Young people from Makhaza and the surrounding areas gathered near Somerset Taxi Rank in Makhaza on Saturday 17 May during the youth awareness campaign organised by Makhaza Youth Desk and the Makhaza officers.
The aim was to empower and motivate them to stay focused.
Member of Makhaza Youth Desk, Nosipho Dyantyi described the event as a platform for young people to express themselves. She said it was the first time the station conducted such an event.
“We were discussing issues related to the youth in our precinct such as teenage pregnancy, gender-based violence, crime, substance abuse, unemployment etc.
“We noticed that the majority of young people are affected by these social issues. We wanted to hear from them and see where we can assist,” she said, adding that there were people who came all the way from Gugulethu and some parts of Khayelitsha.
Dyantyi said the aim is to unite young people so they can speak in one voice.
Speaking on behalf of the station Sgt Thumeka Mzangwe said they are running various programmes concerning youth in the precinct.
“We found that most of them are getting involved in these bad things because of depression or peer pressure that they receive from home or the community.
“Some of them completed their degrees but are not working. Others are dating older men because they need money,” said Mzangwe.
She stated that various stakeholders are working tirelessly to assist those who are facing these challenges.
Mzangwe said they them to rehabilitation centres. They also offer counselling and li-
Young people inspired
aise with courts.
“We encourage them to focus on their studies and stay away from wrongdoing,” she said. One of the young people who attended the event Athini Nkunkwana (27) described the campaign as motivational and offering hope.
He described it as part of sharing ideas among participants.
Nkunkwana stated that it was hard for them to get jobs, especially when they did not have any experience.
“I completed my education course in 2023 in Walter Sisulu University, Eastern Cape.
I applied to various schools with no luck. It is frustrating, especially when you see your peers who were in school with you progressing. That is why some of them end up consuming alcohol,” explained Nkunkwana, adding that taking substance abuse is not a solution.
Makhaza Youth Desk coordinator Yonela Mbongo addressing the young people during the event. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Send us your views. Note, only text messages will be published. What is discussed in this corner remains here.
Thulani.magazi@media24.com WhatsApp on 083 721 7648.
I’m not poor, either rich. I am an ordinary South African who survives from hand to mouth. I am a patriot.
I wave the country’s flag with pride and sing our national anthem with contentment. At times I shed a tear when our national anthem reverberates through stadia at major sporting events. I value our currency although it’s worth nothing compared to the Pound, Dollar and the Euro. I cherish all our national symbols, languag-
es and cultures. I admire the diversity of our nation and the resilience of its citizens. We’ve been through many things together as a nation and came out stronger on the other side of our struggles.
We are like gold that goes through the fire and comes out shining bright.
These have nothing to do with the government but they are what sets us apart as South Africans. I stand boldly in front of other nations and say: “I am a South African’’.
Nothing, I mean nothing will change my mind about this country and my loyalty to it. I’d rather be part of a team that seeks solutions to our ongoing challenges. I want my kids to proudly say they are “South Africans” when they get older and pass this on to their children.
Being a South African forms part of my identity and this became crystal clear when I spoke to my black American confidante, Charles. He believes his roots are in Ghana but knows nothing about the country. His dream is to visit Ghana and hopefully find some of his relatives. Charles is not proudly American although he was born and raised in Los Angeles. He believes slavery deprived him of his real identity.
All this played in my mind recently as I witnessed a group of 59 white South African refugees being paraded in the United States of America (USA), waving the flags of their adopted nation after touching down at Dulles International Airport. They all heeded a call by Donald Trump to accept refugee status in that country based on lies.
These white refugees know truly well that there is no genocide in SA. There is no killing of white people by black people in our nation. We embrace each other’s beliefs and culture. We laugh and cry together.
Most importantly, we are all affected by crime. There are no targeted killings of a certain race or group of people.
A question arose in my mind, why would someone leave the comfort of his home and sacrifice everything they had worked hard for to be a refugee in another country? What would it take for me to walk away from South Africa?
No amount of money or lies would prompt me to sacrifice my origin or South African citizenship to be a displaced person in another country.
Only a deep-rooted hatred of all or some of the above.
Well done boys, finally AFCON champions
The standard of South African football is getting better daily. Our u-20 team is testament to this. The boys were recently crowned the u-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champions after beating Morocco 1-0 in the final held at the Cairo International Stadium in Egypt on Sunday 18 May.
I must confess that I was very impressed with the way Amajita, as our u-20 national soccer team is popularly known, played in the final.
They made history in the football fraternity by winning the tournament for the first time. Our teams used to be walkovers but that has since changed. It was the first time I watched them play and I didn’t know most of the players.
Mfundo Vilakazi was the only player I knew.
I think something positive is brewing at the South African Football Associa-
A journo’s voice
- Unathi Obose -
tion (Safa) and within the Premier Soccer League (PSL) and we need to keep it up.
Could it be that the appointment of Gayton McKenzie as our Sports, Arts and Culture, contributed to the positive outcomes we are witnessing?
If that is the case, I believe we need to give credit where it’s due.
