Wet weather a possible damper for mourners
With winter in full swing bringing heavy downpours the City cautions residents that this might necessitate changes to regular cemetery operations
The City’s recreation and parks department says in the past consistent rainfall and/or periods of heavy downpours caused the water table level to rise, which then had the potential to impact operations, like digging graves, or reopening family graves for second burials and access in general
However, the department says it has winter readiness plans and contingencies in place to mitigate the risk of inclement weather
The plans include clearing alien vegetation to maximise burial space, servicing water pumps, repairing potholes on internal cemetery roads and clearing storm water channels to promote drainage
Francine Higham, Mayco member for community services and health, says saturated water tables or flooding pose challenges that are not always easily resolved
“The recreation and parks department asks that undertakers and families planning burials please
be mindful that these conditions might require shallower graves or alternative burial sites ”
She appeals to undertakers and officiants to try and expedite burials for a better and effective traffic management system in and out of the cemeteries
CEMETERYOPERATIONSDURING
INCLEMENTWEATHER:
. Cemetery staff might need to prepare shallower graves, depending on water table levels at a particular cemetery
. This will limit the opportunity to bury a second coffin in the same private grave
. The City also reserves the right to advise against requests for reopening of a family grave if it is in an area of the cemetery where it is very waterlogged and/or recommend an alternate grave or an alternate cemetery
. Parking, roads and pathways might be unusually flooded, or slippery, and the public is advised to exercise extreme caution
. Wear suitable weatherproof clothing and waterproof nonslip shoes to avoid slipping and puddles
. Arrive timeously at the burial and do not exceed the 30-minute
STAFF MIGHT NEED TO PREPARE SHALLOWER GRAVES
timeslot so as to alleviate parking congestion
. Consider a smaller number of people attending burials, particularly during episodes of inclement weather
. Exercise caution when carry-
ing coffins and avoid standing too close to open graves
. Consider weekday burials to reduce overcrowding in cemeteries on weekends
. Undertakers should exercise caution with gazebos which are prone to injuring mourners if swept away in the wind
. The City also reminds undertakers to abide by the specifications for gazebos as outlined in the Cemetery by-law, and to refrain from the use of stretch tents and marquees
SignupforBlistersnow,whileyoustillcan
KAYLYNNEBANTOM
Imagine trying to learn while your stomach is growling that’s the daily reality for thousands of learners across the country That’s why the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) is not just important; it’s essential in helping schools fight hunger and fuel young minds
PSFA is a 67-year-old non-profit organisation (NPO) that addresses hunger among learners attending primary, secondary and special needs schools, OVC Safe Parks, ECDs, and TVET colleges in the Western Cape
It provides daily nutritious meals to learners in over 100 schools
One such school is Kenmere Primary School in Kensington
The school has been a beneficiary for the past 30 years
Richard Page, principal at the school, expressed gratitude to
PSFA He said over 1 000 learners from his school receive a nutritious meal daily in the morning and afternoon “We have learners from Maitland, Kensington and Factreton, but we also do have learners travelling from other areas as well Many of the learners come from impoverished backgrounds,” said Page
He said the learners receive a bowl of porridge before 08:00, followed by a wholesome lunch in the afternoon
“On some days they also receive a fruit,” explained the principal
In July last year, the PSFA revitalised its nutritional menu for the first time in 16 years
“It is a nice and wholesome meal, and the learners enjoy it Peninsula School Feeding Association is doing an amazing job We are grateful to be part of the programme, ” he said
In order to render this essential service, the PSFA relies on the generosity of the public and donors
The Blisters for Bread Charity Family Fun Walk is one of the organisation’s annual fundraising events and it has been running for 57 years
This year the event returns to the Green Point Common Sports Ground on Sunday 31 August
Online entries are now open, and participation is limited to 8 000 walkers Registration closes at midnight on Sunday 17 August
Every participant will be presented with a commemorative medal In addition complimentary refreshments will be available
Green Point will come alive with live music performances from top local artists, family-friendly entertainment, food stalls and activities for kids and grown-ups alike
Petrina Pakoe, director of PSFA,
says Blisters for Bread is more than just an event it’s a heartfelt movement
“Every Rand raised and every kilometre walked helps us ensure that no child has to learn on an empty stomach ”
The R100 entry fee will enable PSFA to provide both breakfast and lunch to 20 hungry learners for a day Official event T-shirts are available at R150 Starting in Stephan Way, Green Point, and finishing at the Green Point Common Sports Ground, the event offers two scenic route options along Cape Town’s iconic Sea Point Promenade: a 10km walk which starts at 07:30 and a 5km walk starting at 08:00 . To register or learn more, visit www.psfa.org.za.Contact Top Events at info@topevents co za or via WhatsApp on 066 139 4210 for any enquiries
