Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (Codeta) is still mum regarding the Mfuleni taxi driver who allegedly threatened to rape and kill a lesbian couple at the taxi rank on Monday 17 March.
Codeta public relations officer (PRO) Makhosandile Tumana confirmed that they were aware of the allegations but the matter was still under investigation. “We heard about it and we asked the working committee, mainly from Mfuleni to Strand route, to investigate it and come back to us (regional office) with the report and we will take it from there. We are still waiting for that report. But, I must state it clearly that as Codeta, we abide by the country’s constitution. We respect everyone regardless of the gender or sexual orientation,” said Tumana.
However, one of the victims Anele Ligunya declared that based on their meeting held at the taxi rank on Thursday 20 March, the driver was fired and the taxi bosses apologised to them.
This incident caused an outcry after Ligunya posted on social media on Monday 17 March. She wrote that the taxi driver threatened to rape and kill them. She warned that if anything that happened to them people must know it is Mfuleni’s taxi driver. She stated that she didn’t open the case against the suspect after coming to an agreement with the taxi bosses. Ligunya said she together with a group of LGBTQIA+ community reported the incident to the Codeta offices in Site C on Tuesday 18 March. She said she was pleased with the outcome of the meeting as the suspect was fired.
Elaborating on what happened, Ligunya said she was at Mfuleni taxi rank accompanying her girlfriend (Sinethemba Goba) who was going to Strand. She said they
Mfuleni taxi driver ‘fired’
were sitting in a taxi with other commuters waiting for it to be full when they were allegedly insulted by the alleged taxi driver. “I was sitting in a taxi with my girlfriend and two other commuters. We were sitting on the seat behind the driver. Our sin was to put our feet on top of the engine.
The driver came and opened the door and asked us why we put our feet on top of the engine. He said don’t we see that we are messing it up?” explained Ligunya, adding that they apologised and cleaned it.
She said since she was accompanying her girlfriend she had to go because the taxi was about to leave.
“When I opened the door, as I was going out, the driver asked me why I opened the door like that. He told me that going
to break it. I asked him how I am going to break it because people always open it when they go out.
“That is when he started insulting and threatening to rape and kill me,” said the distraught Ligunya, adding that other drivers who were standing nearby laughed at that.
She accused the driver of being homophonic. Ligunya said she managed to take the taxi registration number and left.
“When I arrived at home, I called my girlfriend to find out if she arrived safely. She told me that when they were at N2 near Engen garage the taxi driver stopped for someone who was hitch-hiking. She said while the taxi was waiting for the person to board, the driver told her that he will
drag her out of the taxi and rape her now and after that he will kill her,” narrated Ligunya, adding that her girlfriend was traumatised.
Renowned community activist Funeka Soldaat, who was also part of the meeting at Site C Taxi Rank, said it was shocking to have such kind of incidents in this day and age.
She said the worse was to insult a person in public.
“It is sad and traumatising to have such people in our community, especially in the taxi industry where they are dealing with different people daily. It is really shocking for him to make such serious threats in a society where gays and lesbians are killed every so often,” said Soldaat.
Anele Ligunya together with her girlfriend Sinethemba Goba (wearing white t-shirts sitting in front) while other members of LGBTQIA+ community and taxi bosses standing.
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Many of us, those who are privileged to work, wake up daily, in some instances not because we like it, but to put bread on the table.
Uthe private sector, especially top management, will confirm time is not everything. The bottom line matters. This refers to the profits and business sustainability. These ensure longevity and business growth.
The same cannot be said of the government or civil servants. Our taxes sustain most government departments. Yes, there are departments that are income generators. However, zeal among workers in the private and public sectors is not the same. There are many dysfunctional government departments and state-owned enterprises (SOEs), yet employees still demand salary increases and bonuses, unthinkable in the private sector.
I salute the many doctors who work at state hospitals. I had the opportunity to see what they go through daily in trying and at times dangerous conditions. These are individuals who deserve salary increases. They work in unfashionable areas, serving our communities with passion and commitment.
ndibhideke lusuku lwe Valentines. Unkosikazi uyayazi ukuba ndimthanda kangakanani, kwaye akufuneki mali okanye ukuba ndide ndimthengele into ukuze ayazi lonto.
