People's Post - 19 May 2020

TUESDAY 19 May 2020 | Tel: 021 910 6500 | Email: post@peoplespost.co.za | Website: www.peoplespost.co.za

@ThePeoplesPost

People’s Post

@peoplespostnewspaper

4

Get fit, healthy at home Exercise during the lockdown could be beneficial to keeping stress levels low and maintaining a healthy weight.

The extended period of isolation and varying stress could also have negative impact on your heart. Read more about how trainers and residents are keeping active during the lockdown. Pictured is personal trainer Reemay Damons during one of his aerobics sessions before the lockdown. Read story on page 6. PHOTO: SAMANTHA LEE-JACOBS

Help Tears feed vulnerable animals

4 Brothers reach out to needy in Holy month

LOCKDOWN

6

Mental health focus NETTALIE VILJOEN NETTALIE.VILJOEN@MEDIA24.COM

W

hile governments and economists diligently count the lives and revenues lost when describing the severe consequences of Covid-19, the serious effect the pandemic could have on mental health is in danger of being overlooked.

Dylan Oktober, public relations (PR) and communications manager at Cape Mental Health (CMH), says since the start of the lockdown, they have received several calls from the public highlighting issues with strong reference to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Apart from our existing client base who have been making use of our services for years, the increase in calls from new referrals were predominantly around their livelihoods and the changes that are taking place,” he says.

Oktober states that CMH’s team of social workers are spending a lot of time containing various mental health issues around clients’ fears and concerns about rules and reg-

ulations. Uncertainty surrounding the progression of the levels of lockdown, information overload and fake news were also found to spur on mental health concerns and raise levels of anxiety.

Many calls received were from people needing assistance with food relief, anxiety and depression as well as issues around cigarettes and how they were battling to cope.

CMH also noted an increase in calls from families who are challenged with a loved one who has a mental health condition.

To best prepare ourselves for what lies ahead, Oktober says, we first need to understand and accept the fact that this is an unprecedented situation and there is no quick fix or specific guideline our society can use to overcome this.

“We are learning to safeguard ourselves against a threat we have never faced before.

It requires an open mind-set coupled with critical thinking. We encourage people to stay well-informed to make the appropriate choices,” he says.

Family matters The national lockdown has engineered ex-

treme situations – in one scenario you have large families squeezed into small spaces and in the other, you have a single person living on their own, completely isolated.

An upsurge in gender-based violence cases has been linked to the first. Oktober says an unprecedented pandemic of this nature can stir up a number of trauma responses.

He stresses the importance of supporting one another during this time.

“Communication needs to compliment that support because our families are the only people we can engage with at present.

Squabbles and frustrations are a norm, given the situation, and can be resolved instantly if there is an open line of communication and understanding.”

CMH applauds president Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to prioritise and implement protocol around gender-based violence and domestic abuse during this indefinite lockdown period.

“We urge people who do not feel safe at home to please reach out to the various resources and organisations available to assist where they can,” says Oktober.

V Continued on page 2

What Capetonians miss most during lockdown

"Facts, not fear"

NICD CORONAVIRUS HOTLINE

0800 029 999

2 NEWS

PEOPLE'S POST | FALSE BAY Tuesday, 19 May 2020

Community alert results in arrest of two suspects Two suspects were arrested in Capri Village last week and have been charged with possession of presumed stolen property as well as for breaking lockdown regulations.

“Our Far South community hub received an alert early on Monday morning (4 May around 03:11) about suspicious activity picked up by CCTV cameras in the Capri Village greenbelt. The area’s dedicated response vehicle went to investigate but no sign of any suspects could be found,” said Jade Hanning, Cape Town south district manager at Fidelity ADT. The hub received another report later that same morning, at about 05:40, says Hanning; this time of shouting and screaming heard close to Clipperton Close.

“Our dedicated response vehicle was again deployed to investigate, with the backup from other vehicles. Two suspects were located, walking towards Kommetjie Road, with a gas bottle and a bag in their possession,” he explains.

The suspects were asked why they were walking along the road that early in the morning and how they came to have the gas bottle and the bag in their possession.

Hanning says they could not provide any plausible explanation.

“Members of the Fish Hoek police station arrived on the scene, as they were also alerted to the shouts and screams heard earlier. They searched the bag and found electrical equipment inside which the suspects could not account for. Both were taken into custody, and they have been charged under the Disaster Management Act and also for the possession of presumed stolen items,” says Hanning.

“Armed response officers remain on patrol throughout the lockdown and we work closely with the police and law enforcement to maintain safety and security. Remote monitoring systems, such as the CCTV cameras in the Far South, offer us another valuable tool to keep a watchful eye on suburbs. I urge residents to keep the contact numbers for security role-players and the police handy and to immediately raise the alarm if any suspicious activity is noticed.”

V Report any suspicious activity to the Fidelity ADT Far South hub on 021 785 7093.

FROM PAGE 1 Those who live on their own are encouraged to make use of the number of communication devices and apps to bridge the physical gap between them and their loved ones.

“We recommend that people connect and touch base with family and friends.

And stay productive.”

In addition to working from home, Oktober says it is important that you stimulate your mind with activities you find interesting, hobbies you probably always wanted to try out or chores you never got around to. “These activities will help to take your mind off the current situation and leave you with a sense of accomplishment once you have completed a task.

This allows your body to produce serotonin – also known as the ‘happy chemical’.”

Dealing with depression Depression is something that many people struggle with under “normal” circumstances. The fear exists that the additional stressers associated with Covid-19 could lead to an increase in suicides.

Oktober says CMH cannot support these claims at such a premature stage of the lockdown.

“But I can highlight this a major con-

Scammers pose as officers, con residents for cash

People's Post is published by WP Media, a subsidiary of Media24.

WHOM TO CONTACT

KAYLYNNE BANTOM

EDITOR: Thulani Magazi Tel: 021 910 6500 / 6530 Email: Thulani@media24.com

KAYLYNNE.BANTOM@MEDIA24.COM

SALES MANAGER: Shafiek Braaf Tel: 021 910 6500 / 6615 Email: Shafiek.Braaf@peoplespost.co.za> CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING: 087 353 1328 Email: classifieds@peoplespost.co.za PRESS CODE, CORRECTIONS People's Post 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 cecilia@peoplespost.co.za or phone 021 910 6500. Alternately, please contact the Ombudsman of Media24's Community Press, George Claassen at george.claassen@media24.com or 083 543 2471.

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

The Table Bay Harbour police have warned that scammers are becoming more creative in conning people out of their money. Lt Col Henry Heydenreich, station commander, says scammers are preying on victims of stolen items such as motorcycles, vehicles or cellphones.

According to Heydenreich the thieves’ modus operandi is to contact victims pretending to be a police officer stating that their stolen item has been recovered. He says the thief would then inform the victim that in order to reclaim their stolen items they would need to pay a certain amount of money.