After witnessing a simple act of kindness, my hope in humanity has been restored
In a country often clouded by violence, murders and negativity it’s moments like these that remind us of the goodness still alive in people’s hearts
Most of us must have seen or read the article about a Riebeek West resident named Johan Kotze who had an extra ticket to watch the Springbok take on the Barbarians live at Cape Town Stadium Kotze showed the true spirit of ubuntu when he gave his extra ticket to a man living on the street,
known as Luigi, whom he met a few hours before the game
Awh, was my immediate response when I first heard of the story And I wasn’t the only one Kotze stole the hearts of Capetonians But more than that he gave his new best friend an experience of a lifetime Made his year Made him forget his circumstances and who knows, maybe even restored hope for Luigi
This experience, though small, carried immense weight reigniting my belief in compassion, connection, and the quiet strength of everyday human decency
It once again showed the unifying power of sport
For a few hours two men from completely different backgrounds and circumstances shared beers, talked, cheered as they both have
an equal love for the game
It can be done There is the proof
We don’t have to live in silos
Hundreds of soup kitchens were birthed during the Covid-19 pandemic and are still active today Dare I say the kitchens are even more needed today than they were five years ago It’s always heartwarming to see how ordinary South Africans show up for each other
This while our political landscape seems to be crumbling as leaders
fight for power at our expense
As we approach Mandela Day, let us be reminded that it is the small acts of kindness that can brighten someone ’ s day
The high cost of living affects all of us From fuel and electricity hikes to soaring food prices and rental costs, the pressure on house-
holds, especially low-income and vulnerable communities has never been greater
You need only to drive through the traffic lights or enter a supermarket to see the number of people asking for a rand or two to get some food Basic needs that were once manageable are now becoming unaffordable for many, forcing people to make impossible choices between shelter, food, healthcare, and dignity
This economic reality has had a particularly harsh impact on those already living on the margins, including those living on the street As a nation, we face many challenges but when it comes to showing up for one another, we stand united This is what makes us unique This is what binds us May we never lose sight of that
The City’s Recreation and Parks Department warns mourners of possible flooding and associated risks at local cemeteries PHOTO: KAYLYNNE BANTOM
KAYLYNNE BANTOM
Eisteddfodsuccess
KEANANHARMSE
Generation Schools Imhoff celebrated their end of term by awarding their learners for excellent performances in poetry recitals and chess tournaments
The arts learners performed and received their certificates at the Eisteddfod Showcase on Wednesday 25 July at the school premises
“Our (learners) performed in various categories including: drama, poetry, music, art, and a battle of the choirs, with placings of gold, silver, and bronze in each category,” said school spokesperson Caronne Vermaak
Leonidas Ray, Amandla Ngoasheng, Kayla de Klerk and Phillou de Hoogh received certificates for poetry recitals
In other news, chess stars Murray Copley (Grade 6), Joakim Bessesen (Grade 7), Sindre Bessesen and Noah Malengret (both Grade 1) proved their mettle through a series of tournaments to secure their spot in the Western Province
on Wednesday 25
FROMPAGE1
“We are volunteers and rely on donations which is not forthcoming, we have no sponsors to help us and try to best to make money by selling merchandise which also costs money to produce,” he said
People’s Post reached out to the Muizenberg Police Station for comment but they could respond before the time of publication
The City’s Recreation and Parks Department says it is aware of the matter
“These kinds of occurrences have taken place in the past, particularly during the winter period
“As an interim measure, a decision was made to remove the doors of the huts to avoid vandals breaking in and damaging the structures around the doors Security has since ensured that these structures are not used illegally until the matter is resolved,” the City explained in statement
According to the City, there is a 24-hour security patrol around the Muizenberg Pavilion,
Muizenberg Beach and the entire Surfers Corner, including the huts
“Vandalism and theft are major challenges affecting many communities throughout the City When it occurs in community facilities, it attracts anti-social behaviour and results in fewer recreational facilities for communities with few alternatives
“The cost of continuous repair or replacement of damaged assets is unsustainable Community involvement has been shown as one of the topmost contributors to protecting recreational facilities from vandalism, as behaviour changes when they are perceived to be valuable community assets,” the City said
The department appealed to residents to report incidents of vandalism and/or theft as soon as possible so that corrective action could be taken
The public can report these incidents to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre at 021 480 7700 from a cellphone or 107 from a landline
Chess Team
July
The Senior Primary Choir
Grayson Hartman played the piano at the Eisteddfod Showcase.
