrical grid and decrease the risk of load shedding.
Hlengiwe Buthelezi is a queer activist, athlete, and political figure dedicated to creating a more inclusive and just society. Born and raised in South Africa, Buthelezi has experienced firsthand the challenges that queer people face in the region and worldwide.
The Comrades Marathon is a renowned longdistance race that has evolved into a cultural phenomenon and international event, symbolizing South African identity, unity, and perseverance. With its grueling course and challenging terrain, it has gained a reputation as one of the most rewarding experiences in the world of running.
Astron Energy, a South African refinery company, faces criticism following a recent product spill from their Milnerton Refinery that leaked into Table Bay waterways, affecting local birds and wildlife. Environmental groups and community members are frustrated with Astron’s response to the spill, with concerns raised about the fall’s extent and the booms’ effectiveness.
