South Africa is fighting against illegal mining with a strong team of police, soldiers, and private security. They’ve recently targeted a large group of about 6,500 illegal miners in Ekurhuleni, where hidden tunnels and makeshift homes showed the extent of this underground world. While these operations can push miners away temporarily, true solutions need to address the economic struggles that drive people to these risky jobs. The goal is to create lasting change that not only protects the environment but also offers communities new opportunities for a better life.
Mama Flo is a shining beacon of hope in Cape Town, fighting against period poverty by providing sanitary pads and education. Founded by three friends, Isabella, Melissa, and Laurie, this charity began during the tough times of COVID19 when they realized how many women needed help. They don’t just give out pads; they also hold workshops to teach women about menstrual health and empower local leaders to spread awareness. Mama Flo’s mission is all about making a lasting change, ensuring every woman can manage her period with dignity and confidence. Their work is a beautiful example of how kindness and community can create real impact.
The sudden surge of homelessness in Paarl, Cape Town, due to an influx of 30 individuals from Cape Town has led to the rise of makeshift structures along the Berg River. Efforts are being made by the Drakenstein Municipality, in collaboration with multiple stakeholders, to relocate the homeless individuals and sanitize the affected areas. The municipality is adopting a more compassionate and sustainable approach to address homelessness in a comprehensive manner, including the establishment of an overnight shelter. The goal is to create a safe and supportive environment that offers access to essential services for the homeless individuals.
The community meetings held by the Cape Peninsula Baboon Management Joint Task Team aim to cocreate viable solutions specific to each locality, with community members actively participating in proposing solutions. Attendees will also receive essential information on baboon populations, proposed interventions, and implementation strategies. The initiative reflects a proactive and collaborative approach to sustainable baboon management, striking a balance between human settlement and wildlife conservation.
South Africa is facing an energy crisis with frequent blackouts and load shedding. Public sentiment is turning against Eskom, accusing them of corruption and mismanagement. Spain’s Iberdrola demonstrates the challenges and reforms needed for a transition to renewable energy. South Africa needs audacious decisions and innovative solutions to restructure the energy sector for a sustainable future.
Water is an indispensable resource for the survival of all living beings. In South Africa, water quality has been a concern for both residents and authorities. Recently, Senzo Mchunu, the Minister of Water and Sanitation, presented the Interim Blue, Green, and No Drop Watch Reports that assess water quality, wastewater management, water conservation, and demand management.
On May 18, 2023, Cape Town made history with the launch of its first Urban Waste Management (UWM) Innovation Expo. The event aimed to bring together the latest sustainable waste management solutions, addressing the increasing need for innovative methods to tackle the city’s waste challenges.
The current energy crisis in South Africa has forced citizens to consider alternative energy sources to minimize the impact of power outages on their daily lives. In response to this issue, Western Cape Premier Alan Winde proposed incentivizing solar energy installations for both homeowners and businesses during the 10th Energy Digicon.
Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu recently visited residents of Big Five Hlabisa Municipality in uMkhanyakude District to discuss the ongoing efforts to restore their water supply. The Minister aimed to assess the progress of refurbishment and upgrading of water schemes in Big Five Hlabisa and Mtubatuba local municipalities. These efforts primarily focused on communities facing significant water challenges in the district.
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.
In March 2021, animal rights groups in South Africa were outraged over the shooting and paralyzing of a young baboon named Maggie. She was part of the CT2 troop, a group of Chacma baboons that inhabit the Cape Peninsula. The incident highlights the ongoing issue of humanwildlife conflict, where the interests of animals and humans collide.