Western Province Chess - Up against strong contenders, Generation Schools Imhoff’s chess stars, back left to right, Murray Copley (Grade 6), Joakim Bessesen (Grade 7), Sindre Bessesen and Noah Malengret (both Grade 1) came up trumps through a series of tournaments, to make the Western Province Chess Team
Mandela Day drive on the cards
The public is invited to spend their weekends knitting and crocheting for a good cause to celebrate the legacy of Mandela Day.
Beanies for Babies – Knit with Love is set to take place at Longbeach Mall from Monday 16 July to Wednesday 18 July where participants dedicating 67 minutes (and more) will help create hand-knitted beanies for new-borns
The beanies will be donated to the neonatal and maternity wards of a local hospital Organiser Irene Oxley says both beginners and experts can look forward to a full workshop
“Whether you ’ re an expert with the needles or a curious beginner, come along and knit or crochet a beanie for a newborn These warm and love-filled beanies will be donated to babies born at local hospitals, helping welcome them into the world with care and compassion,” said Oxley
Wool and needles will be available, and volunteers will be on hand to guide those taking part “This is more than a crafting event; it’s a celebration of ubuntu, of giving back, and of coming together as a community
“So gather your friends, your granny or your kids and join us for some heartwarming creativity Let’s turn Longbeach Mall into a hub of colour, kindness, and connection,” she said
The event will be hosted in partnership with 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day, a well-established, nationwide movement using knitting and crocheting as tools for social upliftment, warmth, and dignity
This particular initiative “Beanies for Babies” focuses on providing comfort to the youngest members of our society while promoting community unity, skill-sharing, and compassion
. For details call Oxley at 082 303 6798.
BEANIES FOR BABIES
Abalonesinksbaddriver
NoticeisherebygivenofanapplicationforEnvironmentalAuthorisation(EA)Applicationandpublicparticipationprocessin termsoftheEnvironmentalImpactAssessment(EIA)Regulations2014(asamended),promulgatedintermsoftheNational EnvironmentalManagementAct,1998(No.107of1998)(NEMA).
NameofApplicant:MainStreet1549(Pty)Ltd(MainStreet)
NatureandLocationofProposedActivity:MainStreetheldExplorationRight12/3/067overBlock11B/12B locatedoffthe SouthCoastofSouthAfrica,roughlybetweenMosselBayandCapeSt.Francis.
MainStreetisapplyingforEAtoconductnon-intrusivesurveysovertheareaofinterest(AOI)whichisapproximately65-190 kmoffshoreinwaterdepthsbetween100mand2200m. Theproposedsurveysincludebathymetry,sonar,seafloorsampling, metocean,andROVsurveysinamaximumsurveyareaofinterestmeasuring8620km2withinportionsofBlock11B/12Band Block9.Thefindingsofthissurveywillprovideessentialdatathatinformthepotentialfutureproductionapproaches.
ApplicationforEnvironmentalAuthorisation:IntermsoftheEIARegulations,2014(asamended),theproposedproject requiresEnvironmentalAuthorisationasittriggersthefollowinglistedactivities: ListingNotice1(R.983of2014asamended):19A:(relatedto[…]removalormovingofsoil[…]ofmorethan5m3fromthesea fortheseabedsampling);
Listing Notice 2 (R.984 of 2014 as amended): 20: (related to any activity […] which requires a production right […] as the surveysareinfurtheranceofproposeddevelopmentandfutureproductioninBlock11B/12B).
