The Identikidz project in Cape Town provides waterproof wristbands with unique numbers to children at beaches, which are logged with the child’s name, guardian’s name, and contact details. This creates a protective web around each participant and connects the child to their guardian even in busy beaches and crowded coasts. Since its launch in December 2023, the project has tagged over 85,916 children and facilitated 263 reunions, demonstrating the community’s embrace of the project and their shared dedication to child safety. The project will expand to even more beaches in January 2024.
Cape Town has a range of fun and educational activities for children during the summer. The Recreation and Parks Department has organized over 130 locations for children to play, socialize and make new friendships. With activities such as arts and crafts workshops, film screenings, and puppet theatre, Cape Town is turning the whole city into a playground to keep children occupied and stimulated during their school break.
Muizenberg’s surf community recently hosted the Wave Challenge, an event celebrating accessible leisure and collective effort. The event engaged over 40 surfers, 120 volunteers, and emphasized the importance of collaboration and reciprocal aid. The Roxy Davis Foundation funded the induction of 30 new adaptive surfers and plans to provide six surf therapy sessions each, highlighting the transformative power of surfing and Cape Town’s dedication to creating accessible and inclusive environments. The event was a powerful testament to the strength of community, inclusivity, and the transformative power of surfing.
The ArtsAbility Festival at Cape Town’s Artscape Theatre Centre celebrates diversity and inclusivity by showcasing performers with disabilities. The festival offers workshops, conferences, and theatre performances to give a stage to all participating talents. Structural changes at Artscape ensure an inclusive and accessible arts environment, enriching the comprehensive artistic experience for all visitors. The festival aligns with the seventh African Network for EvidencetoAction in Disability (AfriNEAD) Conference, reflecting a dedication to fostering inclusivity.
The City of Cape Town is taking significant steps to combat HIV and TB by implementing new policies and guidelines, such as Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) and PreExposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) to motivate people to evaluate their HIV status and offer alternatives for those at risk. The City’s approach focuses on social, biomedical, and behavioural aspects and serves as a model for other cities. The City has seen a substantial increase in HIV selftests, and prevention strategies aim to reduce the untested population. The City’s dedication to combating HIV and TB goes beyond biomedical and behavioural approaches and addresses the social determinants of health.
The Durbanville Rose Exhibition on November 11th at the Durbanville Rose Garden in Cape Town is a mustsee event for anyone who loves roses. With over 5,000 rose varieties on display, guests can lose themselves in the beauty of these breathtaking flowers. The event also includes an initiative to preserve antique roses, a recap from the annual rose care pruning day, and a chance for attendees to refine their gardening abilities. This is a complimentary event that promises to be an unforgettable experience for all.
The Langa Sports Complex in South Africa is undergoing a R4 million renovation project aimed at fostering community development and athletic prowess. The initiative by the City’s Recreation and Parks Department includes upgrades to fencing, field rehabilitation, and maintenance plan, with the aim of establishing a secure and accessible environment for sports and recreation. The project serves as a significant investment in Langa’s future and sporting success, with the complex boasting a rich legacy of nurturing national athletes, including Thabo Mngomeni, Themba Bavuma, Thami Tsolekile, and Sinazo Mcatshulwa.
Cape Town’s Youth Mental Health Initiative is a groundbreaking programme designed to inform young people about mental health, combat stigma and discrimination, and offer a safe environment for those in need. The programme is being implemented in schools, starting with grade 11 students at Mountview High School in Hanover Park. City Health clinics provide mental health services, and helpline numbers are available for those who require assistance. By educating and supporting the youth, the initiative aims to empower them to become resilient leaders who prioritize mental health and contribute to a healthier society.
The Mother City Exhibition in Cape Town showcases the local artistic talent of 18 emerging artists, highlighting the connection between the city’s environment and their creative expressions. Curated by Zimasile Mjokozeli, the exhibition offers a meditative space for guests to explore the interplay between artists and the city. The initiative not only enriches local culture but also provides skill development and networking opportunities for artists with limited resources, fostering a sense of unity and community.
Cape Town’s libraries have become sanctuaries and resource hubs for matric learners preparing for their final exams. They offer a safe environment for studying, study guides, past exam papers, and matric support groups. The libraries have adapted to meet the evolving needs of matric learners and provide them with the resources and space they need to succeed. It is crucial for communities to safeguard these vital establishments and ensure their continued existence for future generations.
The Delft Library in Cape Town has won an award for its innovative Gaming Programme, which encourages young visitors to complete reading or homework sessions in return for playing video games. The programme has not only increased library attendance, but also helped to reduce antisocial behaviour by reigniting a passion for reading among young people. The success of the initiative has seen it adopted by libraries across the area, and serves as a reminder of the power of innovation and community spirit to transform traditional institutions.
Cape Town is gearing up for the festive season by launching a second wave of lifeguard recruitment for both swimming pool and beach lifeguards. The recruitment campaign runs until October 2, with the swimming season starting at the end of September 2023 and ending in April 2024. Lifeguards play a crucial role in ensuring a safe and enjoyable summer season for visitors to Cape Town’s aquatic attractions. The lifeguard recruitment process involves an intensive physical assessment to ensure only the most skilled and capable individuals are entrusted with the essential task of protecting lives.
Cape Town, a city renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich history, is making significant strides in addressing homelessness within its bustling streets. Recently, Mayor Geordin HillLewis presided over the inauguration of the newly expanded wing of the Haven Night Shelter on Napier Street in Cape Town’s Central Business District (CBD). This achievement signifies a crucial milestone in the city’s continued efforts to assist those living without homes.
The Social Development and Early Childhood Development Department of the City of Cape Town launched the Rapid Employment and Development Initiative (READI CT) in 2021. This program aims to empower young individuals by offering them learning opportunities and enhancing their skills. By increasing their employability, READI CT seeks to foster meaningful contributions to the community.
The ongoing taxi strike has led to chaos and violence, resulting in the closure of several clinics and libraries across the metro. Despite the presence of staff members at their workplaces, threats and intimidation from masked individuals have led to the closure of eight clinics. The Brown’s Farm Library in Philippi was also vandalized and looted, leaving the facility nonoperational until further notice.
Supporting Working Mothers: Encouraging Breastfeeding-Friendly Workplaces in Cape Town
To mark World Breastfeeding Week, the Health Department of Cape Town has launched an outreach programme aimed at promoting the benefits of breastfeeding and encouraging workplaces to adopt policies that support nursing mothers. As part of this initiative, discussions were held at In2Food, a company based in Strand, about workplace policies, creating breastfeedingfriendly environments, and the advantages of breastfeeding.