City Vision E-edition 19 February 2026

e,death

breaking into clinicsand schools as these arethere for ourown benefit. Butbecause we have allowed criminal elements to take control of ourcommunities,authorities are beingforcedtoimplementstringent security measures wherethere should be none It is even more worrisome when thugs demand paymentfromthe same companies thatare meanttoguard these facilities

Thesad reality is thatsome of the culpritsare well-knowninour communities

Themoral decay seemstohavereached alarminglevels in ourcommunities and those whospeak against criminals arenow targeted. Icringe when Ithink of people such as Lulama “Guffy” Dinginto whose life was cutshortbythugs for speaking the truth. Arewebeing forcedtoacceptthe dire state of ourcommunities to protect ourown lives?The entire familywas left grieving duetoactions of oneindividual. On theoppositeend,Iobservedwith dismayassome people from Site Cblamed policefor killing renownedthugYanga “Bara” Nyalara lastyear. Whilehewas known for all hiscriminal activities, some people glorified himfor protecting local residents.Why have we putsomuchfaith in the criminals instead of standing up with policeagainst criminality. Our survival andsafety arewithin reach, we just need to change ourmindset.

realchange?

A journo’s voice

-NamhlaMonakali -

canexperience firsthand.

Perhapsthe most immediateconcernsraised in theaddressrelatetomunicipal services Watershortages,failing infrastructure,and inconsistent servicedeliveryaffectour daily livesinwaysthatnationaleconomicindicators cannotcapture

Unlike growth figuresorcurrencyperformance, theseissues aretangible. They shape howweexperienceour communities daily whetherour taps run, roadsremainusable, refuseiscollected,and electricitysupplyisstable. Ramaphosa’swarning that failingmunicipalities couldloseservice delivery powers suggests awillingness to actmoredecisively. Butitalso raises uncomfortablequestions forall of us.If government haslongknown whichmunicipalitiesare struggling, whyhas intervention often appeared slow or reactive?And will stronger oversightnow translateintoquicker,measurable improvements?

Thesequestions pointtoa deeper challenge, restoringpublictrust

Stateofthe Nation addressestraditionally aim to inspireconfidenceand seta national agenda This year’s speechdid so,offeringa vision of recovery,reform, andunity.Itsoughttoreassure both citizens andinvestors that progress is possibleand that thecountry is moving in the rightdirection

Butweknowthatpublicexpectationshave shifted.

Thepresident’s speechoutlineda direction andacknowledgedmanyrealities.But thetrue test lies beyond thechamber in whichitwas delivered.

Will economic gainstranslate into broader employment opportunitiesfor ouryoung people?

Will governance reformsrestore ourconfidenceinpublicinstitutions? Will localservice delivery stabiliseinthe communities wherewe live?

Theseare thequestions that will ultimately define whetherthe optimism expressedinthis year’s addressbecomes more than rhetoric BecauseinSouth Africa today, hope is no longer builtonspeechesalone,itisbuilt on delivery,accountability,and change that we can seeand feel in ourlives

Anduntil that change becomesconsistently visible, ouroptimismwillremaincautious.

Codeta annual prayer service

UNATHIOBOSE

ORTambo Hall in Khayelitshawas packed to the rafters when members of the Cape Organisation for theDemocratic TaxiAssociation (Codeta)gathered forthe annual prayer service, invoking blessings on the year ahead, on Thursday 12 February. The prayer wasattended by various church leaders, representativesof different political organisations as wellas association members from Cape Townto Beaufort West.

“Since we had aclosing ceremony inOctober last year we saw it as only fitting that we open the year on such anote too, andto let our commuters know we areback. We wanttothank them for theirpatience and for believing in us,”Codeta spokesperson Makhosandile Tumana said He expressed gratitude to their drivers for doing “a stunning job”, adding that the association had registeredzero fatalities

thispast festive season. “As an association we changed our working strategy and decidedtointeract with ourcommuters. We areavailable on socialmedia, where our commuters canshare their grievances and praise uswhere they can,” he explained Ndithini Tyhido, leader of the African NationalCongress in the DulharOmar Region, expressed support andpraised the association formaking adifference.

“Oursistogive credit to the leadership of Codeta fordoing agreat job, by ensuring thatthere arenofatalities on any of its routes during the festive season. Also, byprofessionalising the public-transport industry. Andlastlybut by no means least, by minimising the taxi violence.”

Amanazarethi AmahleZionChurch leader in Mfuleni Rev Khedamile Sobopha said:

“Weare here to testify to the power of God. He is Alphaand Omega.Noone is greater thanhim. We wishthe taxi operators all the best this year.”

Shackfireleavesatleast15 homelessinRamaphosa

UNATHIOBOSE

Whatwas meant to be aday of lovequickly turned into tragedyfor agroup of Ramaphosa informal settlementresidents on Valentine’s Day, Saturday14February

At least 20 were left homelessafter11 shacks caught alight.

Thefirebroke out after 21:00, itscause unknown.

Community leader BabalwaSiswanasaid although no injuries were reportedthe well-being of the shack-firevictims was a concern.

“It is toughfor them because most areunemployed.Wedon’tknowwhere theyare going to sleep. We appealtothe community to assist where they can.”

Victim Luleka Tyhulu said shehad managed to salvageonlya fewbags. “I was watching televisionwhen the flames started. Iheard people shouting outside‘fire! fire!’ Iwent outand saw flames.”