EnvironmentalAssessmentPractitioner:SLRConsulting(SouthAfrica)(Pty)Ltd(SLR)hasbeenappointedbyMainStreet toundertaketheESIAprocessfortheproposedproject.SLRcontactdetails: Projecte-mail:11b12bsurveys@slrconsulting.com
• Tel:0214611118| SMS/WhatsApp:0715865881
Availability of Draft Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) Report for review and comment: The draft ESIAReport will be made available for a 30-day review and comment period from 14 July 2025 to 14August 2025 Copies of the draft ESIAReport and a Non-Technical Summary (NTS) will be available at the following locations / venues during the abovetimeframe: SLRWebsite:https://www.slrconsulting.com/public-documents/11b12bsurveys/
• Data Free Website (accessible from an internet-capable mobile phone without data charges):https://slrpublicdocs.datafree co/public-documents/11b12bsurveys/ • Various public venues along the coast – the list of venues is presented in the notification letter which can be downloaded from the SLR websites or can be sent via WhatsApp (detailsabove).
TheNTSisavailableinEnglish,AfrikaansandXhosaasadocumentoraudiofile. InvitationtoparticipateintheESIAprocessandattendpublicopendays:Toregisteras anInterestedand/orAffectedParty(I&AP)forthisESIAortoattendthein-personopendays, pleasecompletetheregistrationformbyscanningtheQRCode(orfollowingthewebsitelink provided). Please note that only registered I&AP's will be directly informed of future project information and opportunities for participation.Therefore, please do submit the registration form or alternatively contact SLR using the details provided above in order to receive the project information and opportunities for participation. Further information can be obtained ontheSLRWebsiteslistedabove.
The following public open days are scheduled during the comment period: Mossel Bay (14 July 2025), George (15 July 2025), Knysna (16 July 2025), Plettenberg Bay (17 July 2025),StormsRiver(18July2025),Kareedouw(19July2025),JeffreysBay(21July2025) St Francis Bay (22 July 2025). Further details (venues and times) are available in the notificationletterwhichcanbedownloadedfromtheSLRwebsites. PublicMeeting(Virtual)
Furthertotheabove,anonlinemeeting(MicrosoftTEAMS)willbeheldon24July2025at14:00.Toattendtheonlinemeeting, please visit the meeting l nk provided: https://events teams microsoft com/event/304abb21-e9b3-46bc-980bca8059d1998a@109cec53-a877-42eb-93e8-b9f5c282ba38 or scan the QR code
managedinaccordancewiththeProtectionofPersonalInformationAct 2013(POPI) NOTICEOFSOCIALANDLABOURPLAN(SLP)UPDATEPROCESS InadditiontotheEAapplication,MainStreethasappointedEVASolutionstocompileanupdatedSLPfortheBlock11B/12B
A 27-year-old man was arrested after he was stopped and searched for a traffic violation and found with two bags of abalone
A City traffic officer spotted the man driving “recklessly” along Glencairn Expressway at around 07:30 on Wednesday morning 2 July
The driver of a Chev Spark allegedly overtook another vehicle on a solid line and sped away
The traffic officer pulled him over and noticed a number of bags in the back of his vehicle
The driver also behaved in a suspicious manner, and so the officer requested permission to conduct a search He found two bags filled with abalone and immediately placed the man under arrest He was detained at Simon’s Town Police Station Officials from the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and the Environment were alerted
The quantity and estimated value of the abalone are yet to be determined
Last year at a previous 67 Blankets event the public could knit blankets to honour Mandela
A Area codes unlock our history
Eve O’Connor (Fish Hoek) with her artwork, Tied Between, features found branches, grasses, vines, string with cable ties intermingled and natural cotton string
Youngmindsexplorecity’stransporthub
NAMHLAMONAKALI
A group of young leaders from the Junior City Council (JCC) took to the streets of Cape Town on Monday 30 June to confront the challenges of the city’s complex public-transport system
Accompanied by Ward 59 councillor Mikhail Manuel, the youth delegation visited several major transport hubs, including the Top Deck minibus taxi rank, Cape Town Train Station, and the Adderley Street MyCiTi station, engaging directly with the infrastructure and people who keep the system running
The excursion formed part of a civic educ ation initiative aimed at equipping the young councillors with practical insights into how policy de-
cisions affect daily lives for thousands of commuters
“Walking through the city made me realise how many people rely on public transport just to survive,” said Junior Deputy Mayor Michael Bam
“We need to make it safer and more reliable, not just for us as future leaders, but for the people using it today ”