This requires maximum output, commitment to the course and dedication. Maximum output means we do our best and put our best foot forward. We strive to deliver, regardless, and we work until we cannot do it anymore.
Such commitment means we put our hearts into what we do to ensure we produce the desired outcomes. Dedication means we set time aside to focus on the task at hand. These are particularly fundamental for any business to succeed. Those in
In most companies employees get increases and bonuses based on performance or through individual evaluation in the form of their KPAs (Key Performance Areas) or KPIs (Key Performance Indicators); they earn it depending on their score. This is also a driving force for some employees. People know they will not get recognition if they do not deliver or achieve certain scores. Suggest this to our government colleagues and there will be blood on the floor.
Siyathandana, kwaye naye uyayazi lonto. Uthando kukunikeza inkxaso omnye komnye ngalo lonke ixesha, ngamaxesha obumnandi namaxesha obunzima. Kukunikeza ingqinisekiso yokuba izinto zizakulanga xa kunzima. Uthando lingokukhathalelana. Xa uthanda umntu awenzeli isizwe, wenzela wena nalowo uthandana naye. Yiyo lento ndifika
The government is there to render services, yet this is often appalling, to say the least. It is rare to hear people complimenting government departments or services. Yes, there are individuals who go the extra mile, but also rotten potatoes that must go to waste.
The City of Cape Town is often praised for its efficiency, and compared to other municipalities across the country it is found to be doing an excellent job. However, I have found it too is not immune to inefficiency. In the second half of last year I formally lodged a complaint about my neighbour’s illegally-constructed structure. This involved numerous calls and emails to City officials, yet none of them even bothered to respond. Yet they always promise swift action yet, to date, nothing has come of my express grievance. The next move will be to escalate the matter to line managers. Why must we always fight for what is due to us? How long must this go on? Why can’t we receive services without first having to raise our voices? And these are people who will be demanding increases and bonuses; why must someone get an increase or a bonus if they cannot do their work?
Ndithe xa ndigqitha kwenye yeevenkile kutsha nje ndaqaphela ukuba kuxhonywe izinto ngezinto ze Valentines, kwaye amaxabiso athande ukuxhoma.
Lonto ithi kuza kufuneka ndithathe imali, nto leyo ethande ukunqongophala, ndiyothenga into ye Valentines. Umbuzo wam ngowokuba ingaba kunyanzelekile kusini na ukuba ndiyithenge lento okanye liphulo nje loosomashishini lokuphuhlisa amashishini abo. Ngokowam umbono akukho sinyanzeliso kulento, into ebalulekileyo kukuba sisebenzise isenti nesenti yendlu yethu ukuhlangabezana neengxaki zendlu yethu. Iingxaki zam, zingxaki zakhe, naye ingxaki zakhe ziingxaki zam. “Mna ndiyeyona ngxaki yakho inkulu,” undikhumbuza ngelitshoyo lonke ixesha xa ingathi ndikhabela kude ekusebenzisaneni nayo. Nanjengoko sisiya kwiValentines uyayazi ukuba zithini injongo zethu.
When unemployed, the silence can deafen
Our government must put our needs first before lining the pockets of their employees. We surely cannot continue to suffer because of the incompetency of individuals in positions of power.
City Vision subscribes to the South African Press Code and we are committed to journalism that is honest accurate fair and balanced. Under our editorial policy, we invite readers to comment on the newspaper's content and we correct significant errors as soon as possible Please send information to the news editor at Thulani@cityvision.co.za or phone 021 910 6500 Alternately, please contact the Ombudsman of Media24's Community Press, George Claassen at george claassen@media24.com Complaints can also be sent to the SA Press Ombudsman on telephone 021 851 3232 or via email khanyim@ombudsman.org.za or johanr@ombudsman.org.za Find us online
In every family, there are moments that feel like they define you. For some, unemployment is one of those moments. It’s not just a number on a statistic sheet, it’s a reality that shakes the very core of who they are.
Lets honour our public holidays
People are losing interest not only in politics, but in everything associated with it, judging by the attendance at the recent Human Rights Day events that were held in different areas last Friday 21 March. The support was not convincing at all. Instead of people attending the events, they were doing their house chores while others were drinking as usual.