Heydenreich says: “When a complainant reports a case of theft of motor vehicle or motorcycle, they will get the contact details of the investigating officer. Only that officer will update the complainant about their case, no one else.”

Heydenreich adds that when a complainant receives a phone call regarding their

case from someone other than from the appointed investigating officer they should raise alarm.

“We had a case recently where a complainant was contacted and money was demanded. The complainant was told that their vehicle was found and that they need to make a monetary payment.

“The complainant complied and after a few days realised that it was a scam,” explained Heydenreich.

Heydenreich reminded the public that when a criminal case is opened at any police station, the complainant will receive an SMS detailing the case number and the contact details of the investigating officer assigned to that specific case.

Heydenreich explained that when contacted by someone other than the investigating officer, the complainant should write down the following particulars: . officer’s name and ranking; . service number; . where the officer is stationed; . contact number.

Heydenreich adds that victims who have been scammed in this manner should open a case at their nearest police station.

www.peoplespost.co.za facebook.com/PeoplesPostNewsPaper twitter.com/ThePeoplesPost peoplespostnewspaper

G A R A G E D O O R S

New Installations & Repairs, Automation New Specials Offers!

Aluzinc Sectional Auto Doors: (inlude battery backup) Single - R7 700-00 | Double - R 11 000-00 Door motor R 3 200-00 | Repair call out R 100-00 Fully Automated Garage Doors R 12 000

Call Miles: 065 914 7756 www.playsafedoors.co.za X1W5R671-QK190520

EMS GETS A HELPING HAND: False Bay volunteer Emergency Medical Services received medical masks, sanitisers, liquid soap and gloves from Fidelity ADT on Thursday 30 April. “The service is completely staffed by volunteers and provide an essential service to people in the False Bay area, especially now that we are all dealing with the impact of Covid-19. We hope this donation will give them a boost and will keep their dedicated volunteers safe and protected as they look after people in False Bay,” says Jade Hanning, Cape Town south district manager at Fidelity ADT. Seen here: Tommy Milakovic and False Bay Volunteer EMS Michelle Tompson.

cern for our organisation. We have not seen a significant number of increases in relapses with our existing client base and are grateful for this. However, we are concerned that the effects of being in a lockdown could have severe implications for those with pre-existing conditions.”

He says that is why it is so important to spread the message of hope and to encourage everyone to keep this message alive.

“This pandemic has presented a unique set of circumstances for many people and highlighted many socio-economic challenges. We understand this has made staying positive and taking care of your mental health extremely difficult. We want to remind the public that you are not alone in this and we’re here to help where we can,” Oktober says.

To assist those in need of food relief, CMH is running a Covid-19 Food Relief drive. Those who are able to help a family in need are asked to either drop off their donation of non-perishable food items at the Training Workshops Unlimited located on the corner of Klipfontein and Johnson roads in Athlone (if living within a 5km radius) or to contact CMH to collect at residents’ door.

V Call 021 447 9040 or email info@cmh.org.za, Monday to Friday from 08:30 to 16:30, to speak to one of CMH’s mental health professionals or to arrange for the collection of donated food items.

MUIZENBERG | STEENBERG

Claims of police brutality probed A

fter reports of incidents of police brutality at Muizenberg and Steenberg police stations, the provincial minister of community safety Albert Fritz has called for an investigation into the inefficiencies of police at these two stations.

The Western Cape Police Ombudsman (WCPO), JJ Brand, has agreed to investigate the police stations after Fritz wrote to him on Monday 11 May, requesting that an investigation be made following allegations of unprofessional conduct towards residents at both police stations.

Among the incidents reported were those of police allegedly intimidating an elderly woman, a pregnant woman and several Muizenberg residents at Muizenberg police station.

According to Fritz, an officer was also quoted as saying: “I hope you get the virus.”

Fritz commented: “Of course, reports of police inefficiencies are not limited to Muizenberg police alone, and there are, in fact, frequently reported cases of police inefficiencies in our more vulnerable communities. It is unacceptable that police should act so aggressively towards the residents whom they are duty-bound to serve.”

He adds that on Thursday 23 April, it was reported that a Lavender Hill mother was left bruised and humiliated after Steenberg police officers allegedly arrested, physically assaulted and spat in her face when she went to seek help at the station. It is alleged that she was thrown into a holding cell and kept behind bars for hours after being told by officers to go and report an attempted burglary at the Steenberg police station.

Fritz says that while every person has a part to play in “flattening the curve”, all people still need to abide by the law, and keep a safe distance at all times.

However, if you are in need of assistance from authorities, you should not be afraid to seek it.

“I urge all members of the public who have experienced police inefficiencies or unprofessional conduct at any police station in the province to immediately come forward and report such to the Western Cape Police Ombudsman,” he concluded.

V Call 021 483 0669 or email ombudsman@wcpo.gov.za to report police inefficiencies.

NEWS 3

PEOPLE'S POST | FALSE BAY Tuesday, 19 May 2020

Homeless shelter site closed SAMANTHA LEE-JACOBS SAMANTHA.LEE@PEOPLESPOST.CO.ZA @SAMANTHA_LEE121

As the Strandfontein homeless shelter has now officially been closed, the controversy surrounding its origins have been put to bed.

Following months of backlash and community organisations expressing their dissatisfaction with the camp and its purpose, the camp will be empty by tomorrow, Wednesday 20 May. Of its 2 000 occupants recorded at its inception in early April, more than 1600 homeless residents have returned to the streets.

Residents were allowed to leave the camp from Friday 1 May, when lockdown regulations were eased to level four.

People’s Post spoke to some of the homeless residents who have returned to their original locations.

“We were forced to go there and did not want to be there. We prefer to be on our own and in our own time. We were fed, we had health checks but we were cramped together,” says Marlene Arendse, who has been on the streets for more than 20 years.

On a visit to the camp, many occupants expressed their grievances to the media, stating they wanted to leave.

Commenting when the camp was opened in April, Mayco member for safety and security JP Smith, said occupants could leave at their will. However, he cautioned they would face penalties in accordance with lockdown restrictions, should they be caught.

The camp has been met with multiple incidents, including a fight between residents, an alleged rape incident and fines issued for riotous behaviour.

Strandfontein civic organisations also banded together to take the City and mayor Dan Plato to court over the lack of consultation in establishing the camp.

Mayco member for community services and health, Zahid Badroodien defended the

REHABILITATION OF THE HOMELESS

decision not to consult residents at the time, saying due to the crisis and current pandemic, public participation was not on the cards.

In an interview with People’s Post last week, Mario Oostendurp, Strandfontein Ratepayers’ Association chair, said they were concerned with the health risk and overcrowded conditions at the camp “We understand that the city council had to respond to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and had to find accommodation for homeless people in the city, but this cannot be done in violation of the regulations,” he said.

The case was heard in the Cape High Court on Thursday 30 April and then postponed.