The walkabout concluded with a debate session, where junior councillors discussed ways to improve safety, mobility and inclusivity in the transport network
According to Manuel, the session revealed a depth of engagement and curiosity among the youth leaders
“We wanted to help them grapple with the complexities of what it is to govern, understanding what happens
behind the scenes They found it incredibly interesting, especially when it came to how the budget is allocated and which priorities are chosen It really sparked some robust debate ” Manuel added that youth engagement should not be viewed as symbolic
“These young leaders are not rehearsing for a future role; they’re participating now Their questions are already shaping how we think about inclusive, future-focused governance ”
Cape Town’s public transport system is made up of both state-managed and privately operated services
“While the MyCiTi bus network is reliable in certain areas, most residents still rely on minibus taxis and
a deteriorating rail system Exposure to these challenges is considered vital for nurturing informed and active citizens,”added Manuel
“The initiative is part of an ongoing effort to reposition the Junior City Council as a body that meaningfully contributes to public dialogue and policy discussions, not just one with ceremonial functions ”
With updates to the City’s Integrated Public Transport Network plan on the horizon, officials say youth participation is more important than ever
Michael Roman alongside his artwork titled, Mirror of the Soul, made from found glass and mirror, mosaic tiles
!Khuboab Lawrence and his artwork Hû Khoese Haka Koro (7945)
Ilana Kotze from Observatory
Ward 59 councillor Mikhail Manuel engaging Junior city council councillors
PHOTO: SUPPL ED
Animals left out in winter cold
NAMHLAMONAKALI
As Cape Town braces for yet another wave of severe winter weather, animals in informal settlements are silently suffering often overlooked as residents scramble for safety and warmth
“We’ve been inundated with calls, almost 60% of them involve animals exposed to the elements,” says Belinda Abraham, spokesperson for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA
With strong winds and disruptive rainfall battering the metro, particularly flood-prone areas on the Cape Flats, the organisation has ramped up its emergency response
“Animals suffer silently,” Abraham warned “We must remember that during extreme weather, they depend entirely on us for shelter and protection ”
In partnership with the City of Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management Centre, the SPCA has already rescued a number of domestic and farm animals from dangerous conditions, some from shelters that failed, others from owners unable to afford repairs
Their inspectors are on high alert and are ready to respond at a moment’s notice
“The low-lying areas, including most of the Cape Flats and informal settlements, are of highest concern, ” Abraham confirmed “We’ve been proactive in these areas, which were already waterlogged last week, and our efforts have intensified ”
In e-yardini, Samora Machel, 27-year-old Phumla Mqhele clutched a thin blanket around her shivering dog, Siza “He was crying all night,” she said “He can’t sleep inside ” Mqhele, like many others, must navigate the harsh reality of poverty while trying to care for her pets “I try to keep him safe, but sometimes I must choose between buying food for both of us ”
Although the City has not yet activated its Joint Operations Centre (JOC), the SPCA is standing by 0“A JOC is usually activated at very short notice,” Abraham explained “We’re ready to join the coordinated response when it’s triggered ” The SPCA is urging pet owners to
PlannedCoastalParkLandfill expansionopenforcomment
The public participation process to submit comments on the possibility of expanding the Coastal Park Landfill officially began on Tuesday 24 June and will run until Wednesday 25 July
In response to the growing demand for effective waste management in Cape Town, the City has identified an urgent need to expand the existing Coastal Park Landfill Site, located on the remaining portion of Erf 93284, by significantly increasing its airspace capacity and extending its operational lifespan
This extension is intended to accommodate the increasing volumes of waste generated by Cape Town’s residents, ensuring continued access to safe, compliant waste disposal services while protecting both the environment and public health
Without the additional airspace, the City of Cape Town could face significant traffic disruptions and socio-economic strain on both residents and businesses
These impacts could be avoided if approval is granted
Moreover, existing refuse transfer stations may not have the capacity to manage the diverted waste
The current fleet of collection vehicles, which is not suited for long distance hauling, further