A journo’s
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Partners find themselves balancing their own stresses while trying to be a support system for someone in need.
I know this all too well. Watching my own family members and circle struggle with unemployment has made me realise how little we talk about the emotional toll it takes. We often talk about finding a job, updating CV’s and networking, but what about the silent battles? The feeling of inadequacy, the isolation, and the unspoken fear that things might never return to “normal”?
It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that unemployment is just a temporary setback, a phase you’ll work through. But for many, it’s a long and winding road. And in the midst of this journey, there’s so much more than simply searching for a job.
Being a Human Rights Day, Youth Day or Women’s Day are all the same. People are no longer interested.
As the non-white community, we owe a lot to our struggle stalwarts who dedicated their lives fighting for us. I feel as if we don’t appreciate the role they played by those who were before us. We don’t have to attend these events, but to show respect by staying sober for the day instead of roaming around the streets drunk. Maybe as parents, we fail to educate our children about the significance of these public holidays.
One of the hardest parts of being unemployed is the waiting game. The constant checking of emails, refreshing job boards, and hoping that this application is the one that will finally yield results. But with each rejection, or worse, each silence, the hope dims a little more.
I’ve seen in my family how the waiting wears on you. It’s not just a matter of getting through the day; it’s about maintaining your self-worth when every attempt seems to be met with rejection. The truth is, it’s not always about qualifications or experience, it’s about timing, about a world that sometimes doesn’t make room for those who are ready and will-
We don’t have to attend those political affiliated events but do our own things. Just do constructive things that will have a positive impact in our communities. Think of Ashley Kriel, Bantu Biko, Joe Slovo, Ahamed Kathrada - some of them lost their lives for the betterment of this country. Comrade Joe Slovo had the privilege to
Avoice
journo’s voice
- Unathi Obose -
ing.
Unemployment isn’t just financial; it’s emotional, too. The toll it takes on mental health can be overwhelming. The stress, the uncertainty, and the constant pressure to find the next opportunity can lead to feelings of inadequacy, frustration, and even despair. The worst part?
There’s also the guilt feeling that the family is burdened because one member can’t contribute. But here’s the truth: Unemployment isn’t a reflection of your worth as a person or your ability to contribute to society. It’s a reflection of a world that has become unpredictable, competitive, and at times, unkind. So, what can we do to help our loved ones and those in our communities who are unemployed?
First, we need to open up the conversation. Ask questions beyond “Did you find a job yet?” Start with “How are you really doing?” The most important thing is to listen.
Many feel they can’t talk about it. The shame and stigma surrounding unemployment prevent open conversations about what it really feels like. People who once had a clear purpose whether as a teacher, a healthcare worker, or a tradesperson find themselves lost in a world that doesn’t seem to need them anymore. The silence can be deafening, and it makes you wonder: Am I still valuable?
We often think of unemployment as an individual struggle, but in reality, it’s a family affair. It affects the dynamics, the relationships, and the emotional health of everyone involved. Parents feel the weight of providing for their children, even when jobs seem out of reach.
live a good life because of his skin colour, but he chose to fight for the poor. These are some of the people that we need to honour, people who had nothing to lose but decided to sacrifice their lives. Let’s not be dissuaded by the circus that our politicians are doing in parliament. The current political leaders are singing for their supper. All I’m asking is to honour these public holidays and educate each other about their importance. What our struggle stalwarts did, the current leaders cannot do. Those were the leaders who stood up for what they believed was right not only for them, but for the masses as well. Now, we have leaders who are pretending to be messiahs while they are looking after their stomachs.
Second, we need to build a culture of empathy. Acknowledge that it’s not easy to be in the position of feeling rejected time and again. Help them find resources – whether it’s job leads, mental health support, or even just a listening ear. Encouragement is vital, but so is giving them space to process their emotions.
Lastly, let’s make sure we don’t forget the importance of human connection. Too often, people in this situation can feel invisible. As a family, as a society, we can do better at showing that we see and care for each other. A simple act of kindness a call, a text, an offer of help can go a long way in making someone feel like they matter.