“The Strandfontein community brought an urgent application to the Western Cape High Court seeking the closure of the City of Cape Town’s temporary homeless shelter at the Strandfontein Sports Complex,” said Plato at the time. “The Court was critical of the community’s application in that it in effect sought to evict the homeless persons from the shelter during a pandemic and without citing the homeless persons as respondents in the application and without providing workable alternatives.”

Plato said the shelter cost the City many millions of Rands and that it was initially meant to be around for three months at least.

Residents are pleased that their desired outcome was met with the camp’s closure.

Badroodien highlighted that through its partnerships, the 356 persons who indicated they would like to be accommodated would be assisted at shelters where spaces have been secured. These include Haven Night Shelter, Oasis Reach for Your Dream, Ubuntu Circle of Courage, the Cape Flats YMCA, the Happy Valley Shelter, and more.

Badroodien also visited the Cullomborg Safe Space where homeless residents are currently being accommodated.

In addition, prefabricated structures will be placed on vacant City land next to existing shelters where this is a viable option.

Shift from relief to development key NETTALIE VILJOEN

A

s the curtain falls on the site at the Strandfontein Sports Ground, the City of Cape Town is taking steps to accommodate homeless people at shelters across the city. Of the just under 2 000 who were housed at Strandfontien, only 356 indicated they would prefer to remain in a “safe space” instead of returning to the streets.

The Mayco member for community services and health, Zahid Badroodien, has announced that the go-ahead had been given for the procurement of prefabricated structures to be placed on vacant City land next to existing shelters where viable.

“The benefit of this, rather than temporary pop-up shelters is that beds will remain available even after the Covid-19 pandemic for our homeless to access,” Badroodien said.

U-turn, a Christian non-governmental organisation (NGO) focused on the rehabilitation of the homeless, supports the City’s move to house people in smaller groups.

Sam Vos, chief executive officer of U-turn, says this will be less risky and volatile.

“Additionally, acknowledging that people cannot be forced into shelters is a step in the right direction, as is the City’s investment in long-term solutions so that resources are not splurged on a short-term response,” he says.

However, Vos says, once the prefabricated structures are in place, it is not clear what the City’s plan is to shift from relief to development. “This is key for effective use of resources. If there’s no effective rehabilitation and skills development in place, with carefully tracked and monitored outcomes, then it will again become a drain on our city’s re-

sources,” he says.

U-turn hopes the City’s prefabricated shelters will incorporate rehabilitative and longterm pathways out of homelessness.

“Relief that continues endlessly, ultimately becomes dependency and robs people of their ability to live independent and whole lives,” he says.

Vos suggests the City will need to shift from short-term reporting, such as “we have fed x number of people” to long-term goals, like “x number of people are now permanently employed and sober”.

“The great lesson from Covid-19 is the importance of a decentralised response – to rely more on partnerships to more effectively reach those in need. Resources are more effectively used and mobilised when you communicate with diverse partners spread across the City,” he says.

Another example of what can be achieved through teamwork is the Community Action Network (CAN). Vos says it has been astounding to see how residents have formed together into CAN networks to assist.

“There are still gaps, but for the most part, it appears that emergency relief is now steadily trickling to people stranded on the streets.

The feeling is much less overwhelming (than at the start of lockdown) thanks to CAN networks stepping in,” he says.

Residents are encouraged to work with their local service centres or CAN networks.

“If neither of these is available, and there is a group of 10 or more people living rough on the streets, get in touch with U-turn and we will do our best to help,” Vos concludes.

V To contact U-turn, email info@homeless.org.za or call 021 674 6119.

Kolnicks Linen S H E R AT O N T E X T I L E S

The Strandfontein Homeless Shelter has been closed and decomissioned.

Revive Your Living Space on a Budget

PHOTO: SAMANTHA

LEE-JACOBS

LENINGS LENINGS LENINGS

LENINGS

LENINGS

OF YOUR CREDITORS AND DEBT REVIEW IS JOU SKULD AGTERSTALLIG Do you have judgements on your name?

Dreig die balju of u skuldeisers jou?

Betaal jy maandelikse paaiement aan DEBT REVIEW en voel jy kom nêrens ?

Sms, please call me of gee n miss call en ons kontak jou dringend.

Vra ons oor ons unieke skriftelike geld-terug waarborg Geen deposito of voorafbetalings nie

LENINGS

LENINGS

LENINGS

LENINGS

VRA, VRA , VRA, voor u enige iets teken CAPE TOWN OFFICE NUMBER: 021-4194418 WINNIE: 078-982-2798 / 064-095-1908 / 021-401-1702 ZENOBIA: 083-710-4371 FELICIA: 063-471-3661 / 021-401-1701

LENINGS BESKIKBAAR

LENINGS

PETRO: 064-325-3088 (Ons kom spreek jou by die huis): Saldanha, Velddrif, Vredendal, Hopefield, Riebeek Wes, Riebeeck Kasteel, Darling, Atlantis, Van Rhynsdorp, Porterville, Citrusdal

LENINGS

MAROLIZE OFFICE: 023-342-1025 / 083-300-6220 (Ons kom spreek jou by die huis) Worcester, Paarl, Robertson, Ashton, Swellendam, Ceres, Bonnievale, Montagu, Mossel Bay, George, Oudtshoorn, Caledon, Grabouw, P.E, Knysna, Laingsburg

LENINGS

LENINGS

LENINGS

LENINGS

LENINGS

LENINGS

LENINGS

LENINGS

LENINGS

LENINGS

LENINGS

Winter is coming!

X1W5THUW-QK190520

Get ready with our range of winter warmers WINTER COMFORTERS Single Bed Three Quarter

Reduced

Now SAVE

219 100.00 249 100.00

Also available Double, queen and King – Limited quantity Pink check & blue stripe

Duvets

Embossed Microfibre Duvet Inners Now MASSIVE SAVING Queen size 299 100.00 King size

WINTER DUVET COVERS –

349

100.00

Single Bed Three quarter Double bed Queen size King Size

Keep it clean and cozy during Lockdown

MATTRESS PROTECTORS Toweling Laminated From R99.90 From R109.00 Pillow protectors All types From

39.90

Save

20.00

R229 R249 R329 R369 R439

Now only

179.00 199.00 269.00 329.00 359.00

Includes pillow cases, Assorted designs

Aranda Throws

More duvet inners reduced in store. limited quantity

Hygiene / Personal Care

was was was was was

from

299.00

Acylic and Cotton blend

Revive / Redecorate

“Creating a fresh look doesn't need to break the bank”

COMFORTERS: Double bed Queen size King Size

from from from

Assorted designs

129.00 179.00 189.00

Duvet Cover Sets 29.90 Bath Towels 49.90 Egyptian cotton 400 Thread Count Receive a free Guest towel Receive a free Mini Hand Towel Oxford style R379 save R200 Packet of 7 mini hand towels 89.95 Queen Size TOWELSHand towel

(one for each today of the week )

Colour: Stone

AT KOLNICKS LINEN OUR CUSTOMERS’ SAFETY IS OF THE UTMOST IMPORTANCE - WE HAVE IMPLEMENTED THE FOLLOWING HEALTH PRECAUTIONS IN ALL STORES: -HAND SANITIZERS ARE STATIONED AT ALL STORE ENTRANCES. PLEASE BE SURE TO MAKE USE OF THESE. -ALL CONTACT POINTS AT THE TILLS ARE BEING CLEANED AND SANITIZED ON A REGULAR BASIS. -PLEASE COOPERATE WITH SOCIAL DISTANCING - LEAVE A GAP OF AT LEAST A METRE BETWEEN YOU AND YOUR FELLOW SHOPPER.”