McKenzie is the kind of a guy who walks the talk. He has been vocal since taking
over and is supportive of all our teams. All we need is to maintain our standard going forward. Without any doubt the future for our younger boys is bright. The u-20 team was well-balanced from the goalkeeper to attack. The way they played was pleasing to the eye. They looked like they had been playing together for a long time.
The coach Raymond Mdaka did a great job with the team. It’s clear that he did his homework thoroughly. Looking at the players like Tylon Smith and Siviwe Nkwali. They were solid at the back, marshalling the defence well. You could see that the players played to win. They were prepared to die for their country. As a country we need to give credit where it’s due. Our football will never be the same. The recognition and the respect that the team will receive internationally is out of this world.
R875,4m budget to fuel Cape Town economy
DESIRÉE RORKE
Supported by a budget of R875,4 million, James Vos, Mayco member for economic growth, has set his priorities out for the upcoming financial year.
His focus remains firmly on building a stronger, more inclusive economy through investment attraction, job creation and business support.
“These priorities are designed to deliver a real, lasting economic impact,” Vos told City Vision’s sister title TygerBurger “Our goal is to make the unemployment queue shorter and ensure businesses – big and small – have the tools and environment in which to thrive.”
Vos noted the budget was shaped in close collaboration with City teams to ensure targeted delivery across key sectors in the short and long term. He told the newspaper there were 1,83 million Capetonians employed, while the official unemployment rate in the city was 21,9%, a favourable comparison to the national unemployment rate of 32,9%.
According to numbers recorded by the City, 86 000 people were employed in the city since 2024. “My goal is to see
double-digit growth in Cape Town’s key sectors, from construction and manufacturing to tourism, property development, business process outsourcing and financial services,” he said. “Why? Because when these sectors grow they expand their operations, increase productivity, and – most importantly – create jobs.
“When businesses thrive so do communities. And when that happens we're cooking with gas. That’s the kind of Cape Town economy I’m working to build, one that's inclusive and geared for growth.”
Key priorities Vos will focus on include expanding air and sea access by additional investment channeled into landing more flights and cruise liners, which are critical to growing Cape Town's connectivity for tourism, trade, and cargo. New experience-based offerings will be rolled out to attract more visitors.
Small businesses and entrepreneurs will be supported with enterprise programmes to create jobs while improving trading spaces such as the one in Bellville Interchange that will receive infrastructure upgrades to give traders functional spaces to operate in. In Wallacedene a container park was recently built for this purpose. Furthermore, flagship programmes such
James Vos said he will focus on expanding air and sea access. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
as the Jobs Connect programme continue to equip Capetonians with practical skills for high-growth industries such as clothing and textile, marine manufacturing, business outsourcing and technology.
Vos said one of the things he was especially keen to see was more local producers using the Cape Trade Portal, a City-supported digital platform that connects Cape Town-based exporters with global buyers. “I want to see entrepreneurs and SMMEs grow their customer base beyond South Africa.”
Sewer repairs left unfinished
UNATHI OBOSE
Residents of Samora Machel were left dismayed by incomplete sewerage works in the area due to criminal elements in the community.
Street sewerage-system repairs conducted by the City at Robert Sobukwe and Joe Slovo streets were halted for almost a month owing to extortionate roaming gangs coming along and demanding cash from the contractor.
This was alleged by one resident, speaking on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals, who said more than one group was involved, effectively scaring the contractor off and leaving a smelly, unsightly mess in the middle of the street. The source said motorists had to use alternative routes as a result.
“I understand one group came along and managed to extort money from the contractor, who refused to give when a second group came along demanding money, and now the project just lingers, incomplete. It creates a problem for people living in this street, particularly those who have vehicles.”
The resident said the local community wants the situation investigated and the perpetrators arrested, and called for on-site extortion to be seen as a widespread problem that needs serious addressing.
“This thing (extortion) is all over the country. You get it in the Eastern Cape, Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.”
Another resident, also speaking anonymously, said such extortionate behaviour,
Two died and one injured during shooting in Site B
UNATHI OBOSE
Khayelitsha police are investigating two counts of murder and two of attempted murder following a shooting incident that occurred on Thursday 15 May.
Provincial police spokesperson Sgt Wesley Twigg said the incident occurred at Citabatwe Crescent in Site B.
Two adult males were shot and fatally wounded, one injured and one other escaped unharmed.
“Police found the victims with gunshot wounds to their bodies.
“The two adult males were declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel, while the other victim was taken to a medical facility for treatment.
“The motive for the attack is yet to be
determined.
“The suspects fled the scene and are yet to be arrested,” said Twigg.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal, said they are living in fear after the incident.
He urged the law enforcement agencies not to leave no stone unturned in bring perpetrators to book. He said he heard the victims were in the house when the incident occurred. “I’m not sure what the motive behind the incident was.
“But it is clear that the incident was well orchestrated because the victims were sitting inside the house when the incident occurred,” he said,
He stated that the area is no longer safe as such kinds of incidents are always happening.
Only half of ECDs have water
perpetrated by gangs or groups of thugs affected innocent people.