Unemployment is a hard journey, but it’s not one that has to be walked alone. There is no quick fix, no magic formula for ending the struggle, but there is something powerful in knowing you’re not invisible. That you’re not your job status, and you never will be.
For my family members and for anyone reading this who has faced or is facing unemployment know this: You are more than your circumstances. You are worthy, and your time will come. It may take longer than expected, and the road may be rough, but there’s hope in the waiting.
Don’t give up. And remember, we are all in this together.
Agroup of dedicated parents from Langa graduated and received the certificates together with goodie bags on Thursday 20 March after they completed an eight-week short course conducted by The Parent Centre organisation. They were trained on how to deal with their children at home. The Parent Centre is a non-government organisation designed to reduce the incidence of child abuse through the promotion of positive parent and effec-
tive child management practices to enhance the well-being and self-esteem of parents and children in different communities.
The centre’s facilitator Shuaib Salie described the course as the way to equip the parents not only with skills to deal with the children but with the family as a whole. They aim is to educate and empower them on how to be good parents and leaders in a family setting. “We provide services that are fair, impartial and striving to solve issues for the betterment of the child. We want them to under
stand the child’s behaviour and how he or she feelings,” he said.
Participants meet every Thursday from 09:30 until 12:30.
The organisation works with various government departments according to Salie. “Normally, we engage with the parents. Some of them come and share their problems with us. We refer them to the social workers if we see that they need professional assistance. We have our own network where we refer our students,” explained Salie, adding that they also conduct follow-ups with those who completed the course.
Among others, he saSalie stressed that they visit different communities.
Nomvuzo Bam, one of the parents, described the course as helpful as she works with the children in the community. She said the course was more about the development of children.“We were advised to listen to our children instead of judging them. And also told us to have a way to speak with them instead of raising our voices when we talk to them,” she explained, adding that they were also taught about the challenges entailed by the different stages of a child (infancy, adolescence, toddler stage and so on).
Amoyo set to dazzle at Artscape in ‘Stargazing’
NAMHLA MONAKALI
The Amoyo Performing Arts Foundation marks a major milestone, as it celebrates its 10th anniversary with a breathtaking production, Stargazing.
The showcase will take place at the Artscape Theatre, featuring inspiring performances from the foundation's talented young artists.
Founded in 2015, Amoyo has spent the last decade empowering children from underserved communities in Hout Bay through dance, drama and music. It has played a vital role in fostering confidence, creativity and essential life skills among its beneficiaries.
Kim Conley, the foundation's Executive Director, highlighted
the significance of this milestone. "We are beyond proud of the incredible journey Amoyo has undertaken. Over the last 10 years, we have transformed lives, instilled discipline, and nurtured artistic talent. Stargazing is a celebration of our youth's resilience and passion."
Through thousands of hours of performing-arts training, Amoyo has helped young people develop their artistic abilities and build a foundation for future success. Many alumni have gone on to thrive in various fields, proving the arts can be a powerful tool for social change.
Artscape has been a long-time supporter of Amoyo, with CEO Marlene le Roux applauding the foundation's growth and achievements.
Staff members from The Parent Centre together with some of the students holding their certificates during the graduation ceremony.
PHOTO: UNATHI OBOSE.
The Amoyo Performing Arts Foundation marks a major milestone as it celebrates its 10th anniversary with a breathtaking production, Stargazing, at the prestigious Artscape Theatre.
Arrest made over o cer murder
UNATHI OBOSE
A22-year-old Mfuleni man, Blessing Ndibongo (22), will appear in the Blue Downs Magistrates' Court on Thursday next week (3 April) in connection with the murder of Const Ayanda Moyikwa early this year.
It is alleged that Ndibongo shot dead Moyikwa on Monday 12 January when he tried to intervene during an armed robbery ("Unarmed police officer shot and killed in his vehicle in Mfuleni", City Vision, 16 January).
Moyikwa, who was off-duty at the time of the incident, was stationed at the Airport Border Police.
Western Cape Hawks spokesperson Zinzi Hani reported that Moyikwa was on his way to fetch his colleague at Gcuwa Street,
Mfuleni as they were scheduled to report for duty when the incident occurred. "While driving his private vehicle, he witnessed a robbery in progress at Gcuwa Street. During the robbery, a member of the public was assaulted and robbed of his cellphone and R100 cash. Moyikwa then reversed his vehicle and parked at 7157 Gcuwa Street, Ext 6," said Hani, adding that the suspects approached his vehicle and shot him once in the head.
