Bark stripping endemic
NAMHLA MONAKALI NAMHLA MONAKALI@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
Bark stripping in Newlands Forest has reportedly reached its highest levels since 2023, with illegal harvesters stripping trees at night and even lighting campfires near major trails. Conservationists warn that if the destruction continues the forest’s delicate ecosystem could face long-term collapse
Tree painting, a preventative measure introduced by the Newlands Forest Conservation Group with support from the Sugarbird Project, has emerged as a highly effective solution Of the 3 000 trees painted to date, less than 0,3% have been stripped, prompting a renewed campaign to paint 3 000 more trees over the next few months At R50 per tree, the group is urgently seeking public donations to hire more painters and scale-up the effort
VISIBLEDAMAGE
William Boshoff, who co-founded the conservation group after moving to Newlands in 2019, said the damage from bark harvesting was first visible high up in the forest
“It’s illegal, and when we realised how widespread it had become we knew we had to act That’s when we started the group and began building a relationship with SANParks (South African National Parks) ”
The most frequently-targeted species are rare indigenous trees including stinkwood, assegaai and Cape holly Recently, even Turkey berry and heart-pear trees, previously untouched, had been stripped, indicating an escalation
“It’s not just about losing trees You getting holes in the canopy and the what’s left,” Boshoff said
Barkstripping in Newlands Forest has reached its highest levels since 2023, with illegal harvesters now stripping trees at night
Do CT pet-owner survey
Pet owners have only two weeks left to participate in a survey focused on collecting data on Cape Town’s pet population, which aims to help shape future planning and interventions around animal welfare
Over the past four weeks, 13 037 pet owners have completed the City of Cape Town’s domestic-animal survey hosted by AfriPaw Animal Welfare The study seeks to address the number of pets in the metro; vaccinated pets; sterilisation status and the type health-care accessed in times of need
AfriPaw is a non-profit organisation (NPO) that educates low-income communities on their pets’ primary needs and facilitates free sterilisations as well as access to affordable primary healthcare and food, and shelter for township pets
The most recent survey was conducted in Vrygrond on Saturday 12 April, when the City deployed teams of fieldworkers to engage residents
Six weeks have been set aside for the survey “We’re trying very hard to improve the quality of life of everybody in our city,” said Mayco member for safety and security JP Smith “Not having a healthy animal population affects the human population So it’s important that we get better data so we can speak to provincial and national government about proper funding for our animal-welfare organisations, who do great
IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF EVERYONE IN CITY LIES AT THE HEART OF DOING THE PET SURVEY.
work for all the pet lovers and animal owners across the city So if you haven’t done so already, please go online and help us in this very important cause by completing the survey ” The survey outcomes will help shape future
planning and interventions on animal welfare in Cape Town, and provide an estimate of the domestic animal population Fieldworkers conducting the in-person surveys will carry identification cards when visiting properties
Residents can contact the City’s Customer Call Centre on 0860 103 089 to verify a fieldworker ’ s credentials, if need be The survey can be completed online at https://bit ly/4bPScdI The City has also set up a toll-free number for general queries or concerns about the survey – 0800 212 176, available weekdays between 08:00 and 16:00
WesternCapecracksdownonroadsafety
Following the death of 14 pedestrians over the Easter Weekend, the Western Cape Government has renewed its call for all road users to prioritise safety, whether behind the wheel, walking or cycling
Over this period 181 people were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol These statistics underscore the urgent need for safer road use, both from drivers and pedestrians
Muneera Allie, the Western Cape Mobility Department’s Head of Communications, said these recent figures are a stark reminder of the real consequences of irresponsible behaviour
She said alcohol impairs judgment, slows reaction times and puts everyone at risk Pedestrians, in particular, remain vulnerable, especially when visibility is low or road rules are ignored
With increased traffic volumes expected, the Western Cape Mobility Department reminds all residents and visitors to stay vigilant and make
responsible choices on the road
Drivers are reminded that alcohol and driving do not mix If you ’ re planning to consume alcohol, do so responsibly and make alternative travel arrangements
Use a ride-hailing service, taxi, or another form of public transport
Designate a sober driver in your group
If hosting offer safe options for guests to get home or stay over
Pedestrians remain among the most vulnerable road users To stay safe:
• Cross only at designated pedestrian crossings
• Avoid walking on highways and busy roads
• Wear visible or reflective clothing, especially at night or in poor weather conditions
• Stay alert - avoid distractions like phones or headphones near traffic
KEEPCHILDRENSAFE
With children out of school next week, it is crucial for drivers and parents to take the following extra precautions:
• Always use appropriate car seats or booster seats for young children
• Teach children basic road-safety rules, such as looking both ways before crossing
• Never leave children unattended in vehicles or near busy roads
• Reduce speed in residential areas, near malls, playgrounds or parks
“As families take advantage of the break to travel or enjoy leisure time we are calling on every individual to be part of the safety solution,” Allie said “It takes only one poor decision to cause a life-changing incident Let us all make the right choices, whether driving, walking or cycling, and ensure a safe and joyful long weekend for everyone ”
Herewithsigningoutforonelasttime...