highlights the urgent need for an additional and locally based refuse transfer station, with planning already under way However, existing facilities may have scheduled refurbishment and maintenance programmes that could be leveraged to accommodate the increased waste volumes more effectively
“It’s also crucial to keep this facility operating as an easily accessible alternative so that the public do not resort to illegal dumping, which will have dire consequences for our environment, as well as significant economic implications,” said the City’s Mayco member for urban waste management, Grant Twigg
OPPORTUNITYTOPARTICIPATEANDAVAILABILITY OFTHEPRE-APPLICATIONBASICASSESSMENT REPORT(PABAR):
The PABAR is available for public review and comment at the Muizenberg Public Library (cnr of Atlantic and Beach roads, Muizenberg) and electronically on the RMS website
All comments on the PABAR should be sent via post or e-mail to Resource Management Services on or before Friday 25 July
. To register as an interested and/or affected party contact Larry Eichstadt on 082 444 2630 or larry@rmsenviro co za
act early and bring animals indoors where possible, provide dry bedding, and ensure that food and water sources aren’t contaminated by floodwater
To support their efforts, the organisation is appealing for public help “Please take care of your animals,
and call the SPCA if you need to evacuate and have animals needing safekeeping,” Abraham said “Look out for animals in distress, stray pets, wild animals like baby birds, or porcupines washed from stormwater drains ” Report emergencies to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA at 021 700 4158 or 083 326 1604 (after hours) Donations of blankets, kennels, and pet food are also urgently needed
Cape of good hope
Cityentitiescollaborate
KAYLYNNEBANTOM
As the cold winter days set in those living on the streets are among the hardest hit Fortunately, thanks to a blanket drive launched by three local businesses, some may now sleep a little more warmly
The Cape Town Central City Improvement District (CCID) has partnered with City Sightseeing (the “Red Bus” company) and Kamili Coffee for a blanket drive as part of a Mandela Day initiative
Tara Gerardy-Bissolati, CCID social-development manager, said the initiative is the brainchild of the City Sightseeing They invited the CCID to join the project
“Madiba Day is a powerful reminder that small acts of kindness can bring lasting change, and we are proud to join forces with City Sightseeing on this initiative ”
Gerardy-Bissolati said they are relying on the generosity of the public to make the project a success
“Any donation is welcome, even one blanket will make a difference The blanket collection point is in the heart of the CBD, in our footprint, and the CCID’s social-development department works tirelessly to assist homeless individuals in our footprint We are therefore able to distribute the blankets to those in need ”
She said that the blankets will be donated to the CCID’s partner organisations, The Haven Night Shelter WO Cape Town and Youth Solutions Africa
Gerardy-Bissolati said the handover will take place on Monday 21 July
“The Haven Night Shelter and Youth Solutions Africa are two valuable partner NGOs of the CCID’s social-development department Through these two institutions we can expand our ability to offer transitional-housing options and shelter capacity for the homeless, providing crucial support as they work towards stable living conditions ”
She added that the blankets will be used at these institutions on CCID-funded beds
“While this is mainly a blanket drive, if they
(people) would like to donate other items, CCID Social Development will assist in their distribution to homeless clients on the streets of the CBD ”
When dropping a blanket patrons will get a free cup of coffee from Kamili Coffee
“They can collect blankets among friends and family and do a collective drop-off, in that way spreading the Madiba love ”
Gerardy-Bissolati said Mandela Day provides a much-needed opportunity for people to stepup and help those in need
“Issues surrounding homelessness are complex and everyone is a human being and deserves to be treated like they would like to be treated themselves – with kindness, compassion and respect We are extremely grateful for the public’s generosity This drive is a powerful reminder that small acts of kindness can bring lasting change ”
Blankets can be dropped off at City Sightseeing Stop 5, 81 Long Street, which is also home to the coffee shop
People who would like to make a monetary donation to the CCID Show You Care fundraising arm can SMS “Give” to 38088 Each SMS costs R10, of which an average R8 goes to Show You Care
‘We don’t need dialogue’ - Bell
NAMHLAMONAKALI
Twenty people killed One week One province And one side of the mountain.