Ward 33 councillor Lungisa Somdaka confirmed the project was halted because of some criminal elements. But he couldn’t confirm that an exchange of money had taken place. “Two projects had to be halted because of unknown people demanding money from the contractors working there, one in Robert Sobukwe and the other in Joe Slovo Street. The City had to stop both projects for the workers’ safety.” He wasn’t sure when construction would resume.
Too many South African children are unable to wash their hands as only 53% of Early Childhood Development centres (ECDs) have piped water, electricity and flushing toilets, while 8% have none at all.
This is because, despite a record R210 million government pledge to upgrade these centres over the next two years, basic infrastructure remains severely lacking.
With World Hand Hygiene Day celebrated on Monday 5 May, Deb Zelezniak, CEO of the Santa Shoebox Project, warned that South Africa risked undermining the lifesaving power of handwashing unless urgent steps were taken to ensure access to clean, safe water in early-learning spaces.
“Children constantly touch surfaces and
objects, picking up germs as they go,” she explained. “Without proper hand hygiene, those germs can lead to dangerous illnesses like diarrhoea and respiratory infections. Handwashing with soap can cut diarrhoea rates by up to 40% and respiratory infections by up to 25%.”
Beyond health concerns, Zelezniak highlighted the deeper developmental consequences. “Research shows that poor water and sanitation infrastructure hinders a child’s cognitive, language, and motor development, with long-term effects on their educational attainment.”
“No child should fall sick or die simply because there was no water to wash their hands,” she concluded.
The unfinished sewerage works in Robert Sobukwe Street, Samora Machel after workers vacated the site allegedly after extortionists had demanded money from the contractor.
PHOTO: UNATHI OBOSE
LGBTQIA+ people demand recognition
UNATHI OBOSE
Members of the Lesbian Gays Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersexual others and (LGBTQIA+) community held a Khumbulani Pride march at Lwandle on Saturday 17 May, to raise awareness of queer rights in the townships and to remember victims of hate crime, particularly those killed or attacked due to their sexuality.
More than 100 people marched through the streets during this, the 12th annual Khumbulani Pride
Its organiser, Velonia Sidukwa, said beside commemorating LGBTQIA+ victims it was important for the community to have greater visibility in communities. She said such events were important for creating an atmosphere of acceptance and a heightened consciousness.
“We still face the challenge of being dis-
criminated against or rejected. So many of our members are attacked and killed because of their sexual orientation. Sometimes we are discriminated against even at work. We are saying enough is enough!”
Sidukwa urged authorities, particularly police and Law Enforcement to prioritise cases of these brutal attacks against members of the LGBTQIA+ community
Lwandle Police Station spokesperson Sgt Mthokozisi Gama said the station respected everyone’s right to be, and that the station is open to everyone.
“As law-enforcement officers our duty is to protect the community and ensure everyone lives in a safe environment, and this also applies to LGBTQI+ community members.
“We encourage anyone who has a problem or feels his or her rights are being infringed to come alsong and report it to our station.”
Nursing is an abiding passion to care for others, a true calling
KAYLYNNE BANTOM
They are known as the backbone of the health sector and often go beyond the call of duty to ensure patients are taken care of.
For many, the nursing profession is more than just a job but a passion.
International Nurse's Day celebrated annually on 12 May once again paid homage to the thousands of men and women under the theme “Our nurses. Our future. Caring for nurses strengthens economies”.
City Vision’s sister newspaper, People’s Post, spoke to a few nurses to find out what the profession meant to them.
For Noerjan Morkel (57), a clinical nurse practitioner at Lady Michaelis Community Day Centre in Plumstead, nursing others is a divine purpose.
She has been in the field for 37 years.
Her father had his heart set on her becoming a doctor, only to be disappointed; instead, she opted to follow in the footsteps of two of her beloved aunts.
“One if them is currently 68 years old and is still nursing. She retired and is on contract now. Her care and dedication to the profession made me identify with her. I actually initially wanted to do law, but God had other plans for me.”
Morkel believes she was a born nurse.
“Care, compassion, dedication and helping people are all qualities I had that inspired me to become a nurse. My patients make me feel special. Working with people is the best that could’ve ever happened to me, and I go that extra mile for them. I can’t stop thanking God for sending me here.”
Morkel said she proudly wore her epaulettes.
“This was the first year that I felt like it was Nurses’ Day. I felt proud. Just wearing my uniform with my epaulettes makes me feel I deserve to wear it. I am proud of being a nurse. I can boast about myself because I am a good nurse.”
She encouraged nurses to invest in their well-being.
“I take leave when it’s called for and often go and see a counsellor whenever such a service is needed. I have learnt to set boundaries, and I try to exercise a lot.
“I like spending time with family and friends too.”
Aeysha Wagiet is an advanced midwife at Mowbray Maternity Hospital for the past 27 years.
She explained a midwife played a vital role in providing patients with support during childbirth.
“Helping patients with pain relief and being very attentive and explaining each procedure.