hand there was so much more, and so a very clear mission was set in motion
My dream was largely realised in 2014 as an intern, on the newspaper ’ s Lansdowne edition
I had a dream of becoming a journalist from Grade 5, when a teacher helped me recognise my gift of the written word And despite much discouragement of having faith in one’s own career dreams, I went on to realise them
Once realised, soon enough it became abundantly clear that this was the right choice, making a difference through telling the stories of others
I always say we are often the voiceless soldiers behind the published works, rewarded by a simple byline at the top for our efforts No personal opinions, no guided narratives So on these few occasions we give readers insight into the person who is the subject of our newspaper
For those who may not know me, or my story, my name is Samantha (although I never hear my full name unless I’m in trouble, of course)
I had a dream of becoming a journalist at People’s Post newspaper, specifically writing for Mitchells Plain, the area I was born and finished my schooling in, and to which I still a have very deep sense of belonging, even though my family moved out of the area at the start of high-school years
I was inspired to make a difference by telling the positive news from the area, amid continuous front-page articles about all the deepest darkest happenings in the area I knew, first-
But slowly God let the full dream unfold, and in time I wrote for the prized edition for Mitchells Plain What was meant to be a six-month internship ended after three months with a full-time offer It was an opportunity to prove myself
Consequently, I believe I personify the saying “If you love what you do you won’t work a day in your life
”
But in reality life is a constant pursuit of success It becomes easy to get wrapped up in the day-to-day hustle without realising how much one has achieved and how far one ’ s determination has brought one It is only in moments of silent reflection that we learn to appreciate the journey along with the end destination
With more than 50 awards, commendations, finalist nominations and recognitions along the more-than-10-year span of my career, and having the privilege of featuring in almost every major journalism competition in the country I never imagined doing anything else And honestly, through all of this I have learnt many valuable lessons
How does that line from Woody Allen go (apparently based on an old Yiddish proverb)?
“If you want to make God laugh tell him about your plans
”
I truly believed this was where I had made my name, and where I would possibly end it too You know, one cannot tell the future; I mean, if you asked me a few years ago where I’d be at
this point my answer would probably have been the same as it was then Tomorrow (30 April), I will officially close a chapter of my life At 32, I stand at the precipice of major change A huge step into the unknown, leaving all that I have known, all I had once dreamt of, to embark on a whole new journey, is about to unfold I once believed it was too late for me to start over But I now know it is possible to want more and that one ’ s goals and dreams can evolve
I recognise the magnitude of this new career move, an opportunityto make a fresh start, a whole new beginning, which is more than many can do right now So I can count my blessings In fact, I didn’t want to write this column at all, for fear it would be a tad too emotional My colleagues were quite adamant that I write this, my swansong, and how glad I am that I obliged For the past 10-and-a-half years, People’s Post has become such a huge part of my identity, a publication I have passionately advocated for, and it has been such an incredible ride From the highest of highs to some uncomfortable lows, it has undoubtedly shaped the person I am today
And while it is with a heavy heart that I officially bid farewell to my career as a reporter today I am so immensely grateful for all I have achieved on this most fulfilling of journeys
Thank you for the memories, for the platform, for the opportunity to inform, inspire and entertain you along the way
As I often would say in my videos, “signing out for one more time [although this time final], for People’s Post news I am Samantha Lee-Jacobs ”
SAMANTHA LEE-JACOBS
Mayco member for safety and security JP Smith at the monthly pet clinic hosted by AfriPaw at Capricorn Primary School
Vibrant display of inclusive sport
NAMHLAMONAKALI
Newlands Cricket Ground played host to a vibrant display of inclusive sport, when Western Cape schools participated in the Table Cricket Festival, an event dedicated to young learners with disabilities.