As a string of mass shootings continue to rock Cape Town, particularly the Cape Flats and the townships, residents are running out of words and patience
In the latest incident, seven men were gunned down in yet another brazen act of violence that has pushed the week’s death toll to over 20 across Cape Town’s gang-ravaged communities
While government leaders scramble for statements and police plead for public assistance, one resident’s voice has captured national attention, cutting through the official responses with raw and urgent truth
Tarryn Bell, a community activist from Hanover Park, took to social media on Monday 30 June with a public letter expressing deep frustration at what she describes as the state’s ongoing failure to protect its most vulnerable citizens
“This isn’t a war zone, it’s our communities Our Cape Flats Our sons and daughters,” she wrote “Yet politicians are too busy fighting each other They have an actual budget for it ”
In the post, which has since been widely circulated, Bell criticises both national and provincial leadership for what she describes as “ performance over protection” and “conversation over intervention” Her comments are directed in part at the government’s R700 million allocation for a National Dialogue on social cohesion “We don’t need another dialogue,” she wrote “We need leadership with a conscience We need action, justice, and protection ” Her words echo the despair and anger felt b f iti i l di
WE NEED LEADERSHIP WITH A CONSCIENCE.WE NEED ACTION,JUSTICE, AND PROTECTION.
“One thing that is crystal clear is that murderers are out there to kill,” Mchunu said “The situation demands a targeted approach before these murderers intensify their terror ” But for residents like Bell, these statements sound all too familiar
“We bury children weekly under the shadow of our mountain,” she said “How can we talk about democracy when the people aren’t governing and promises lie broken in pools of blood?”
DIVIDEDBYTHERAILWAYLINE
Bell’s statement draws a sharp contrast between life on the Cape Flats and life elsewhere in the city, highlighting how unity and celebration in one part of Cape Town with fans who geared up for the weekend’s Springbok rugby matches is matched by mourning and fear in another
“Today, the rugby awaits many on this side of the railway line; cheers, beers, and Green-andGold,” she wrote
“But on the other side in silver hokkies and backyard pandokkies we are crying out for a reckoning ”
“NOTNORMAL”
While the police minister called for the mobilisation of all available law enforcement resources, many residents remain sceptical “C iti t b b d d t li i
The blanket drive of the CCID and its partner organisations form part of a Mandela Day initiative.
When arts and education connect
Young people from across the city had the opportunity to showcase their creativity at the Arts Aweh programme.
The City’s community, arts and culture development department (CACD) hosted various classes and exhibitions for aspiring young artists over the past seven months
The final event took place on Monday 30
June
The Arts Aweh! programme provided young people, aged six to 18, with creative learning experiences and an opportunity to participate in various art forms
The programme started in November and attracted 3 173 students
The Arts Aweh is an after-school programme designed to create opportunities for young people to explore and experience arts and cultural activities that are constructive, educational and fun It was hosted at 13 City-owned spaces throughout the City
Activities included drawing, painting, photography, hip hop, dance, performance, poetry, clay work and beading
The programme also created job opportunities for young creatives, through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)
As part of the initiative the department held eight exhibitions during May and June in Ocean View, Athlone, Bonteheuwel, Rocklands, Bel-
THE PROJECT SHOWS THE ARTS SPARK IMAGINATION AND CONNECTIONS.