DIEP RIVER

Cnr Princess Vlei & De Waal Rd 087 470 0381

MONTE VISTA 14 Monte Vista Boulevard 021 558 0445

ATHLONE

Cnr Klipfontein & Old Klipfontein Rd 021 696 7053

SOMERSET WEST Builders Warehouse Lifestyle Centre 021 852 4482

BELLVILLE

14 Northumberland Rd 021 946 1900

RCS Cards accepted in all stores

LOTS MORE SPECIAL OFFERS IN STORE

X1W5R4M1-QK190520

4 NEWS

PEOPLE'S POST | FALSE BAY Tuesday, 19 May 2020

Animal welfare crisis rears its head as lockdown continues Tears Animal Rescue has launched a campaign to help feed animals in vulnerable, high-risk communities where pet owners are no longer able to afford food for their pets.

The Pay It Forward Pet Food Appeal invites the public to purchase a bag of pet food from the shelter’s online store. The bags will then be distributed to the most-affected communities.

“We cannot underestimate the impact the Covid-19 lockdown is having on people who have lost their source of income, been retrenched or been placed on unpaid leave.

This doesn’t only have dire consequences on the people living on or near the breadline, but it’s fast becoming an animal welfare crisis,” says Tears Animal Rescue’s general manager, Lauren Carlyle.

“Tears is receiving dozens of calls for help from financially compromised pet owners who aren’t able to feed or look after their pets. As conditions continue to deteriorate, we expect an increase in the number of cats and dogs being surrendered, abandoned or left to starve as owners struggle to put food on the table,” she says.

To create a sustainable income stream for animals in need, the shelter continues to operate its online store.

Marketing coordinator of the shelter Luke Kruyt comments: “We stock a wide range of premium pet food and pet supply brands, all sold at retail prices. However, the difference for the consumer is the peace of mind that comes from knowing their purchase supports a good cause. All profit generated from the Tears Online Shop fuel the care we pro-

vide and the work we do to help animals and the Tears online shop,” concludes Kruyt. support communities in need.”

V For more information, go to https://tears.org.za/ Profits made from pet food and supplies shop/. purchases – including treats, health and medication, and tick, flea and worm protection – are redirected to providing homeless animals rescue, relief and protection.

“Your contribution offers vulnerable animals a second chance.

Whether it’s to pay it forward or to buy your pet staples, use your shopping power for By simply buying a bag of pet food, residents can help pets from good by buying from Cape Town’s high-risk communities.

PHOTO: TEARS ANIMAL RESCUE

FLAMINGO HEIGHTS | RONDEBOSCH EAST

Community lends a helping hand AVRIL FILLIES AVRIL.FILLIES@MEDIA24.COM

R

ondebosch East residents have started an initiative to help feed the neighbouring community Flamingo Heights informal settlement outside Lansdowne during the lockdown.

“After concern was raised in our neighbourhood watch chat group, a separate group was formed for anyone from the Rondebosch East or Lansdowne area who wanted to join and contribute. After some discussions and consultation, Aziza Ebrahim and Nadia Anderson from Jumpstart Educare Centre in Lansdowne informed us about the Little Paradise Educare Centre in Flamingo Heights. Ebrahim and Mark Kleinschmidt, the councillor for ward 60, was instrumental in opening the centre in Flamingo Heights earlier this year,” says Aiysha Hoosain, founder of the non-profit organisation (NPO) Upswing in Rondebosch East.

The members of the Rondebosch East NHW (neighbourhood watch) decided to concentrate their efforts in that community and called their group NHW Donors for

Home at last

Good. Donated cooking food and cash meals at the was sent to a centre and drop-off point Bloemstein at Upswing in and the othSecond Aveer staff nue in Ronmembers debosch East, prepared the near Crawford meals for railway stadistribution tion. Ebrahim in the comreferred them munity. to Beveline Upswing Bloemstein was started Feeding takes place in Flamingo Heights. from Belhar,

by Hoosain an Expanded Public Works Programme and her daughter, Fatima, because of the (EPWP) worker and assistant at the Little high unemployment rate and the lack of emParadise Educare Centre, who collected the ployment opportunities in disadvantaged food once a week. areas.

“The madrassa next door to our premises “We aim to develop skills. We are regishas also offered 30 loaves of bread and milk tered as The Skills Development Programme for the community of Flamingo Heights. Cape Town but because the name is so long Bloemstein collects the bread and milk and we changed it to Upswing. The name also distributes it to the needy in Flamingo better suits what we do as we have sewing Heights. She is also assisting in cooking por- and craft classes for children during school ridge for the children at Little Paradise and holidays. We also upskill through recycling lunch for the community,” Hoosain says. and we would like this to be our focus, but The first week of the lockdown, Klein- we have to pay rent and am selling the recyschmidt also dropped off ingredients for cled items donated to us to raise funds.

day back on home soil after more than a month.

“The moment we landed in Johannesburg, we felt a major sense of relief. We were now KAYLYNNE BANTOM no longer thousands of kilometers away from @bantomkaylynne our families, but rather just a city away – this brought smiles and tears to many of our faces.

A month and three weeks... This is how long We were home,” expressed an elated Cloete. a group of Kensington friends were forced to The group will now have to wait a little stay abroad after their dream holiday to Thai- while longer before they are officially reunitland turned into a nightmare. Their planned ed with their families as a 14-day quarantine trip was only supposed to last nine days. Peo- is mandatory to anyone returning from ple’s Post recently reported on the five friends abroad, especially from high-risk countries. who were unable to return to South Africa According to the department of internadue to the lockdown (“We want to come tional relations and cooperation (Dirco), they home”, 21 April). have facilitated the repatriation of over 3 000 South Africa’s lockdown being downgrad- South Africans (by air) stranded abroad since ed from level five to level four meant travel- the start of the lockdown on Thursday 26 ling restrictions remain in place except in cas- March. es where citizens stuck elsewhere in the Dirco said in a press statement that on Friworld need to be repatriated. day 8 May approximately 600 South Africans This news was welcomed by Charné Cloete from Bangkok, Thailand, Bali and Jakarta (24) and her friends, Letasha Ryan (31), Lyle were repatriated.