Organised by the Spirit Foundation, in partnership with Lord’s Taverners South Africa and the Sporting Chance Development Foundation, the festival saw teams from schools including Vista Nova Primary, St Joseph’s Montana Primary, St Joseph’s Marist (Special Needs), Filia School, Astra School, Eros School and Jan Kriel School compete in a series of adapted table cricket matches
The festival formed part of the growing Table Cricket Interschools League, offering many of the learners a rare opportunity to experience team sport Specially-adapted tables and equipment ensured all learners could fully participate, with each run scored and wicket taken symbolising empowerment, access and joy
“True inclusion is achieved not when children are allowed to participate, but when they belong,” said Armand Bam, Managing Director of the Spirit Foundation “What was witnessed and experienced at Newlands was a celebration of belonging ” Former Protea cricketer and General Manager of Lord’s Taverners South Africa Steve Palframan described the day as moving “This is more than just a sports event; it’s a platform for growth Many of these children have never had the chance to be part of a team Watching them leave with their heads held high is why we do this ” Natalie Pollock, General Manager at Sporting Chance, credited the event’s success to collaboration among partners, teachers and families
NewCPFhitsgroundrunning
The Pinelands Community Policing Forum (CPF) has welcomed a new executive committee (exco) after a successful special general meeting held at SASNEV – Huis der Nederlanden on Tuesday 15 April
The meeting drew strong attendance from l l i ti d id t h i t over the years In her first speech as chair Hopley spoke passionately about the role of community in keeping Pinelands safe “Volunteering matters When we give our time and energy, we build something bigger than ourselves Let’s break th ll d d k W
“The energy on the field and the commitment from everyone involved created something truly special ” The Spirit Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote dignity, inclusion, and opportunity – particularly among youth often excluded from mainstream sports
Bethany church holds market
Bethany Fellowship Church at 225 Imam Haron Road, Claremont will have its monthly market on Saturday 3 May from 07:00 to 13:00 There will be a tea garden, jam, bric-a-brac, books, crafts, jewellery, clothing, plants and
available at R30 . Contact the Bethany church office on 021 671 9400/061 709 2533
The Newlands Cricket Ground played host to a vibrant display of inclusive sport, Western Cape schools participated in the Table Cricket Festival,an
ed to young learners with disabilities
Medic graduate speaks of journey
“Iam raising leaders, not followers” says the father of a young medical doctor recently graduated from the University of Cape Town (UCT).
For Luxolo Mdolo these words had a powerful effect, laying the foundations of a remarkable journey for him
“These words influenced me not just to be an observer in life,“but an active participant in measures to improve the quality of life of our people At the heart of true leadership lies a deep desire to serve others, something that transcends one ’ s innate sense of self-preservation ” And serve he did, both in the classroom and outside it
Mdolo, who received his Bachelor of Medicine and of Surgery (MBChB) at UCT’s autumn 2025 ceremony in the Sarah Baartman Hall, is now a first-year medical intern at the Grey’s Hospital complex in Pietermaritzburg
This young achiever’s journey was anything but ordinary In his third year, he enrolled in UCT’s rigorous intercalated programme, completing a BSc in Molecular Medicine alongside his MBChB “In 2021, I took a year off my medical degree to pursue an honours in neuroscience and physiology,” he explained “I did this under the amazing supervision of Dr Rachael Dangarembizi, where I was investigating the neurological immune effects of Cryptococcus neoformans in mice brains, with the hope that it will improve the current management of this rampant fungal infection on the African continent ”
This academic detour was made possible by the Bongani Mayosi Foundation, a name that would become even more significant in Mdolo’s journey
While academic achievement defined his formal journey Mdolo’s impact extends to thousands beyond the lecture hall Known online as “Ta Mdizo”, he has built a loyal following with content designed to uplift and inspire “I cur-
