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
Brotherlylovegoesalongwayintryingtimes
known as Luigi, whom he met a few hours before the game
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,
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 it’s even more needed today than it was 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 households, especially low-income and vulner-
able 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
JOURNO’S VOICE
KAYLYNNE BANTOM
Combi court boost for local sport
CShopofHorrorsatMasque
The public is encouraged to attend a local adaptation of the famous musical play, Little Shop of Horrors at the Masque theatre in Muizenberg next month
The play will be performed from Thursday 21 August to Saturday 6 September The theatre is a registered non-profit organisation (NPO) that was established in 1959 by local attorney Bertie Stern It is a rehearsal space for amateur enthusiasts and seasoned professionals to practise their craft and sharpen their acting chops The play will be directed by Jeffrey Johnson while Musical Direction will be tackled by John McGuiness
Parking is available at the venue as well as wheelchair access .For details email manager@themasque.co.za.
Gregan Aherin will take on the role of Seymour during the Masque’s theatre adaptation of the famous musical play, ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ at The Masque theatre in Muizenberg
PHOTO: Clive Myburgh
‘Wedon’tneeddialogue’
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
adding that traditional methods of policing were insufficient to meet the threat posed by organised criminal groups
“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
FROMPAGE1
“The City’s NGO partners will provide humanitarian relief, while the Roads and Infrastructure Management department has been requested to provide sand and milling ” According to Powell DRM will continue to conduct assessments in informal settlements situated in low-lying areas, while the Catchment, Stormwater and River Management branch is monitoring waterways (rivers and canals) “While the worst of the rainfall is behind
us the cold and damp conditions will persist The city has availed seven drop-off sites for donations of non-perishable foodstuff ” These sites are the fire stations in Constantia, Goodwood, Hout Bay, Lakeside, Roeland Street, Strand and Wynberg They are open 24-hours a day
Donors can also email Disaster Donations@ capetown gov za for collection
To report and any dangerous flooding situations call 021 480 7700
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 across a number of communities including Manenberg, Bishop Lavis, Bonteheuwel, and Mitchells Plain where funerals now outnumber public meetings, and gunshots have replaced the sounds of children at play
“KILLINGFIELDSOFTHEWESTERNCAPE”
Responding to the violence that has engulfed the province, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu admitted the scale and brutality of the killings had reached crisis levels
“There is no doubt that the Cape Flats in Cape Town have indeed become the killing fields of the Western Cape,” Mchunu conceded during a media briefing
He called on police top management to implement decisive and extraordinary measures,
“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
“Communities cannot be abandoned to live in fear and under siege,” Mchunu said “We urge the National Commissioner and his team to act urgently ”
But trust in the police remains low Years of unsolved murders, alleged corruption, and limited visible policing have left many feeling not only vulnerable but voiceless
“We are not waiting for another election,” Bell concluded
“We are calling for accountability, and a reckoning ”
As funerals are planned and candles lit, the question remains: when will leaders move from words to will and restore peace to the communities trapped beneath the weight of promises never kept?
Do you have information about the the recent mass shootings or recent gang activity?
. Contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 All reports can be made anonymously.
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, Belhar, 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
VACANCY BULLETIN
EXCITING OPPORTUNITY FOR PEOPLE WHO WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
DEPARTMENT OF INFRASTRUCTURE
SCAN CENTRE OPERATOR: ELECTRONIC RECORDS MANAGEMENT
Salary: R163 680 – R192 810 per annum (Salary level 3)
Component: Electronic Records Management (Programme 1)
Enquiries person: Ms Yvonne Ngwane at (021) 483 4888 Reference number: DOI 93/2025
Job purpose: The Department of Infrastructure, Western Cape Government has an opportunity for a competent individual to render an effective scan operations support service to all branches of the department
Requirements: Junior Certificate (Grade 10 or equivalent qualification)
Recommendation: Records Management course • Appropriate experience in the field of electronic records management
Key performance areas: Prepping of documents • Scanning of documents • DePrepping of documents/files • Quality assurance • Scanning of vital records
Competencies: Knowledge and understanding of the following: Operating equipment • Internal office procedures e g copy sort fax and verify document legibility Principles and processes for providing customer and personal services (e g quality standards, etc); Applicable information management systems Procedures for receiving responding to and managing requests / enquiries • Operation and maintenance of office machines and other equipment • Skills of the following: Good communication; Computer literacy; Planning; Problem solving
NB: Applicants from relevant local communities will receive preferences The selection process will be guided by the EE targets of the employing department Candidates will be subjected to a medical fitness test as prescribed by the Construction Regulations as contained in OHS Act 85/1993 Candidates will also be required to complete a practical exercise as part of the interview process
To apply, please complete an application form (Z 83) and current CV (5 pages maximum) together with copies of ID Academic qualifications and proof of other requirements as indicated in the advertisement The post being applied for and the reference number must be clearly indicated on the Z83 application form
To submit your application there are 3 methods in which you can apply please only use 1 of the following: 1. Hand deliver your application for Attention: Western Cape Government Jobs 44 Gannet Street Pelican Heights Cape Town (From Monday to Friday between 07:00am to 17:00pm); Or 2 Post your application for Attention: Western Cape Government Jobs PO Box 22432, Fish Hoek; Or 3 Email your application to, westerncape@respond co za Clearly indicate the reference number of post in email subject line and ensure attachments are in the appropriate format (MS Word or PDF)
Applications not submitted on or before the closing date as well as faxed copies will not be considered If you did not receive any correspondence within 3 months of closing date consider your application as unsuccessful
The programme started in November, attracting 3 173 learners. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Young people from across Cape Town had the opportunity to showcase their creativity.
Area codes unlock our history
look at My work aims to speak to the duality and interpretation of objects
Although broken glass is not pretty to look at, it can hold its own unique beauty,” he says Lawrence says his artwork, Hû Khoese Haka Koro (7945) comprises wooden railway sleepers, found sign, rope and enamel paint
“The Simon’s Town railway runs straight through the 7945 area code, splitting it in half On the left side sit areas like Tokai, Constantia and many more affluent areas On the right lie areas like Retreat, Heathfield, and the Cape Flats Every day I cross this railway on my commute between my home in Retreat and school in Tokai
“The effects of spatial segregation are clear as I see the landscape change from greenery to brown-grey The railway line still divides two areas that starkly contrast each other,” he explains This artwork is constructed from a handmade railway sign with real railroad sleepers
“The work’s connection to train tracks links it to my area code, 7945, representing the modernised division that can be seen, symbolising the lingering effects of apartheid and colonialism use of an old sign, not fully cleaned or d, but simply painted over in an attempt ade to look new, speaks to how the full of apartheid’s consequences and the of the historical mistreatment of people ur, ” he said Town-based schools who offer visual art ic interested in next year ’ s Matric Workan email to: tion@zeitzmocaa museum for applica-
Michael Roman alongside his artwork titled, Mirror of the Soul, made from found glass and mirror, mosaic tiles
Eve O’Connor (Fish Hoek) with her artwork, Tied Between, features found branches, grasses, vines, string with cable ties intermingled and natural cotton string
Animals left out in winter cold
Juventus’ Niyaaz Hart and Pioneers’ Lukho Veli tussle for the ball during the u-16 Bayview Youth Cup. Read more on the back page.
PHOTO: LAUREN O CONNOR-MAY
Avuyila Dayimani gets
is distributed every Tuesday and reach an estimated 419 650 readers