She said he was also robbed of his cellphone.
As part of the investigation, a suspect was identified and a warrant of arrest was obtained.
"The suspect was traced to Pollsmoor Prison where he was arrested on Thursday 20 March," said Hani.
Following his arrest, he ap-
peared in the Blue Downs Magistrates' Court on Monday 24 March. The matter was postponed to next week for bail hearing and the accused has been remanded in custody.
A community leader who spoke on condition of anonymity praised the officers for doing a great job. He said the suspect deserves a life sentence.
"Attacking a law enforcement officer is like you are attacking the state. Whoever killed the officer must rot in jail. The deceased was not even involved in the incident. The suspect went to him and shot and killed the officer.
The state needs to make an example about this young man," he said. He stated that the death of the officer was not only the loss to his family but to the community at large. The vehicle of the deceased.
Budget VAT hike alarms pundit
NAMHLA MONAKALI
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana unveiled the 2025 Budget on Wednesday 15 March at the Cape Town City Hall, proposing a VAT increase to stabilise the economy amid rising debt.
“This budget ensures fiscal stability while addressing essential services,” he stated. However, the proposed hike from 15% to 15,5% on Thursday 1 May, with another increase expected next year, has sparked public concern and debate.
An additional R28,9 billion is allocated to health care, particularly for medical staff and HIV treatment. “Health-care investment is non-negotiable,” said Godongwana. Meanwhile, R5 billion is earmarked for military operations, while debt is projected to peak at 76,2% of GDP. Opposition par-
ties argue that the VAT hike will burden struggling households. “We understand the impact on citizens, which is why basic food items remain VAT-free,” Godongwana reassured.
Public reaction has been mixed. Economist scholar Khakha Totata said: “I don't see them taxing corporate entities for reasons we don’t know, perhaps to avoid discouraging investors. From a micro-economic perspective this Budget is a conservative one. The country is running at a deficit, but nothing here is alarming or surprising besides the tax increases. It's not a Budget that addresses socio-economic issues such as unemployment; it’s just consecutive budgeting.”
It now faces parliamentary scrutiny, with potential amendments, for “resilience and growth,” Godongwana concluded.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana unveiled the 2025 budget on Wednesday 15 M arch at the Cape Town city hall, proposing a VAT increase to stabilise the economy amid rising debt.
U N C E D O O LU N G O K U LU N G E L A U B U S I K A
The National Library of South Africa (NLSA) on Victoria Road will remain temporarily closed as major repair work continues.
The library shut its doors in August last year and was due to reopen next month.
Jolene Bhadais, executive director of corporate services at the NLSA, said an exact reopening date cannot be established at this stage, adding it could take another six months to complete the refurbishments.
“Owing to the nature of the work that needed to be done, we are unfortunately not able to open in April as initially communicated. We will issue an update to all stakeholders with regard to the extension of the project.”
Bhadais said the appointed contractor had indicated the building would be ready for occupation by October.
“We anticipate resuming normal operations within a month of being able to re-occupy the building.”
One of four legal-deposit libraries in South Africa, the facility holds vital historical and cultural resources, aside from its value as the first public library in SA. Others are the Mangaung Public Library, Msunduzi Municipal Library and Library of Parliament.
“The restoration and upgrading of this facility is not only meant to protect a significant heritage building and its collections,” Bhadais said, “but also to create a condu-
cive environment for our stakeholders.
“This refurbishment project is a vital investment in the future of this building and its users.
“We look forward to the successful completion of the project and the positive impact it will have on the community of Cape Town and the nation.”
She said construction work includes the refurbishment of the roof and ablution facilities.
“This is a very complex project that includes, among others, the relocation of books and all collections, procurement of materials as prescribed by the heritage agency.
“For which some of the materials are having to be imported from Europe as they are not available in South Africa and various other activities before the refurbishment of the roof and ablution facilities.”
She explained contractors started construction at the start of the year.
“We can confirm now that contractors have started the actual construction at the beginning of the year and providing the institution with regular updates in terms of the progress.