rently have 194 000 TikTok followers, 19 000 YouTube subscribers and 5 000 Instagram followers “Through this brand I strive to make education fashionable to our youth and to equip them with the necessary tools to escape the mentality of helplessness and actively shape a better future for themselves and their communities ”
Mdolo credits UCT for not only shaping him intellectually, but also helping him grow into a well-rounded leader “UCT provided me with the highest quality of education on the continent It allowed me to thrive in the working environment and offered me a community of like-minded people who have now become lifelong close friends and brothers ”
He embraced leadership roles with vigour, from faculty mentorship to chairing the Kutlwanong Promaths Society, serving as a student wellness and MBChB class representative, residence academic rep and sub-warden, and co-founding the African Research Society “UCT offered me employment opportunities to be financially independent while studying,” he said, “and that helped lessen the burden on my parents ”
Managing dual academic programmes came with immense pressure “The academic pressure took me very close to breaking point,” he admitted “It felt like a big pot of water on a very hot stove about to boil over You cannot switch the heat off, nor can you remove yourself from the hot plate ” What pulled him through was self-reflection, strategic planning and a willingness to ask for help “I reviewed my schedule to identify pockets of time I could capitalise on I would often ask myself, ‘What can I do now to
make life easy for myself later?’” He read books, watched podcasts, sought guidance from lecturers and asked peers for advice “With a heart willing to do anything to improve my handle on my academics I became stronger ”
Now based in Pietermaritzburg, Mdolo is leaning into a new chapter with enthusiasm “I am enjoying the process of building new friendships and bonds with amazing young people from all over the country,” he shared “I’m always finding new hobbies and am always on the hunt for the next amazing coffee shop and braai place in town ”
Among his many accolades Mdolo holds the Bongani Mayosi Student’s Academic Prize in
special regard Voted for by classmates, the award celebrates academic achievement, emotional intelligence and social-responsiveness values embodied by the late head of UCT’s Department of Medicine Prof Bongani Mayosi “It does not reflect how you see yourself, but more what others see in you, ” Mdolo explained
“More than 70% of the class must vote for who they believe portrayed the amazing characteristics of our late professor, a holistic leader par excellence
“To me, this prize reflects my potential to make a difference in people’s lives It represents a call to serve through leadership and inspire through excellence ”
Luxolo Mdolo with his family following his graduation ceremony. PHOTO BRENTON GEACH
GWork is advancing in Claremont with the extensive upgrade of Imam Haron, Chichester and Stanhope Roads in preparation for future transport infrastructure. The first set of roadworks is currently underway while several other temporary road and lane closures will soon take effect and continue for approximately six months.
Road users are urged to factor in additional travel time, approach the area with caution and follow the temporary signage and guidance from flag personnel.
29 April 2025 – October 2025
• One right-turn lane closure from Stanhope Road onto Imam Haron Road. One right-turn lane will remain open
• One right-turn lane closure from Palmyra Road into Stanhope Road. The remaining lane will be used for traffic to continue straight or turn right.
• One lane on Imam Haron Road, between Stanhope Road and First Avenue, will be closed to traffic travelling toward the M5.
• Full road closure at intersection of Stanley Road and Imam Haron Road.
• No right turns from Roseville, Oakfield, Ravensworth and Wade Roads onto Imam Haron Road.
14 May 2025 – November 2025
• Full road closure on Imam Haron Road in both directions between Cook Road and Markham Road. Detour via Markham Road.
• One lane closure on Imam Haron Road, from Markham Road to Selous Road toward Kenilworth. Detour via Markham Road. Full road closures at the intersection of Imam Haron Road and Columbus, Markham and Franklin Roads.
Thank you for your patience and cooperation
For enquiries, call the Transport Information Centre (toll-free 24/7) on 0800 65 64 63, email transport.info@capetown.gov.za or follow @CityofCTAlerts on X (previously Twitter) and @myciti_phase2 on Facebook and X.
