Fashion has always been a form of selfexpression, but the industry has been scrutinized for its environmental impact in recent years. However, in South Africa, a growing number of fashion brands are taking proactive steps toward sustainability and ethical production. From ecofriendly fabrics to upcycling materials, these brands are leading the way toward a more sustainable future for the fashion industry.
Cape clawless otters are one of the most endearing creatures on South Africa’s coastlines. These shy, nocturnal, and diurnal animals, slightly larger than one might expect, are the largest freshwater species after the South American otter. Unfortunately, their population is slowly decreasing, and they were listed as near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in 2014. However, their playful nature and endearing appearance make them a favorite among locals and tourists.
The Castle of Good Hope is a historical fortification in Cape Town, South Africa. Built in the 17th century, the Castle witnessed many untold evils, especially against the enslaved people. The Castle was once a place of atrocities, torture, and injustice, where enslaved people were treated inhumanely. However, today, the Castle of Good Hope symbolizes hope and reconciliation, reminding us of the importance of acknowledging the dark history of slavery and colonialism.
South Africa faces a severe social housing crisis, with many people living in inadequate and overcrowded conditions. **Dr. Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed**, a recent Ph.D. graduate from Stellenbosch University, has developed a solution to this problem. His innovative woodplastic composite material combines invasive Port Jackson trees with recycled lowgrade plastic waste to create affordable and sustainable housing.
On Friday, 21 April, the streets of eight Cape Town communities came alive with the launch of Sporting Chance Street Netball. Within the villages of Grassy Park, Elsies River, Mitchell’s Plain, Khayelitsha, Langa, Mfuleni, Ocean View, and Nomzamo, the program’s goal is to teach 768 young girls under the age of 13 essential life skills. In addition, the program also features a component that teaches life skills. This effort is being carried out as a part of the Countdown to the Netball World Cup being hosted by the City of Cape Town, and it is going to reach its climax during the festival finale, which will take place at the same time as the 2023 Vitality Netball World Cup. (VNWC).
The world of animation has been expanding rapidly, providing countless opportunities for local creators to showcase their work on a global stage. The Cape Town International Animation Festival (CTIAF), in partnership with the United States Consulate General in Cape Town, has taken this a step further by launching the Pitch, Persuade, Produce incubator program. This program offers aspiring South African creatives the chance to develop their pitching skills, sell their concepts effectively, and refine their creative works over eight weeks.
The fifth annual Investment Conference in South Africa, recently held in Johannesburg, has been a resounding success. The gathering, aimed at promoting investment in the country, attracted investors from both South Africa and other parts of the world. Some leading industries that received investment commitments included mining and mineral beneficiation, the energy sector, industrial sector, advanced materials, chemicals, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, infrastructure development, logistics, and social housing. With these sectors receiving significant investment commitments, the conference achieved its target of R1.2 trillion investments.
South Africa is a land of diversity and one of the most exciting destinations for tourists. The country boasts of spectacular natural landscapes, breathtaking coastlines, and rich cultural heritage. One of the most colorful and vibrant areas in South Africa is the BoKaap area in Cape Town. The area is known for its brightly painted houses, rich history, and unique culture. However, recent incidents of robbery targeting tourists in the area have raised concerns about tourist safety.
South Africa’s energy sector has seen a significant challenge in recent years. Eskom, the country’s leading power utility, has struggled to keep up with the growing electricity demand. The result has been frequent power outages, or load shedding, which have disrupted businesses and homes. The reasons for this crisis are complex, ranging from aging infrastructure to corruption allegations. In this article, we will explore the causes of the electricity crisis in South Africa, its impact on society, and the measures being taken to address the problem.
South Africa is home to some of the world’s deadliest snakes, including the Black and Green Mamba, Cape Cobra, Forest Cobra, Snouted Cobra, and Gabon adder. In addition, the country has recently been facing a critical shortage of snake antivenom treatment, which has caused alarm among locals and medical experts.
South African entrepreneur John Hume has been on a decadeslong mission to save the white rhino from extinction. Hume’s private farm, a conservation area for rhinos for 30 years, houses 2,000 of these majestic creatures. However, factors such as poaching and climate change have made it possible for Hume to continue with funding. As a result, he has decided to auction off his farm and its rhinos in the hopes that a new owner will continue his conservation efforts.
South Africa’s food system is in crisis. Once a country that produced abundant food, today, it faces severe challenges in providing access to healthy and nutritious foods for its people. The food system is plagued by inequalities rooted in colonialism and capitalism, with most of the population unable to afford a healthy diet.
For almost six years, South African paramedic Gerco van Deventer has been held captive by a splinter AlQaeda group in Mali. The story of his abduction is a tale of tragedy, resilience, and hope. It is also a story about the complexities of negotiating for the release of hostages in a world where violence and extremism continue to threaten the lives and liberties of innocent people.
Aksana Matokazi, a young actress from Brackenfell, has recently made South Africa proud by being selected to represent the country in the World Championships of Performing Arts held in Los Angeles. Her journey to this prestigious event has been a story of hard work, dedication, and passion for her craft. Matokazi’s exceptional talent has earned her a spot in the comedy, drama, and singing categories, showcasing her diverse abilities. Her selection is a testament to the quality of South Africa’s performing arts industry and the potential of its young talents.
South Africa’s electricity supply has been in crisis for years, with power cuts an almost daily occurrence for many citizens. The situation has only worsened as Eskom, the country’s leading power supplier, struggles to keep up with demand. The problem is particularly acute during winter when the need for electricity skyrockets due to the colder temperatures. The newly appointed Electricity Minister, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has warned that this winter could be “tough” if Eskom’s grid remains as constrained as it currently is.
The South African National Swimming Championships took place in Gqeberha this week, and it was an incredible showcase of the country’s top swimming talents. The event was a mix of veteran and young swimmers looking to make their mark and qualify for the World Swimming Championships later this year in Fukuoka, Japan.