Ryan (30), Jesse-Lee Biggs (25) and Charl Van Cloete takes a moment to reminisce about Wyk (31) who started to doubt whether they the past month and says: “This entire experiwould ever see their families again. ence has tested the patience and challenged On Saturday 9 May the five friends together the mental, physical and emotional condiwith other stranded citizens spent their first tions of all of us. It wasn’t easy, but looking back now there were so many memories made; happy, sad, hilarious and furious moments.”

Besides their families, what did they miss most about their country?

“Don’t get me wrong, I personally loved the Thai-style cooking, which is clearly not for everyone, but on those odd days I had serious cravings for simple traditional South African dishes like a ‘lekker braai’ chop and sausage,” Ryan giggled. Cloete added: “We are so grateful and appreciative to each and every individual and A group of five are happy to be back in South Africa family who have assisted and supbut will still have to endure a 14-day quarantine. ported in our safe return.”

“We don’t have any sponsor or a grant and we are so far just surviving through the sale of secondhand goods. We accept anything that people don’t want as long as we have space at Upswing,” she says.

Hoosain explains that they chose Upswing as the drop-off point because the space was available during the lockdown.

“The members of the Rondebosch East NHW wanted to do something, but we didn’t know where to start or how to go about it.

Someone suggested Flamingo Heights and I didn’t know where it was but after speaking to Ebrahim, she directed us to the Little Paradise Centre. I think everyone in the chat group just agreed because Flamingo Heights is a neighbouring community we decided to help with feeding the needy there,” Hoosain says.

According to her, there are 34 members in the WhatsApp group and they don’t count who is giving what or how many items.

“I just take the stuff the people donate, take a picture and put the picture on the group chat so everyone knows what was given. I will make contact with Kleinschmidt to do a joint venture with him as this is an initiative from one community helping another one,” Hoosain says.

Scores fed during holy month AVRIL FILLIES

gious schools to enable them to take the Approximately 60 000 peoinitiative and make ple from as far afield as the food for the chilMalmesbury will be fed dren in their respecduring the month of Ramative communities. dan by Invisible Hands in We cover areas like Wynberg.

Parkwood, Delft, During Ramadan, this Wynberg, Mitchyear taking place during ell’s Plain, Paarl, lockdown, they are curMalmesbury, Atlanrently cooking on average tis and some other 4 100F of food daily, except areas. Our intention on a Saturday, where they is to at least make it cook on average 15 100F of easy for one day for food. On average we will these feeding orgafeed more than 60 000 peonisations not to worple for this month. Ramary about what they dan started on Saturday 25 gonna cook for that April.

Yusuf Gabier (right) and brother Faieck day,” he adds.

Invisible Hands was Samodien.

“We also feed the formed in 2016 when Yusuf walk-in hungry perGabier (Joe Spaza) asked his brother Faieck son at our headquarters in Wynberg every Samodien if they could organise a pot of food day from 07:00 until 10:00. We also go out to for the impoverished and indigent children in out of town suburbs like Riebeek-Wes, Riethe suburbs in and around Cape Town. beek-Kasteel, Gouda, Oudshoorn, Dusseldorf At the time they had 80cents and made the and many other places where we liaise with intention on the 15th day of Ramadan that local councillors and community workers to year to make the pot of food. feed on average 2 000 people for that day. This “At the end of that Ramadan we sponsored we do once every month,” Gabier says. more than 20 pots of food and the rest, as they During the current Covid-19 lockdown, say, is history. We mainly depend on sponsors they also distributed over 2 500 basic food parand donors in order to facilitate various pro- cels to various areas, including Vredenburg, jects around the metropole. Our motto is that Saldanha, Langebaan, Malmesbury, Atlantis we feed the children and elderly in all commu- and many others. nities irrespective of race, religion or back“In all these efforts we are mainly dependground. We also have the understanding that ent on our sponsors and donors who generwe cannot feed everyone, but we try and do ously give for the impoverished and indigent what we can,” says Gabier. people. We ask the Almighty to always bestow “Our projects consist of providing food in- His blessing upon us so we can continue in gredients to various feeding schemes and reli- our efforts to serve the community,” he says.

PEOPLE'S POST | FALSE BAY Tuesday, 19 May 2020

ADVERTISEMENT 5

6 NEWS

PEOPLE'S POST | FALSE BAY Tuesday, 19 May 2020

Capetonians are missing out on socialising SAMANTHA LEE-JACOBS @Samantha_Lee121 Weddings, sport, birthday parties and dining out. These are some of the most missed occasions highlighted by Capetonians as no pastime or celebration has been exempt from the effects of the Covid19 pandemic.

With the banning of all public gatherings until the lockdown levels have been completely resolved, engaged couples, residents on the brink of major milestones and sport fanatics with seasonal tickets to live games are all feeling down in the dumps as their occasions have needed to be postponed or cancelled indefinitely.

For Cape Town couple, Daniel Williams and Nicole Abrahams, March was meant to be the month they celebrated their nine years of love with an intimate wedding celebration at their family home.

“All the plans were in place for our wedding on Sunday 29 March.

We had to put five months of planning on hold when we sat in front of the TV screen a week before our I do’s as the president outlined the 21-day lockdown,” says Abrahams.

“I remember feeling so depressed and sad that we would not be able to celebrate our wedding day. After a few days, I got over it and started planning for a new date. We decided on Saturday 25 April, one week after the lockdown was supposed to end. All plans

were in place but now it is May and we are still in lockdown. We have decided not to try and plan again because I do not want my heart broken a third time. We will start our plans after lockdown is completely over, for good.”

They also needed to postpone their already paid for honeymoon to Mozambique.

Travel also ranked as one of the items most missed.

Letitia Arendse says she was planning to take an international trip to Bali or Thailand for her 30th birthday in November.

“I saved for a year and was already looking at packages in January. I was in the process of doing research on the best time to book when Covid-19 hit our shores. This would have been my first time overseas and I was really looking forward to it, but I would rather be safe,” says Arendse.

“I saw an advert that said ‘stay at home now so that you can travel later’ so that is what I am going to do.”

But it is not only weddings and travel that are suffering.

Melissa Ford, who recently gave birth, says she is unable to get a birth certificate for her daughter and she will be missing another big milestone.

“Our baby has to wait until lockdown is at a lower level to be baptised,” she says.

Confirmations, baptisms, anniversaries and weddings are among

the most popular church services conducted, but the lack of contact sermons has many missing just the prospect of getting dressed for church.

“Before the pandemic, I did not appreciate the blessing of being able to walk into church,” says Andre Paulsen. “I took its power for granted. I long for the day that we can walk into church, greet our brothers and sisters by the hand and just embrace the sermon and word of God again.”

But aside from the handshakes, hugs and social interaction missed, the simple dining out at a restaurant, walking down the street and settling in to watch live sport are some of the “things we

Dining out at a restaurant.