Jazz Festival hits all the right notes
Jamaican-American musician Masego. PHOTOS: KAYLYNNE BANTOM
American songtress Ari Lennox was the headline act on Saturday
Lanielle Hartzenberg, Carmen Prins, Charmaine Slinger-Smith, Danchia Slinger-Smith and Euodia Samson enjoyed the festival
Rush and Erica Gutu enjoyed all the performances
Riethaa Abrahams, Taahir Adams and Laaiqah Ghadien, from Athlone, had a blast
MainPurposeofJob
Keyresponsibilities:
• Generatingnewbusinessleads,developingsales strategiesandbuildingrelationshipswithpotentialnew clientstodrivebusinessgrowth.
• Identifynewopportunities,pitchWPmediaproducts andservices.
• Planandexecutepromotionalstrategiestoboost productvisibilityanddrivesales.
• Proactivelysourceandsecurenewadvertisingclients
• Selladvertisingspaceacrossbothprintanddigital platforms
• Developandpresentcompellingadsolutionstailoredto clientneeds
• Fosterstrongrelationshipswithbusinesses,individuals, andcommunityadvertisers
• Consistentlyachievesalestargetsandcontributetothe publication'sgrowth
• Keepupwithlocalmarkettrendstoidentifynewsales opportunities
• Workcloselywithinternalteamstoensuresmoothad booking,layout,andpublishing
Skillsandcompetencies
• Solidunderstandingofbothprintanddigitalmedia sales
• Excellentcommunication,negotiation, andinterpersonalskills
• Target-drivenmindsetwithstrongself-motivation
• Passionforlocalmediaandcommunityengagement
• Validdriver slicenseandreliabletransport.
• Adaptableandversatilemindset.
• Flexibleinapproachandabletoadjustquicklyina fast-pacedenvironment
Qualificationsandexperience
• Minimumgrade12
• Relevantqualificationwouldbeadvantageous
• Minimum2yearsofsalesexperience (media,advertising,orclassifiedsalespreferred) Deadline
Soccer Budyz readytogo
Girls and boys between the ages of four and seven years are invited to compete in the Soccer Budyz CKC Cup mini-tournament to be held on Saturday 3 May at Sansbury Mall in Eerste River
The event, which is hosted in partnership with Cornelius Schools, involving 14 of its franchise schools, takes place from 08:00 to 13:00
According to Fernando Classen, founder of Soccer Budyz, the development venues where boys and girls can participate in its programmes are in Rylands, Eerste River and Pinelands, at Oude Molen High School
“The event on Saturday in Eerste River is a celebration of youth talent and sportmanship, and the areas our kids come from include Durbanville, Kuils River, Eerste River, Mandalay, Khayelitsha, Maitland, Pinelands, Athlone, Claremont, Ottery, Mitchell’s Plain, Goodwood and Parow Awesome prizes are up for grabs and we promise fun for the
DURBELLARECURRENTLYTHELOGLEADERS
YOUNG COLLEGIANS WIN IN LENTEGEUR
Mihlali Mpongo of Vusa Rugby Academy in Langa slips the desperate attempt of Ameer Orderson of Collegians Rugby Football Club during a WPRU School League game played at the refurbished Lentegeur Sports Complex on Saturday 26 March Collegians won the u-13 fixture 28-17
Rugby action heats up
Rugby supporters of clubs in Super League A are in for a stressful time this season as there are no outright favourites at the moment.
With three games completed
Durbell are currently log leaders with 14 points after three matches, and it was obvious on Saturday 26 April against newbie Van der Stel-Evergreens from Stellenbosch that they are on a mission to topple Hamiltons this year
At half-time Durbell led 19-12 and VDE was still in the game
However, when the second half started VDE could not keep up with the experienced Durbell players who romped to a 52-24 victory
Valuable lessons were learnt by the visitors and the spectators in Durbanville cannot complain about the rugby on display
Other teams cannot afford to write VDE off after this loss and everyone is looking forward to the rest of the season to see how they grow after each match against the big guns In their first match they dispatched St Georges by 40-11
But rugby leagues are not won in May and with the tertiary institutions starting to fulfil their league commitments after the Varsity Cup and Varsity Shield, it will be a seesaw-battle on the log Helderberg is second on the log with
points followed by Villager (11) and False Bay (7)
VDE v Unimil False Bay v Maties Villager v UWC Kuils River and Helderberg have byes
A bloodied Andries Viljoen of Villager RFC trots nonchalantly to the try-line, a split-second
Mark Kleinschmidt, councillor of Ward