“Identifying any problems and managing it as per standard procedures and protocols. I would always inform partners and family and continuously update family members regarding a patient’s condition.
Communication with families is very important to address any fear or anxiety that the family may feel.”
Wagiet believes Nurses’ Day is an opportunity to uplift the nursing profession.
“I focus on my own well-being by ensuring that nursing staff work in a safe environment. I always try to keep my staff motivated to do their best in any situation.”
Rondebosch resident Sesethu Magqashela has been a midwife for two years. His passion for the profession was sparked by an injury during a rugby game.
“The nurses who took care of me inspired me to come out of my depression.”
Magqashela believes the biggest challenge in the health profession today is shortage of staff.
“Shortages of well-trained nurses. After covid I noticed an increase in mental health illnesses.
“You firstly need to be very sure as nursing is not just a job for security. You need to have the passion, the drive, endurance and heart to become a nurse.”
Some of the members of LGBTQI+ community marching on Lwandle streets during Khumbulani Pride event on Saturday 17 May. PHOTO: SUPPLIED.
Ayesha Wagiet is a midwife at Maternity Hospital. Sesethu Magqashela says its about passion.
Koopmans-de Wet House Museum upgrade has started
The Iziko Koopmans-de Wet House Museum is undergoing a major transformation as part of a broader Reimagining Iziko Museums project, which focuses on upgrading, conserving and reinterpreting museum spaces and collections.
Dr Bongani Ndhlovu, Executive Director of Core Functions at Iziko Museums of South Africa, said as part of the Reimagining process furniture and artefacts had been removed from the facility based in Strand Street.
“Facilities and infrastructure as well as conservation work will take place at the Koopmans de Wet House Museum over the next few months.”
He said the museum will maintain its name and continue to offer physical and virtual exhibitions that honour its diverse heritage while training a new generation of heritage professionals.
“We appreciate the fact that the site and museum were developed to preserve the legacy of Koopmans-de Wet and the heritage embedded in it.
“We recognise that that family contributed to the socio-economic life of the Cape. Marie Koopmans-de Wet was an activist in her own right and was passionate about language and painting, those elements of her and her family’s legacy will continue to be honoured.”
Ndhlovu said with this in mind, the
museum is set to host the South African Heritage Hub, a venture that seeks to incorporate the history and heritage of Koopmans-de Wet House as well as the legacy of Marie and her sister Margerette.
He said the museum will continue to operate under that name and will continue to exhibit the narrative of the site.
To that end physical and virtual exhibitions will be developed.
“These will continue to profile various elements of the Koopmans-de Wet contribution to the country’s heritage. The exhibitions will also recognise the role played by the enslaved in the social fabric of the Koopmans-de Wet Museum and the Cape.”
Ndhlovu explained that while the Koopmans-de Wet family worked hard to accumulate their wealth and education, in the cultural life and development of the city the enslaved also worked as masons, carpenters, smiths, tailors, furniture makers and musicians.
To this end the envisaged hub activities will include both heritage and entrepreneurial ventures as the pillars that will continue to inspire the work of the museum, while the next generation of heritage practitioners are being trained.
For more on the Koopman-de Wet House Museum and its role in developing the social fabric of the city, and its reimagining for the future, email info@iziko.org.za
Taxi association happy with the new taxi rank
Taxi bosses in Khayelitsha have welcomed the construction of a taxi rank in Town Two, saying it will transform the industry’s image in the area.
Work, which began at the start of the month, is expected to be completed next year. The facility will offer commuters and taxi drivers shelter.
Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (Codeta) spokesperson Makhosandile Tumana said the move was long overdue, since the organisation has operated from an open field near Embengweni for several years.
“We are so excited about the new development because it gives us an identity. A taxi rank not only helps us, but also com-
muters, who will be safe now.” He said he was grateful to the City for the initiative.
According to Ward 93 councillor Thando Pimpi, the taxi rank is expected to be completed by mid-year next year.
“Currently, the contractor is busy levelling the ground. Soon it will install the underground infrastructure then start the construction. It is expected to have a shelter and toilets for the commuters and offices as well.”
He said construction of the taxi rank doesn’t just belong to his ward but neighbouring areas as well, even though it is regarded as part of ward development. “More jobs will be created for our locals because many people, including companies, will be hired during the construction. They will gain more skills and experience.”
A new taxi rank is under construction at Town Two. PHOTO: UNATHI OBOSE
UNATHI OBOSE
The Koopmans-de Wet House Museum will maintain its name and still offer exhibits and other
events honouring its diverse heritage as upgrades occur.
Conservation-based CBOs score
Following a rigorous evaluation of about 24 applications for City of Cape Town grant funding, received in June last year, grants were awarded by its Water and Sanitation Directorate to 11 community-based organisations in greater Cape Town. They are for initiatives from involving residents in improving river conditions, with measurable outcomes over six months, to behavioural research on what drives positive change in communities to lessen abuse of local water-and-sanitation resources.