Travel

PHOTOS: SAMANTHA LEE-JACOBS

URBAN MOBILITY

Cycling post-lockdown T

here were quite a few people constantly checking the time on their cellphones on Friday morning 1 May, waiting for the clock to strike 06:00. Freedom! Well, for the next three hours, at least, as Capetonians were again allowed to exercise in the street as the country moved to level four.

Gail Jennings, a sustainable urban mobility expert, says it was wonderful to see all of the people out cycling, jogging and walking their dogs while she was pedalling through the far south. However, she says, come Monday 4 May – when some people started to edge back to work – she already began to see a bit of a backlash from drivers.

Speaking during a live Facebook chat with Mikhail Manuel, an active southern suburbs resident, at 18:00 on 7 May, Jennings said she had been hooted at for the first time that morning. “If we want to keep that space for people to move in a non-motorised way, we have to do it now and we (meaning the City of Cape Town) would have to make quite hard decisions.”

But, she does not believe those decisions are going to be made. Jennings says the current push to open up the economy, which most equate with the need for people to drive to

get to work, would probably cause a backlash.

“So we have that challenge but it is a pity and we are in danger of missing the opportunity.”

The live Facebook discussion on the topic: will future generations cycle to school in the southern suburbs? was the fourth of seven weekly talks called The Future of Local Government Post-Covid19 Conversation Series.

Manuel explains the series looks at how “our responses” to the Covid19 pandemic and the Day Zero crisis were focused on behavioural change. He says the government took a complex issue, identified one or two components that linked to resident’s behaviour, and ran campaigns calling each resident to join hands with the government to overcome those problems.

“That got me thinking, can we begin to apply those same principles, or even to look at individual behaviour change mechanisms, to overcome complex issues like homelessness or congestion,” he asks.

Jennings is doing her PhD research on the shifting ideas that affect people switching from driving to cycling as their primary transport mode in South Africa. She says sometimes it can feel like the City is

Cyclists out and about in Wynberg. Capetonians have jumped at the chance to cycle, run and walk their dogs during the allowed 6:00 to 9:00 time slot.

PHOTO: THERESA SMITH

took for granted”.

“My wife hated that every weekend I would sit around the TV watching rugby. It has been part of my life for my entire life. It has been torture not even having international soccer or other sport to watch. I can recite the commentary on every re-run verbatim already,”

shifting a problem onto us when it is their responsibility to try and resolve a particular issue. “And something like cycling as a congestion mitigation intervention is one of those. Issues like road safety, personal security, the lack of bicycle infrastructure – those are all issues that we as individuals have limited control over.

“There is an element of victimblaming there that doesn’t sit comfortably with me... The further I go into my research, the more I start having had to come up with disclaimers saying ‘I don’t really believe individuals are the problem but...’ ” In terms of individual campaigns that do make a difference, Jennings says the Bike Bus project, developed

by Open Streets, is really good. She says people are often afraid to take up cycling as their primary mode of transport to work because they feel unsafe on their own or are scared of the traffic.

“The Bike Bus deals with all of those challenges. They have been tried with school kids walking to school in the Rondebosch area to some degree of success. Cycling less so, again for fairly complex reasons but it is also largely related to infrastructure.”

Another suggestion is for individuals to find people in their neighbourhood and to set up WhatsApp groups around cycling.

“Like your neighbourhood watch street WhatsApp group, you could have a group around cycling to school or work. Those are effective and low-tech. Nobody has to do anything, nobody has to charge anything and they work,” Jennings says.

V To view the full discussion with Gail Jennings go to https://www.facebook.com/mikhail.manuel.50. The next talk, Covid-19 and junk status: Inequality births crime. What will we do to prevent crime in the future?, will be tomorrow, 20 May at 18:00.

says Ashley Christians.

“All I want is to see a ‘lekker’ tackle, jump up when they score a try and drink an ice-cold beer with a fire going in the background.

Those Saturdays seem like a distant memory.”

One thing that Covid-19 may have taught all of us, is to appreciate the smallest moments, because we may not always have them.

Below is a collection of images of some of the most missed occasions, just to remind you of what it looked like, until we can experience them again.

V What occasion or pastime are you missing most as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Email your thoughts to letters@peoplespost.co.za

Watching exciting, live rugby matches at DHL Newlands stadium.

Weddings

Now is the perfect time to get fit and healthy SAMANTHA LEE-JACOBS @Samantha_Lee121 Now more than ever, many are looking to get fit and active, even if it is just to pass the time.

With an influx of home workout videos on social media and DStv, and virtual sessions on Facebook live, Microsoft Teams and Zoom; many are kicking boredom with a healthier habit.

For Zumba instructor Bevil Lakay, lockdown has been quite challenging.

“One needs to keep mentally and physically fit, so as not go into a slump of sorts. Most of us are used to doing different activities; some outdoors and some indoors. With lockdown we have very little choice, but to stay indoors and become creative with our physical activities.

This applies to us instructors as well,” says Lakay.

“As a Zumba instructor this has opened a different market, and clients are able to join a fitness class in the comfort of their own home.

Although I miss the one-on-one classes and the face-to-face interaction with clients, I must be honest.

I have been having so much fun with presenting virtual Zumba classes. Covid-19 has in effect ‘forced’ us to do things differently and we need to become creative in how we do things, but still focus on getting the same results.”

Personal trainer Reemay Damons agrees. “It’s a really frustrating and uncomfortable experience under lockdown; and mentally and physically it has a negative impact on most people indefinitely. Exercise, especially in these situations is required,” he says.

Damons says this could help relieve pent up stress and tension above all its other health benefits.

He suggests some simple 30 minute workouts with resistance training, body weight exercises and exercises for flexibility.

According to Commonwealth secretary-general Patricia Scotland, exercising during lockdown could assist you in battling the bulge but also the stress related to the pandemic, as well as improving your physical and mental health.

“Public parks have been gated shut, beaches emptied and stadia deserted, as an unprecedented 2.5 billion people across the world are told to sit at home. Times are tough. The Coronavirus is real and as it spreads its tentacles across the globe it is taking its toll on the lives and livelihoods of people everywhere. Measures such as closing gyms, shutting sports facilities and staying at home put a limit on a person’s mobility and exercise,” says Scotland.

She adds that the necessary, but painful lockdown and enforced inactivity can contribute to periods of intense stress and can lead to longterm negative health impacts.

Nicole Jennings, spokesperson for Pharma Dynamics, agrees. She says sedentary living is bad for our waistline and our hearts.

“Lack of physical activity is among the biggest risk factors for chronic diseases of lifestyle, such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, which accounts for 40% of all deaths in SA,” she says. “The majority of South Africans don’t do anywhere near the recommended amount of exercise to stave off noncommunicable diseases.”