har, Eerste River, Mfuleni and Mamre, where learners showcased their art
The exhibitions included 3D artwork made from recycled material, canvas painting, drawings, functional art pieces, clay work, sand art and rock art
During the exhibitions, students participated in mini-concerts and fashion shows where they showcased their poetry, drama, dance and clothing they created from recycled material
Francine Higham, Mayco member for community services, said programmes such as Arts
Aweh! give young people the tools and confidence to express themselves creatively, while also building valuable life skills
“It’s inspiring to see how the arts can spark imagination, foster connection and uplift communities Not only does it help children develop fine motor skills and build self-esteem, but it also encourages self-expression where children can explore and communicate their emotions ”
She said the City will continue to create opportunities and programmes where young people can learn and experience the beauty of art in its various forms
Mzibacktolaunchnewalbum withoneshowinCapeTown
Lumanyano Mzi, one of South Africa’s most exciting jazz exports, is back on home soil this July to launch his new solo album, Ithemba Elitsha – A New Hope
This body of work is deeply rooted in his Cape Town beginnings but shaped by his global journey and training at Berklee in the United States of America (USA)
The album is a bold, genre-fluid, deeply layered and spiritually charged new album that feels both timeless and urgent It was released on Friday 4 July, the American Independence Day
“Ithemba Elitsha” translates to “A New Hope”, and the music delivers exactly that - not just sonically, but emotionally and spiritually
This is Mzi’s first solo album and third as a bandleader, and it cements his place among the new vanguard of global jazz artists fusing heritage with modernity, complexity with clarity
Two singles released in the lead-up to the full album have already set a high bar “Lioness” was released on Friday 6 June It’s a sultry, defiant tribute to feminine power Anchored by a hypnotic groove and luminous horn arrangements, the track roars softly, speaking to the quiet strength of those who carry entire world with grace
“Youth of ’76”, which was released on Friday 13 June, is a sonic reflection on South Africa’s Youth Day This track pulses with raw energy, resilience and memory
There’s pain here, but also power - a nod to the student uprisings, and a reminder of how far
we ’ ve come, and how far we still have to go
Both singles offer a glimpse into the full body of work, which blends Afro-jazz, soul, reggae and gospel into a rich, genre-fluid soundscape
Mzi’s signature is everywhere - in the intuitive
drumming, in the reverent storytelling, and in the understated but purposeful arrangements
The Ensemble of Unity True to the meaning of his name, “Lumanyano” - unity, Mzi has assembled a stellar multinational band for this album, with the upcoming South Africa tour featuring: Simon Manana (alto sax, RSA/USA) Jean Strauss (tenor sax, RSA/USA) Ciara Moser (bass, AUT/USA), Kevin Harris (piano, USA) Isaac Romagosa (guitar, ESP/USA) Together, this ensemble delivers a shared vision of global harmony rooted in African identity
The show will be at Youngblood Gallery on Thursday 10 July Thandeka Dladla and Sipha Mdlalose will be the guests It starts at 19:00 Tickets cost R250
JosephwillreturninOctober
The smash-hit musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat has sold out its initial run at Theatre on the Bay in record time This prompted producers Pieter Toerien and the Luitingh Alexander Musical Theatre Academy (Lamta) to announce its return on Saturday 4 October due to overwhelming public demand The current season ends on Sunday 13 July
Since its opening on Friday 9 May, the production has captivated audiences with eight shows a week, garnering rave reviews and playing to capacity houses nightly Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, created by the legendary duo Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, is a global musical phenomenon Performed hundreds of thousands of times across over 80 countries, with
notable runs on Broadway and the West End, the musical features beloved hits such as “Any Dream Will Do,” “Close Every Door,” and “Go, Go, Go Joseph ” This vibrant production boasts an all-star cast led by Dylan Janse van Rensburg as Joseph, Lelo Ramasimong as the Narrator, and Chris Jaftha as Pharaoh Under the direction of Luitingh and Alexander, with musical supervision by Charl-Johan Lingenfelder and musical direction by Amy Campbell, the show delivers a fresh and exhilarating interpretation of the classic tale
Tickets for the October return are priced from R175 . Book at Webtickets or Theatre on the Bay’s box office at 021 438 3300
A scene with Joseph’s brothers in Joseph and
The programme started in November, attracting 3 173 learners PHOTOS SUPPL ED
Lumanyano Mzi in town for a show PHOTO ANDILE BHALA
The initiative is an after-school programme designed to create opportunities for young people to explore and experience arts and cultural activities
Young people from across Cape Town had the opportunity to showcase their creativity
