In South Africa, the battle over social grants is heating up as many people are getting denied the help they desperately need. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is facing backlash for its strict rules and a rise in grant denials, which some say hurt the most vulnerable citizens. Groups like PayTheGrants are pushing back, claiming these denials violate people’s rights, and they are taking the fight to court. As the tension grows, the fate of many families hangs in the balance, highlighting a struggle for survival amidst a complex web of policies and economic challenges.
In Cape Town, a vibrant call for fair housing is echoing through the streets as activists demand the use of the Tafelberg site for social housing. Hundreds gathered outside Premier Alan Winde’s residence, urging him to be open about R500 million set aside for housing, a plea fueled by a history of injustice. The protesters, undeterred by legal obstacles, continue their fight for a better future, highlighting the city’s deeprooted struggles with housing and inequality. Through their determination and unity, they showcase a community’s dream for a more just and equitable Cape Town.
In South Africa, a heated debate is brewing over the National Minimum Wage (NMW). The Democratic Alliance (DA) worries that raising wages could lead to more job losses, especially for young and lowskilled workers. On the other side, COSATU pushes for a wage increase to fight poverty and make life fairer for workers. This clash reflects deep economic struggles and a long history of inequality, making the future of wages a critical issue for many people in the country.
A bright new hope for justice has emerged in South Africa as a recent court ruling changes the way consent is viewed in cases of genderbased violence. The Pretoria High Court declared parts of the Sexual Offences Act unconstitutional, shifting the responsibility of proving consent from victims to the accused. This breakthrough aims to better protect victims and ensure fairness in the justice system. With the backing of the Embrace Project, this ruling represents a significant step forward in the fight against genderbased violence, igniting a powerful movement towards equality and justice in the nation. As South Africa navigates this crucial moment, there is a renewed call for change that champions the rights and dignity of all.
On a seemingly ordinary day in Glencairn, tragedy struck when Ben Tuzee was brutally murdered during a robbery while helping his niece, Kaele. The community came together in an incredible show of strength, rushing to help the injured and supporting each other through their grief. As the legal battle unfolded, brave Kaele faced her trauma to identify the attackers, highlighting the power of resilience. Ben’s story serves as a reminder of life’s fragility, igniting a collective quest for justice and healing in the hearts of those he left behind. Through this heartwrenching tale, the spirit of community shines bright, proving that even in darkness, hope can emerge.
This article showcases five nonprofit organizations in Cape Town that support the city’s youth in various ways, including providing safety nets, therapy, counseling, recreational and spiritual growth, and more. These organizations, including the Cape Town Child Welfare Society and the Lavender Hill Sports and Recreation Foundation, play a vital role in protecting the youth from harmful street influences and enhancing their lives. As Youth Day approaches, these organizations symbolize the collective effort towards change, progress, and hope for a brighter future for Cape Town’s youth.
Justice Yvonne Mokgoro was an extraordinary jurist, activist, and academic who was the first black woman to serve on the Constitutional Court Bench. She embodied the ubuntu philosophy, stressing the interdependence of humanity and advocating for social unity. Her legacy endures, inspiring hope for a world where human dignity, freedom, and equality form the bedrock of society. Justice Mokgoro’s impact was not limited to the courtroom, as she served on various boards and councils and incorporated a human rights perspective into the law as chairperson of the South African Law Reform Commission.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and its leader Julius Malema are facing a lawsuit worth R1 million over allegations of hate speech. The complainant claims that remarks made by Malema and other party members were directed at him, resulting in his selfimposed exile. The South African Human Rights Commission has joined the lawsuit, which will be presented as a civil action before Judge Mark Sher in the Cape Town Equality Court. The lawsuit highlights the tension between politics, social justice, and personal rights in South Africa.
Ms. Violet Siwela was an esteemed public servant in South Africa, who passed away unexpectedly on January 18, 2024. Her career was marked by an unwavering commitment to public service, demonstrated through a variety of roles she held throughout her life. Ms. Siwela was a champion of social justice, advocating for education, healthcare, food security, and adequate housing. Her legacy of selfless service will continue to inspire and resonate with those who knew her.
Northern Cape in South Africa is undertaking a historic housing project worth around R1 billion, aiming to build over 4,000 homes in 12 to 18 months across different regions. The project prioritizes vulnerable groups like the elderly, people with disabilities, and childled households, and also targets individuals who earn an income but don’t qualify for subsidized housing or bank loans. It seeks to encourage economic growth and empowerment of women and youthowned businesses while correcting historical injustices of land and home ownership. The project has secured funding from various sources and promises rigorous monitoring to ensure highquality standards.
On December 5, 2023, the South African National Assembly passed several landmark bills that reinforce independent institutions, advance social justice, and protect the nation’s youth and agricultural lands. Significant legislative reforms include the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Amendment Bill, Independent Police Investigative Directorate Amendment Bill, Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill, National Youth Development Agency Amendment Bill, and Preservation and Development of Agricultural Land Amendment (PDAL) Bill. These changes represent a progressive legislative landscape that reflects the government’s commitment to meeting the nation’s evolving needs.
In the bustling core of Cape Town, Central Methodist Church, located in the lively Greenmarket Square, has been a longstanding symbol of endurance and optimism. Pastor Alan Storey has overseen the institution, transforming the church from a simple place of worship into a hub of social activism, advocating for societal transformation and justice.
Siya Kolisi, a renowned rugby player from South Africa, is committed to philanthropy and raising awareness about genderbased violence. He uses his influence to inspire positive change in his community, rather than turning to politics. Kolisi’s dedication stems from personal experience, as his aunt and mother suffered from abuse. He believes in the healing power of conversation and has used his success in sports to unite people across his country. Ultimately, Kolisi’s unwavering commitment to social justice and community welfare makes him an inspirational figure both on and off the rugby grounds.
Rachel Kolisi, a fitness influencer from South Africa, is committed to social justice and has founded the Kolisi Foundation with her husband Siya Kolisi. The foundation aims to uplift the disadvantaged and has partnered with the Saartjie Baartman Centre to combat genderbased violence. Rachel has created Power2You bags to empower women and children with tools to resist GBV, symbolizing a transition from victimhood to survivorship and activism. Her tireless work highlights the impact of empathy and compassion in creating a more fair world and shows that joint efforts can tackle societal problems.
Clint Abrahams, an architect, lecturer, and PhD candidate at the University of Cape Town (UCT), has received the prestigious 2022 Social Responsiveness Award for his work in the Bong’s Inn project. The award was established in 2009 to recognize work that contributes significantly to South Africa’s cultural, economic, political, scientific, and social domains.
On 24th July, Deo Kato embarked on a historic journey to become the first person to run from Cape Town to London, covering 14,570 km in 381 days and 53,400 m of elevation. Kato’s journey traverses deserts, grasslands, and everything in between, as he seeks to raise awareness for racial injustice and inequality.