“We have professional resources that are managing the project, and they provide updated information as the project progresses.”
Limited services are available by appointment at 62 Queen Victoria Street. Email info@nlsa.ac.za or phone 064 649 6113 for details.
1. The Department of Social Development, Langa local office is requesting Odette Bartlett and Victor Bezuidenhout last seen in Pinelands to urgently contact the social worker Ms M Williams, at 021 815 8446 or at cnr Bennie & Harlem Street, Nomzamo Building, Langa during office hours (07:30-16:00) Mon-Fri. They are allegedly close relatives of two male children born in 2017 and 2008 and a female child born in 2011.
2. The Department of Social Development, Langa local office, is requesting Ashton Roman last seen in Bonteheuwel to urgently contact the social worker Ms M Williams, at 021 815 8446 or at cnr Bennie & Harlem Street Nomzamo Building, Langa during office hours (07:30-16:00) Mon-Fri He is allegedly a close relative of a female child born in 2016.
3. The Department of Social Development, Langa local office is requesting Shervon Martin and Moegamat Zainodien Brown last seen in Bonteheuwel to urgently contact the social worker Ms M Williams, at 021 815 8446 or at cnr Bennie & Harlem Street, Nomzamo Building, Langa during office hours (07:30-16:00) Mon-Fri. They are allegedly close relatives of two male children born in 2017 and 2022
4. The Department of Social Development, Langa local office is requesting Mymoena Meyer seen in Bonteheuwel to urgently contact the social worker Ms M Williams, at 021 815 8446 or at cnr Bennie & Harlem Street, Nomzamo Building, Langa during office hours (07:30-16:00) Mon-Fri. She is allegedly a close relative of female child born in 2009
5. The Department of Social Development, Langa local office, is requesting Rochelle Davids seen in Bonteheuwel area to urgently contact the social worker, Ms M Williams, at 021 815 8446 or at cnr Bennie & Harlem Street, Nomzamo Building, Langa during office hours (07:30-16:00) Mon-Fri. She is allegedly a close relative of a female child born in 2009
KAYLYNNE BANTOM
The Centre for the Book is offering limited services. PHOTO: KAYLYNNE BANTOM
ARINA WILSON
ENTERTAINMENT
Lira joins long list of musos for CTIJF
The Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) is set to bring the heat when it returns to the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) next month.
The artist announcement kicked off with a bang, with global super-
star Black Coffee and jazz genius Nduduzo Makhathini named.
Then the smooth and sultry Ari Lennox was announced, followed by a stellar mix of worldclass talents such as Victor Masondo Quartet, featuring Thembi Mtshali and Bheki Khoza, Linda Sikhakhane, Benjamin Jephta Z Kujenga, the Kyle Shepherd Trio, Thandiswa Mazwai and Nomfundo Xaluva.
Organisers recently announced that Lira, the powerhouse “Supercrew” and the dynamic Plurism would also take to the stage.
More than 30 artists will perform over two days.
South African queen of Afro-soul Lira makes a powerful and emotional comeback to the festival stage after overcoming a significant health setback.
The multi-award-winning songstress suffered a stroke in 2022, which temporarily affected her speech and ability to sing. But through resilience, determination and unwavering passion for her craft, she has made an incredible recovery.
Lira’s journey back to music has been one of inspiration, demonstrating the power of perseverance and the healing force of song.
Known for her rich, velvety
voice and uplifting messages of love and hope, she has captivated audiences worldwide with hits such as “Feel Good”, “Something Inside So Strong”, and “Rise Again”.
Her return to the CTIJF stage will be more than just a performance; it will be a moment of triumph, a celebration of her indomitable spirit and a testament to the unwavering love and support of her fans.
Ward, Prins, Shepherd and Rubain, four legends, four virtuosos, one unforgettable collaboration.
Guitarist Cameron Ward, who toured the world as Hugh Masekela’s lead guitarist for more than a decade, brings unmatched artistry and passion to the strings.
Donveno Prins, South African saxophonist, has shared the stage with such global icons as Jonathan Butler, Marcus Miller and Kirk Whalum.