Recipient projects cut across a number of categories, including waste-interceptor installations and clearing along heavily-polluted water bodies, to support existing City removal, collection and maintenance standards.· Also, waterway rehabilitation such as community-organised clean-up campaigns to preserve and restore local waterways.· Then there’s social change and awareness by community members who will lead educational outreach, training and host events on water and sanitation issues in their neighbourhoods, and fostering behaviour change in communities away from abusing the immediate environment.
Zahid Badroodien, Mayco member for water and sanitation, recognising the commonalities and their possibilities for integration, said: “By forming meaningful partnerships such as these we amplify our collective reach and impact. Our 11 community champions are innovation drivers and influencers, employing their skills, passion and capabilities in helping to build our City of Hope. We’re excited to see how they encourage others for the benefit of our communities and the environment, which we’re all responsible for preserving.”
Eyabantu Recycling, an awareness and clean-up campaign in Ward 95, Makhaza,
received a City grant for such initiatives as a three-day workshop for informal-settlement leaders and clean-up events involving 120 volunteers.
Another recipient is Cape Peninsula University of Technology, for its Water Warriors Programme, in which 20 trained student volunteers will conduct river and beach clean-ups and deliver environmental education to more than 3 000 learners at primary and high schools.
Another grant, to Mzantsi Planet Projects NPC, is for a clean-up campaign at the Eerste River near Baden Powell Drive, involving 50 volunteers from Mfuleni and Eerste River. There’s also the Visionaries Watch Project, a youth-focused awareness
and clean-up campaign in the informal settlement along the N7 in Dunoon, targeting 100 participants. The South African College for Mathematics, Science and Technology, an academic research project, has begun a project to understand behavioural drivers related to sewer misuse and illegal construction over pipelines in Khayelitsha, engaging more than 500 residents. Ukwindla NPO, a clean-up campaign in Enkanini informal settlement, will engage 100 young people. The Litterboom Project installs interception systems in polluted rivers across Cape Town and a sorting facility that enables recycling-based job creation and supports 11 direct beneficiaries. The Nature Connect Trust, a research project within
the False Bay Nature Reserve, will evaluate the effectiveness of water-hyacinth biocontrol methods across various sites. The Ummati Community Upliftment Foundation, focused on education, awareness and job creation, will engage 300 youth and unemployed individuals in Tafelsig and surrounds. Friends of the Rivers of Hout Bay will expand ongoing waterway rehabilitation, litter removal, conservation and new research of the Hout Bay River corridor. Oasis – Reach for Your Dreams, a cleanup initiative for public spaces, rivers, and beaches from the Lourens River Bridge to Strand Beach in Helderberg, engaging 50 community members including homeless individuals and local youth.
Nelson Mandela mural beacon of hope for Souper Troopers
KAYLYNNE BANTOM
The late statesman Nelson Mandela stood for dignity and humanity, and that is exactly the ethos of the Souper Troopers, a Woodstock-based organisation.
It is fitting then that a new long-imagined mural of Nelson Mandela is now proudly displayed on Souper Troopers’ Humanity Hub, on the corner of Nelson Street.
Souper Troopers works with and advocates for those living on the streets. Its Humanity Hub provides a range of services to help homeless people transform their lives.
The expansive mural was brought to life by the very well-known South African mural artist Stefan Smit.
Kerry Hoffman, founder and executive director of Souper Troopers, said it had been two years in the making. “We moved into this building in August 2022. Since moving in we wanted to find an artist that would see the opportunity to collaborate with us and the work we do as a pro-bono project.
“Since last year we’ve been on this journey figuring out what will be painted and all the permits needed.”
Hoffman said advocating for people to get off the streets is ongoing. “Homeless people who come to us wanting to change are Troopers. Our psycho-social development model (CAST model) addresses the holistic needs of each individual within our ethos of dignity, love and respect, and we are proud to be making a sustainable difference in the lives of so many Troopers."
In recent years, the organisation has developed the successful African Worry Dolls programme, aimed at uplifting Troopers through making of one-of-a-kind miniature dolls from recycled materials. These are sold locally and overseas, helping develop important job skills and generating revenue for Souper Troopers.
According to Hoffman no human being is more worthy to be a beacon of hope for The Humanity Hub than Mandela. “Having him on our building as an abiding symbol
of what we stand for does much to raise the profile of the crucial work we do – raising awareness of the needs of people on the street, who are often neglected, unseen and treated in an undignified way.”
Smit said his inspiration for the mural was to spread joy. “The artwork is something that radiates light and I hope it will put a smile one everyone’s face.” He explained he chose the colours based on the organisation’s ethos, which is to uplift.
This is Smit’s second work of the late statesman, and it has been well-received. “I painted at Londolozi, apparently the place he liked to visit after he was released from prison, so there is a special connection there... There's an element of synchronicity here, such as the fact that the organisation is based on Nelson Street.
“The response from the community has been amazing. I’ve had people stop to admire and share their thoughts of the piece.”
The successful community-based organisations awarded grant funding by the City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate through its implementing agent, the Western Cape Economic Development Partnership (EDP). PHOTO: SUPPLIED
There’s a new mural of Madiba in Cape Town. PHOTO: EF OGLE PRODUCTIONS
On World Asthma Day health experts and global organisations are calling for urgent action to make asthma treatment accessible to all.