The most recent study by the World Health Organisation (WHO) found that 38.2% of South Africans are inactive. Women are the least active (47.3%) when compared to men (28.5%).

The WHO recommends a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week, such as brisk walking or cycling, which is now allowed outside during stage 4 of the lockdown. Exercising vigorously for 75 minutes weekly, would have a similar effect.

NEWS 7

PEOPLE'S POST | FALSE BAY Tuesday, 19 May 2020

THEATRE

Giving voice to African folktales RACINE EDWARDES RACINE.EDWARDES@MEDIA24.COM @RAEEDWARDES

J

ungle Keeps Telling Stories is the name of Jungle Theatre Company’s (JTC) new campaign which aims to keep children interested in theatre while they are not able to attend shows due to the lockdown restrictions.

“Children who are normally engaged can’t come to watch our shows, so what we want to do is create access to children to keep on listening and keep on engaging with the African folktales we use to create theatre productions,” said Vincent Meyburgh, JTC’s artistic director, in a video posted to YouTube last month.

JTC artists are recording African folktales in English, Afrikaans and isiXhosa, and developing free, online resources for parents to use with their children, says the JTC’s manager Miranda Tait.

This is also keeping their artists and children creative while at home.

Tait says the and have fun.

10 artists creatParents are ing the audioencouraged books, illusto read for trated e-books their chiland learning dren, allowresources are ing them to Puleng Stewuse their imart, Joce Engelagination, brecht, Gerstrengthen shan Lombard, their listenMario Matiya, ing skills and Monray Dadevelop vids, Noxolo awareness Magadla, Zizi- Jungle Theatre Company artists are creating audiobooks and a sense of pho Gcasamba, and e-learning resources for children. They continue to tell pride for the Louw Venter, African folktales during lockdown. various culSiyawandisa tural stories Badi and Mfundo Hashe. Meyburgh is also we have.” lending his voice to the productions.

She adds they will be producing more reElaborating on how the materials engage sources regularly, on which artists are young people between the ages of six and 12, spending one to two hours daily.

Tait says: “In terms of parents encouraging As most navigate a different work environtheir kids to participate, children learn an ment during the lockdown, the artists are alAfrican folktale and are encouraged to read so learning how to use their new mediums

for production.

“The audiobooks require careful use of voices from the actors and sometimes music.

The storytelling videos challenge the actors to use their bodies to show multiple characters,” Tait explains.

The company reported that since the start of this campaign two weeks ago, they have had 304 views on their YouTube channel, 206 listens on SoundCloud and 285 visitors to the resources pages on their website.

Meyburgh encourages the public to keep the children’s theatre alive, to continue telling African stories and to support its artists.

“We need you to donate to our Back-a-Buddy campaign so we can keep paying our artists and we can keep sharing the work we do with all our different beneficiaries in orphanages, children’s homes and schools,” he said in the video.

V To access the resources, visit: jungletheatre.co.za/category/resources/. To support the campaign, visit: www.backabuddy.co.za/jungle-keeps-telling-stories and search for Jungle Theatre Company to watch the stories on YouTube.

MAAK JOU SKULD JOU MAL BETAAL EEN PLEK EEN PAAIEMENT! R40 000 – R700 pm R100 000 – R 1700pm

a a

13

R200 000 – R3500 pm R500 000 – R8500 pm

SWARTLYS WELKOM OF AGTERSTALLIG

a

YOU HAVE TRIED THE REST – NOW TRY THE BEST!

a

X1W275FM-ES180220

PERSONAL SERVICES 1400

PASTOR MOSES 078 075 9508 Come we pray for you in the name of the Lord Delayed pension money, money in your acc & love problems. Prayers for all your problems

HERBALIST 1435

GENERAL & HOME SERVICES 1800

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION 1801

WE ARE OPEN! CAPE FLATS SAND & STONE DELIVERIES

DANKIE MAMA TANIA & JEFF 'n STORIE WAT JOU LEWE GOU SAL VERANDER. Ek is Chantel van Rondebosch. Ek het moed verloor nadat ek alle kruiekenners probeer het in Weskaap want niemand kon my help nie. My geliefde het my gelos, ek het 2 hofsake gehad en 33 jaar gewerk en geen geld gehet. Gelukkig lees ek van Tania, wie toe vir my gelukkige LOTTO nommers gee (7, 9, 12, 14, 19, 25). In November verlede jaar het die geluk my getref met die Lotto.

My finansiële probleme was opgelos, my hofsake was gekanselleer en ek het weer liefde gevind.

Hulle het ook gehelp met derde party-eise en pensioenfonds-uitbetalings.

MOENIE IN STILTE KRIPEER NIE JY KAN OOK JOU TOEKOMS VERANDER! BEL / WHATSAPP 063 490 3985

Bakkie loads + Truck deliveries (3 – 15m³ cubes ) *PHILIPPI BUILDING SAND* *LIME SAND* *MALMESBURY* *19mm STONE* Tel: 021-371-0709

Maama Lisa

PERSONAL SERVICES 1400

HERBALISTS 1435

WEN LOTTO & POWER BALL. Betaal as jy wen JACOB 073 813 4257

Are you struggling in life with no results?

Cry no more Remove thokoloshe Male & female problems

Call / whatsapp: 078 282 3943

STOP SUFFERING SHEIK SALIM B Experience Sheik from Zanzibar. Solves problems using duas & Arabic herbs. Marriage & Financial problems. Pensioners free and disabled people 078 102 5568

WENDY HOUSES

LOANS

DIY (3X6)- R7 000 all sizes Call 082-621-4441 021-393-5475

1445

FOR SALE

PAVING 1873

1677

WENDY'S

PLUMBERS

A BRIDGING LOAN

Waiting on Pension/Package/Divorce pay-out? Contact us today. We service clients countrywide

0860 018 025 082 301 7856

WE WILL APPROVE YOU WHEN THE BANKS DECLINE YOU VEHICLE FINANCE AND BONDS, NO HASSLES. SEND A PCM TO 0814347169

ALL PAVING. Excel ref.

Ph 021 393 0026 or 076 124 4713

GENERAL & HOME SERVICES

1855

ALL PLUMBING. Excel ref.

Ph 021 393 0026 or 076 124 4713

For all your plumbing needs Call Frank - 082 354 4076

CARPENTRY 1874

SWIMMING POOLS

BUILT-IN bedroom/kitchen cupboards. Mr Abdul 067 835 9472

1867

CLEAN & MAINTAIN POOLS. Ph 083 494 3939 or 081 418 5129

ELECTRICAL 1810

TRANSPORT & STORAGE

24/7 FRIDGE REGASSING Ph 073 4808 444

1870

A1 FRIDGE and FREEZER Regassing. 083 535 9300

BRIDGING CASH While waiting for PENSION/PACKAGE/ PROPERTY SALE Payout (Lump sum only) W/BERG 021 761 2125 CELL 060 671 2857

HOME IMPROVEMENTS EXTERIOR

SHORT TERM LOANS up to R 5000 Loan pay out the same day 021 949 0930 (O) 064 731 1563 (W/app)

Winston welding projects. Gates, b/bars, vibes, carports.