Kyle Shepherd, an internationally celebrated jazz pianist and award-winning film composer, delivers breathtaking musical storytelling. Completing this powerhouse lin-eup is Jonathan Rubain, a jazz and gospel artist-turned-TV star whose rich musical journey makes him an unstoppable force on stage.
Faku and Simmy Sunset Concert at Kirstenbosch
Ami Faku and Simmy will take the stage at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens on Sunday 30 March, as part of the Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts series.
The concert, scheduled to start at 17:15, will feature the talented duo performing their popular Afro-soul and Afro-house hits. Gates will open at 16:00. Tickets for the event are priced
from R255, with free entry for children under six.
The concert will take place regardless of weather conditions and no refunds will be issued. Additionally, the event is a non-smoking affair.
• For more information or to book tickets, visit https:// www.sanbi.org/event_cat/ kirstenbosch
Lira will take to the International Jazz Festival stage next month.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Ami Faku and Simmy to perform at Kirstenbosch Gardens
Firefighters lace up for a fun charity run to support Volunteer Wildfire Services at Two Oceans
What started as a light-hearted challenge in 2017 has become an annual run to cast a spotlight on the critical work of the Volunteer Wildfire Services (VWS). City firefighters, Jermaine Carelse and Renaldo Duncan, were at the heart of the origin story – last year they were joined by two volunteer firefighters from VWS, and this year, former Springbok James Dalton is joining the scrum to complete the Two Oceans Marathon. Carelse and Duncan will once again compete in their firefighting gear and self-containing breathing apparatus which weigh an additional 10 kg. They will be joined by VWS volunteer firefighters, Liam Gannon and Thomas Lennon, with Dalton aiming to keep pace with the group. The races will take place over the weekend of Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 April, with the half marathon on Sunday. Pictured are the firemen during the 2024 Two Oceans Half Marathon.
Philippi teams take honours
UNATHI OBOSE
The Philippi-based teams Sea Robbers FC and Seven X Netball have become champions of Jerry Bobi Youth Soccer and the u-21 Netball Tournament held at Lwandle Sports Complex. The tournament kicked off on Friday 7 and continued until Saturday 15 March. The Sea Robbers from Browns Farm beat Bazuka United FC from Lwandle 4-2 on penalties after the game ended in a goalless draw. They walked away with R10 000, a floating trophy and gold medals, while Bazuka received R5 000 and silver medals. The losing semi-finals walked away with R1 000 each.
In netball Seven X from Acacia beat Teddy Bear from Lwandle 17-13. Seven X won R5 000, a floating trophy and gold medals while Teddy Bear received only R2 500 and silver medals. The losing semi-finals received R500 each.
Tournament organiser Jerry Bobi described it as a platform for young players to showcase their talent. He said the aim was to take the young people away from the streets. Bobi declared that the tournament was scheduled to be a weekend tournament but because the number of the soccer teams that joined they were compelled to extend it. “The tournament was
scheduled to start on Friday 7 until Sunday 9 March. In netball everything went according to plan as we had 10 teams only. They finished on Sunday 9 March. In soccer we were anticipating at least 16 teams, but the number of the teams increased to 22. We had to extend it until Saturday 15 March,” explained Bobi. He said he is planning that the tournament to becomes an annual event. “For the last four years the tournament was known as a Big Daddy Tournament. Then I took over this year and I decided to change it to be a Jerry Bobi Soccer and Girls Tournament. We are happy with the reception that we received from the community. And it is something
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that we will do annually,” said Bobi. Sea Robbers coach Asanga Mkwelo said they are happy with their performance. He said it was the first time his team participated in the tournament.
“We worked very hard preparing for the tournament. We had to put so much effort and focus on the game. Some of our games started at 08:00. We had to sacrifice and went to camp so that we wouldn’t struggle to find the players when we went in the morning,” said Mkwelo, adding that they had to take money from their pockets to feed the players. He stated that the money they won will make a difference as they will buy soccer equipment.
Seven X from Acarcia in Philippi beat Teddy Bear from Lwandle 18-13 during the tournament.
Sea Robbers FC from Browns Farm won the Jerry Bobi Youth Soccer and u-21 Netball Tournament after beating Bazuka United FC from Lwandle 4-2 on penalties. The game ended in a goalless draw.