With over 250 million people living with asthma globally, the spotlight is on the lack of access to affordable, quality-assured inhaled medicines – a problem that continues to cost lives despite decades of clinical evidence supporting their effectiveness.
The Global Asthma Network (GAN) marked the day with the launch of the Global Asthma Report, patient stories, a collection of first-hand accounts revealing the everyday struggles of people living with asthma. The report highlights the benefits of timely diagnosis and treatment while underscoring the tragic consequences of systemic delays and medicine shortages.
“By prioritising equitable access to medicines and strengthening primary healthcare systems, countries can not only meet global NCD targets but also enjoy signif-
icant economic and social returns,” said José Luis Castro, the World Health Organisation's Director General’s Special Envoy for Chronic Respiratory Diseases.
Locally, City Health in Cape Town reported that between May 2024 and April this year, its clinics issued 8 912 inhalers for acute care and 34 431 for chronic asthma treatment. Despite these efforts, incorrect inhaler use remains one of the most common challenges.
“We are heading into winter, when asthma symptoms typically worsen, so now is the time to make sure that you are protected,” said Francine Higham, Mayco member for community services and health. She added that both adults and children often misuse inhalers, compromising their treatment outcomes.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has included asthma inhalers in its Model List of Essential Medicines and is working through the Global Alliance against
Chronic Respiratory Diseases alongside partners such as GAN, the Forum of International Respiratory Societies, and the Global Initiative for Asthma to strengthen country-level policies. The Forum of International Respiratory Societies has also launched a campaign urging global leaders to invest in solutions that ensure access to inhaled treatments for all.
Dr Sarah Rylance, WHO’s technical lead for chronic respiratory diseases, stressed the importance of collaboration. “Together, we are amplifying critical evidence-based messages and driving progress to ensure that every person with asthma, no matter where they live, can breathe freely,” she said.
As asthma remains the most common chronic illness among children in South Africa, health authorities continue to encourage the public to seek medical guidance, avoid sharing inhalers, and follow proper inhaler techniques. The WHO is
currently updating global asthma treatment guidelines to support governments in strengthening their national response.
CT Entrepreneurial Challenge is an elimination process
The #YouthStartCT Entrepreneurial Challenge is a process of elimination, where contestants have to pitch their existing businesses or business ideas to a judging panel to progress to the next round.
The competition started with an induction session for the 67 qualifying young entrepreneurs, followed by two rounds of training and resultant pitches in the business ideas category.
Participants with existing businesses attended three training sessions and delivered three pitch presentations – the last session was held on Saturday 17 May.
The training and pitch presentations for the existing businesses have been successfully completed, with the final pitch on Saturday.
“I’m very excited to see how this year’s #YouthStartCT Challenge will play out. The contestants have done the hard work, and we thank each and everyone who threw their hats into the ring.
“The challenge not only provides excellent learning opportunities, but also creates a platform for networking and new markets.
“We hope that their commitment, adaptability, and willingness to embrace constructive criticism will pay off
“We are now down to the business end of the competition, and I look forward to the big reveal at our awards evening in June,” said Mayco member for community services and Health, Francine Higham.
The judging panel is in the process of finalising the top performers in the various categories. In the category for existing businesses, the panel will conduct site visits as part of its final deliberations.
The site verification process is to confirm and assess key aspects of the business operations.
The City’s partners in the competition include Workshop17, ORTSA, the V&A Waterfront, False Bay College and Silulo Foundation.
Prizes will be awarded to the winners at a ceremony on Wednesday 11 June.
Participants during a typical presentation.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Urgent Call for Universal Access to Inhaled Treatments. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Nomfundo pushing SA jazz boundaries
NAMHLA MONAKALI
Jazz vocalist, composer and UCT lecturer Nomfundo Xaluva-Dyantyis said her path into jazz wasn't planned; it evolved.
Reflecting on her journey from classical piano prodigy to respected jazz figure on and off the stage, she said: “It took about two to three years before I really started liking jazz. It was an acquired taste, but I immersed myself in the tradition, the artistry, and I fell in love.”
Xaluva-Dyantyis began learning classical piano at age 12 and continued throughout high school.
Her foundation was formal and structured, with exams focused on both piano and voice. “I was a classical-music learner right up to Grade 11 and 12, when something shifted.”
That period coincided with the advent of contemporary South African jazz icons such as Judith Sephuma, Jimmy Dludlu and Musa Manzini, who were emerging from UCT, and their influence was impossible to ignore.
“It was so appealing to me musically,” Xaluva-Dyantyis said. “We were exposed to jazz standards in our school-choir training and it planted a seed.”
In 2001, she enrolled at UCT to study music, not yet knowing she would lean into jazz more fully. “I just knew I wanted to study music at university,” she said. By 2003 she was fully immersed in the jazz programme. “It took time, but once it caught me it just didn’t let go.”