0748073362 0717358597

MINI MOVES by Johan. Call 021-782 5749 / 073 973 7212

1836

ARTHUR'S SLIDING GATES, b/bars, steel, fencing & automation.

Call 071-897-1547

BUSINESS

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES 2415

AVON COSMETICS Earn extra, sell Avon products Sms name & area to 083 272 2493

Super cheap insurance SMS ‘king’ to 31452 for a quote Standard SMS rates and T’s & C’s apply

FSP no. 43862

SPORT TUESDAY 19 May 2020 | People's Post | Page 8 | 0021 910 6500

Disclaimer: People’s Post and Media 24 have not verified whether any of the services or products advertised in this publication are safe to use or will have the desired effect or outcome. Readers are warned that they should carefully consider and verify the advertiser’s credentials.

People’s Post and Media24 do not accept any liability whatsoever in respect of any of the services or goods advertised.

‘New ways’ to manage sport AVRIL FILLIES

D

ue to the Covid-19 pandemic, all Varsity Sports were postponed until 2021.

Mandla Gagayi, director of sport at the University of the Western Cape (UWC), says a few winter tournaments were planned for University Sport South Africa (USSA) for July, with some in September, including Varsity Sports competitions such as soccer, netball, basketball and cricket.

“All these events have been suspended and there are no replacement competitions due to the current lockdown, which I believe may go up to December. As such, it is our responsibility as sports administrators to respect the lockdown regulations and not try and force matters and risk lives of our student-athletes. In order to keep fit, each student-athlete has been provided with a training programme and their coaches are in constant contact with them to keep track and advise,” he says.

The impact of the lockdown meant no sport will be played and the players are all disappointed about the decision.

“However, they all understand that their safety is paramount. All they have to do now is focus on their studies and exercises, and believe that there will still be sport after the lockdown. We are also fortunate that we have a wonderful free counselling service at UWC which all students can make use of via a toll-free line should they struggle to deal with the anxiety of academics and/or sport.

“I also don’t believe there will be any sport during the month of June, at least not here in South Africa. But I will be keen to watch any sport on television just to learn and keep busy. I also believe we all need to use this non-sporting period to reflect and also think about new ways of managing sport,” Gagayi says.

His advice to all students is to keep in mind this lockdown is not the end of life but for now, they must stay safe and healthy and keep on training.

“Each student must use this time to reflect on what they have achieved so far and what they want their future to look like. This is also a time to focus on yourself by focusing on things that matter without any undue

Cyclists urged to be cautious A week after it was anhis bike and cellphone.” nounced that outdoor The incident was reexercising will be alported to Hout Bay police lowed under strict station. conditions effective In Port Elizabeth, Friday 1 May, crime mountain biker, Ed Benhas once again reared net was also attacked at its ugly head on 07:00, at the corner of SarThursday 7 May, with dinia Bay Road and Victwo attacks on cytoria Drive. clists, one in Cape The attacker hauled Town and the other in Bennet off his bike and Port Elizabeth. dragged him towards the “We are asking ev- Pedal Power Association urges cyclists to bushes. He ran away afteryone to please be remain vigilant and try to avoid known er Bennet managed to cautious and to avoid crime hotspots when out cycling. fight him off. known crime hotspots Rezelman said they are when out cycling,” says Rens Rezelman, happy to report Bennet was not injured. chair of the Pedal Power Association.

The Victoria Drive area in the vicinity of On that Thursday, a cyclist was bike-jacked the Sardinia Bay turnoff and all the way by two men at around 07:00 at the intersection down to Schoenmakerskop has been a trouble of Hout Bay Main and Nelson Mandela roads, spot over the years with several incidents of close to the entrance to Imizamo Yethu. this nature, including visiting Iron Man tri“Please be aware that criminals know that athletes being attacked. cyclists are out on the road between 06:00 and “It is also very important to report cases to 09:00, says Rezelman. The attackers apparent- your nearest police station in order for us to ly hid behind the trees and then pretended to request patrols in the morning, to combat atcross the street before they attacked, stealing tacks like these,” Rezelman concluded.

pressure from friends. Each student has to establish a routine for studies and exercise, and always believe that this is just a phase and we must all be ready to face new challenges after lockdown,” he says.

He is not planning anything special after the lockdown has been lifted, but he will definitely have a braai with his UWC sports colleagues just to reconnect and appreciate getting back to doing what they love.

Gagayi is not only giving advice to the students to train, but is also keeping himself fit and healthy at home.

“We have a family routine, we get up and exercise in our home gym, my wife and I help the kids with their schoolwork while we also attend to our jobs, whether it is attending to e-meetings or doing administration. I also use this time to attend to my master’s research. I am in daily contact with my sports administrators to ensure that everyone is up to date with their duties. I also receive reports from coaches every Monday morning giving updates on the progress of their players and also highlighting areas and individuals that need my support,” Gagayi says.

Mandla Gagayi, director of sport at the University of the Western Cape. PHOTO: MELISSA AWU

Rugby club collaborates with organisations to provide food AVRIL FILLIES Siblings Mark Skriker and Gavin as well asRyan Crouse, three former rugby players of Caledonian Roses Rugby Club in Grassy Park are collaborating with the club with three feeding schemes, one in Hanover Park and two in Mitchell’s Plain during the lockdown.

The three initially established the non-profit organisation (NPO) Unchain the Plain, where they collected second-hand sporting equipment, but with the announcement of the Covid-19 pandemic they are now involved with the three feeding schemes.

“The club started with our feeding project eight years ago by cooking three pots of 100F food on the day of Eid to feed the vulnerable people around the premises of the masjid in Grassy Park, and those in need of food for that day. Our collaborations with other organisations started when we saw the need for assistance from the greater community. Three pots grew to eight pots in 2011,” says Moegamat Stuurman, executive member of the club.

In the fourth year, the club managed to cook

25 pots of food with assistance from work colleagues. In 2019 the club collaborated with the NPO Moms who Care in Newfields, Athlone, a group of women who takes care of the frail and abused women and children, and counsel drug addicts in Athlone and surrounding areas. They cooked 36 pots of food which were distributed throughout Hanover Park.

“When the pandemic was announced, both organisations didn’t hesitate to come together and assisted in cooking the meals from day one. This year Unchain The Plain came on board and is assisting us with much-needed ingredients towards our daily cooking and have committed to assist us with this initiative till the end of May and beyond,” Stuurman says.

The mass cooking is an annual event, but during the month of Ramadan the club cooked every single day to feed the needy and they are also planning to hand out food parcels to the most vulnerable in the communities.

V For more information contact Moegamat on 063 391 8112 or email calliesrfc@gmail.com or mshakier4@gmail.com.