The influence of South African legends such as Miriam Makeba and Sibongile Khumalo, both mentors and muses to her, deepened her connection to the music and gave her a sense of artistic lineage. “They were everything, style, grace, depth. I studied them, listened to them and shaped myself through them.”
But being on stage wasn’t the only dream.
Tumi Morake on at Baxter soon
After years of captivating international audiences, Tumi Morake, South Africa's beloved “First Lady of Comedy”, is making an emotional return to a venue that feels like home: the Baxter Theatre, for a two-week exclusive run as part of the JiVE Cape Town Funny Festival from Tuesday 17 to Sunday 29 June.
In what will be her longest local stage run since relocating to the United States of America (USA), Morake said this comeback isn’t just another gig, it’s personal. “I always feel as if I’m a rock star when I perform at the JiVE Cape Town Funny Festival,” she said. “Cape Town crowds are the perfect mix of sharp, generous and just a little spicy, like a good gatsby.”
Now based in Atlanta, the trailblazing comedian, who made history as the first African woman with a Netflix comedy special, is set to bring her signature blend of bold humour, relatable storytelling and fearless social commentary to one of Cape Town's most iconic stages.
Having graced international stages from New York to London, for her the Baxter Theatre is unlike any other.
“The Baxter has this soul. It’s not just a venue, but a space where we see one another, laugh together, cry if we must and celebrate who we are. Coming back here feels as if I’m hugging an old friend.”
The festival is renowned for delivering top-tier comedy acts from across the globe, and Morake’s return is expected to draw full houses. Audiences can expect fresh
material, reflections on her life in the USA, cultural quirks, motherhood mishaps and the ever-changing social landscape, all delivered with the usual fierce honesty and warmth.
“There’s nothing quite like the sound of laughter in your own language.”
Buy tickets via Webtickets or from the Baxter Theatre box office.
Valley-Omar celebrates 80th birthday of which 50 on stage
NAMHLA MONAKALI
“I never bought into the idea of balance,” Xaluva-Dyantyis pointed out. “I believe it’s an elusive one. I always envisaged having a career in which I could branch out, where performance and education co-existed.”
Well, that vision has been realised. Today, Xaluva-Dyantyis lectures at UCT full-time, performs nationally and has three albums under her belt. She proudly identifies as a practice-based researcher. “A lecturer and performer are not two separate things for me. My art is my research.”
Her return to the Cape Town International Jazz Festival stage this year was emotional, since she hadn’t performed there since 2017. “It felt like a reunion. My students were in the crowd, people were hearing my music for the first time and I performed songs from my latest album, ‘Ndilapha’.
The set paid tribute to her grandmother, daughter, mother and the late Khumalo. It was deeply personal, songs about being a black woman, daughter, mother, wife.”
Between raising a child, dealing with personal loss and completing an MBA during the Covid-19 pandemic, she continued to perform, teach, write, and research.
“At the time I asked myself, ‘What am I even doing’?” she laughs. “But two and a half years later, I was done and teaching part-time. That’s when I knew I wanted to stretch my academic muscle further.”
Now firmly rooted at UCT, she’s as passionate about music education as she is about performance. “We don’t explore the full value of music in the education system, especially at basic levels. Music teaches discipline, punctuality, respect, consistency. These are life skills.”
Her message to aspiring musicians is clear and unwavering:
“Talent is not enough. You have to invest in your craft. You must study. You must work.”
Xaluva-Dyantyis lives what she teaches: a life composed not just in melody, but in intention, perseverance and purpose.
One of South Africa’s most enduring and unsung thespian heroes, Fahruq Ismail Valley-Omar, will celebrate his 80th birthday on 23 May, marking more than five decades in the performing arts, a career filled with memorable stage roles, television appearances and international film credits, yet surprisingly has no major industry award to his name.
Valley-Omar, a stalwart of South African theatre since the 1970s, has starred in productions ranging from Shakespeare to contemporary political dramas. Despite his prolific body of work, colleagues and fans alike express dismay at his lack of formal recognition. “It’s a shame that someone with such talent and consistency hasn’t been honoured with an award,” said longtime supporter and writer Belinda Jack-
son.
Valley-Omar began acting in his early 20s, performing in community theatre at a time when apartheid laws restricted cultural expression. Undeterred, he became a voice of resistance through art, touring the country and later working abroad. His resumé boasts performances in local classics and international titles, and his work in advertisements, often remembered by older audiences, brought his face into many South African homes.
“Mr Valley-Omar is more than an actor,” said theatre director Lindiwe Morris. “He’s a living archive of our struggle, creativity and resilience.”
Eternally modest about his legacy, Valley-Omar continues to engage with theatre as mentor and script adviser. Friends and former collaborators are planning a celebration to honour him privately.
Jazz vocalist, composer and UCT lecturer Nomfundo Xaluva-Dytantjies said her path into jazz wasn’t planned; it evolved.
Tumi Morake is heading to the Jive Cape Town Funny Festival.
Fahruq Ismail Valley-Omar is among the cast of Ian von Memerty’s musical ‘Fiela’s Child’, based on the well-known Daleen Mathee novel. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Luzuko happy with the new kit and computers
UNATHI OBOSE
Learners and staff from Luzuko Primary School from Gugulethu were thrilled after they received new netball kit and five computers donated by the Lokshin Pioneers in partnership with Old Mutual on Wednesday 21 May.
Lokshin Pioneers is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) that works closely with disadvantaged communities to assistance where necessary.
Speaking on behalf of the school, Sheila Feni praised both Lokshin Pioneers and Old Mutual for their generosity. She said the school didn’t have the kit.
“We were the only school in Gugulethu that didn’t have a netball kit. We believe the new kit will boost their self-esteem. And they will have an identity,” said Feni. She stated that they were surprised with
the new computers as they didn’t expect them.
“Lokshin Pioneers surprised us with the computers. We only knew about the kit,” she said.
The founder of Lokshin Pioneers Sithembele Ntaba stated that they were approached by the school asking for a netball kit early this year.
He said they went around asking for donors to assist until Old Mutual came to the rescue.
“These learners are our future leaders.
I felt there's a need to do something to fulfil their dream. Since we used to work with Old Mutual, we approached them for help. We also went for the extra mile and brought the computers,” he said.
Ntaba stated that as an organisation they try to ensure that there is no child left behind.
HERBALISTS 1435 ARE U WAITING
DLAMINI Ngidume kakhulu Nezinkinga zemali Imali engena ebank account. Imali engena endlini esikhwameni sakho uphinde uyisebenzinse same day ngiya deriver noma kuphi Khokha Sekuphumelele 063 936 6492
Learners holding the new computers. BACK ROW: Old Mutual sales manager, Bongani Zulu and founder of Lokshin Pioneers Sithembele Ntaba.
Some of the learners sitting down wearing a new netball kit. While school and Old Mutual staff members and Lokshin Pioneers members standing behind. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED.
UGQIRHA
Sport
Champ in timely move
Grant Goldschmidt, originally from Mitchells Plain and now residing in Goodwood, former SA beach volleyball champion, is now plying his trade as a beach volleyball commissioner for the Cape Town Volleyball Federation and coaching two ladies teams at the University of Cape Town. He retired in 2022 after the Beach Pro Tour held in the Mother City.
“In August last year I was approached by the Federation to assist as they needed someone with expertise to make opportunities available for everyone in the Cape Town area to play beach volleyball. We competed in nine events from October until March over the summer season and we had a successful beach league, but the indoor-season has started and we are currently competing in the indoor league,” he says.
“At ETA College I am not only a lecturer but also an academic manager of 10 to 14 academics, responsible for timetables or anything related to academics, like quality of teaching, etc. In 2023, the year after I retired, there was
an offer at UCT to coach the ladies volleyball team and I have been contracted the past three years. We’ve done well, managing to make the top four and this year we finished third with a bronze medal. UCT is also hosting the University Games from (Thursday) 29 May until (Wednesday) 4 June where teams from universities countrywide will come down to play in the National USSA Tournament,” he says.
Goldschmidt started his volleyball career at the age of 19, went to study at UWC and played for the university.
“While studying at UWC, I played in three World Student Games and five All Africa Games from 2003 until 2011. I also played in one World Championship, two Commonwealth Games and the Olympics in 2012. In 2003, I made my international South African senior debut, retired at the Elite Tournament in 2022 here in Cape Town.
“The president of the Federation co-opted me as the vice-president after someone stepped down and was satisfied with my performances. We are now in our fifth weekend of our indoor tournament. As vice-president, I am mostly consulting and establishing commissions. I am also a technical vice-president and admin vice-president, responsible for
upskilling the coaches, building a capacity for our coaching and referees, the quality of our events and make sure our fixtures are good and setting up disciplinary commissions with any issues that might come up,” he says.
Goldschmidt is becoming a father for the second time at the end of July and is part of the worship team at Grace Church in Thornton. “Playing music is to destress from my busy life and get peace for my soul. With my wife being in the last stretch of her pregnancy, I am taking care of the fouryear-old taking him to creche and picking him up before I attend meetings at the Federation and coaching the females at UCT on contract three time a week for the league. I am a fulltime lecturer at the ETA College, besides being a beach commissioner and vice-president at the Federation, with all things volleyball-related in the Cape Town area,” Goldschmidt says.
Hammies beat log leaders
Carlton Goodman of Goodwood RFC can only admire the spectacular dive in the corner by Tauriq Gamieldien of Hamediehs as he scores a try during a WPRU Super B match played at Vygieskraal on Saturday 17 May. Hammies beat the log leaders 34-32 in front of a packed crowd.
PHOTO: RASHIED ISAACS
CAPE TOWN VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION
Grant Goldschmidt in action for SA. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
AVRIL FILLIES
Jarrod Moroole of Cape Town Spurs is consoled by the CEO of the club Alexi Efstathiou after losing on the final day of the First Division to Durban City at Athlone stadium on Sunday 18 May. Spurs will now ply their trade in the regional second division from next season after the 1-0 defeat to the first division champions. PHOTO: RASHIED ISAACS