She said her biggest mistake was to delaygetting her belongings out, instead of standing outside watching the flames take

their toll

“The incident occurred so far from my shackI thoughtthe flames would never reachit.

“Thenout of nowhere stronggusts came andthe flames spread quickly. When My shackwas engulfed when Iwas trying to getmybelongings out.”

Tyhulusaid the area didn’t have electricity, with many illegal connectionsto “thedangerbox”(mini sub-station. Sheappealed to members of the publicfor donations of clothes.

TheCity’s Fire andRescue Service spokesperson MichaelAbrahams confirmed the incident, saying the call was received at 21:08 on Saturday 14 February. He believed there were 15 people left destitute.

“Crews from Belhar, Mitchells Plain and Epping responded,” he said.“Elevenstructures were razedand 15 people were displaced.”

According to Abrahams,thistimearound there were no injuries or deaths reported at all

FROMPAGE1

However, after being forced by the Khayelitsha BusinessForum (KBF) to reconsiderthe contract and simmering tensions, thedepartment decidedtowithdraw the bid last week Friday 13 February (the closingdate for the bids)

“My apologies for the late notification, but unfortunately the bid had to be cancelled andwill be re-invited at alater stage. Any bids received or deposited in the bid box at 4Dorp Street, Cape Town already, will be returned to your company, unopened,” wrote Rashaad Matthews, administrative officer,supply chainmanagement in the department, in an emailsent to the bidders on Friday. “TheDepartment

ernment policy but is just aploytomarginalisethem. “It’snot the first time that we arefighting with the department about this issue.In2022, the department didthe samething.Wetoldthem that it is unfair to demand ahalaalcertificate in Khayelitsha wherethe majority of people arenot concerned about halaal foods,” she said Mpethaclaimed thatshe missed out on a similar tender, catering for300 children at KDHin2022 because of the halaal certificate. She stated that as blackbusinesspeopletheyfeelexcluded from tendering in neighbouring communities because they don’tmeet certain requirements.

“I can’tgoand bidfor atender in LentegeurorMitchells Plain because Idon’t

Need‘long-term’action on crime

NAMHLAMONAKALI

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde has welcomed the planned deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to supportthe SouthAfrican Police Service (SAPS) in tackling gang violence,after President CyrilRamaphosa announced the intervention during his State of the Nation Address (Sona) at Cape TownCity HallonThursday 12 February.

In his address, Ramaphosa acknowledged that organised crime and gang violence remain among the most urgent threats facing communities, particularly in urban crime hotspots.

“Organised crime poses one of the greatest threats to our democracy, our society and our economic development,” he said. “We are intensifying efforts to dismantle criminal syndicates, recover illegal firearmsand restore safetyin our communities.”

Thepresident indicated thathehad directed theminister of police and the SANDF to develop atacticaldeployment plan for high-risk areas, including partsof the Western Cape. “South Africans deserve to feel safe in their homes, in their streets andintheir workplaces,” he stated.

Provincewelcomessupportbuturgesreform

Winde said gang-related crime continues to devastate communities across the province, particularly in areas affected by frequent shootings anddrug-related violence.

“I welcome the long overdue focus on gangsterism and the commitment to lifestyleauditsfor seniorpolice officers,” Winde said. “The deploymentof the SANDF is ashort-term solution and cannotbeareplacement for reformingthe police.”

He said key reforms must include filling police vacancies,strengthening crime intelligence and sharing investigative powers with local policingstructures.

Western CapePolice Oversight and Community Safety Minister ReagenAllen Marais saidmilitary intervention alone would notresolve the crisis.

“The deploymentofthe SANDF cannot be viewed as asustainable, long-termsolution,” Marais said. “Lasting change will only be achievedthrougha well-resourced andintelligence-driven police service.”

Communityboardsupportsstabilisationrole

The Western Cape Provincial Community police boardsaid it supports the deployment as ashort-term stabilisation mea-

sure butwarned thatsustainable crime reduction requires long-term institutional reform.

“Military deployment is not asubstitute for effective policing,” the boardstated. “Lastingreductions in crime depend on strengtheninginvestigative capacity, crime intelligenceand community-oriented policing.”

Theboard called for clear operational plans, oversight mechanisms and atimebound deployment strategy.

Citypushesformorepolicingpowers

MayorGeordin Hill-Lewis welcomed thedeploymentfor immediaterelief in gang-affected communities but urged the national government to devolve more policing powers to municipalities.

“Anyshort-term relief for families in gang-impacted communities is most welcome,” Hill-Lewis said. “Butwhile we welcome thearmy, it is only short-term. We urge thepresident to act on real solutions to increasegangcrime convictions.”

He addedthat City law enforcement officersare ready to assist with building prosecution-ready casedockets if granted expandedinvestigative authority.

Accordingtothe City, municipal officers confiscatehundreds of illegal firearms

annually, yet conviction rates remain low due to resource constraints withinthe criminal justice system.

Mayco member for safetyand security JP Smithsaid delays in devolving policing powers continue to undermine crime-fighting efforts.

“The SANDF can stabilise, but only a functioning criminal justice system will keep communities safe,”Smith said.

Ongoingsafetycrisis

Ramaphosa acknowledged that crime undermines economic growth and community well-being.

“Crime discourages investment, destroys livelihoods and weakens public confidence,”hesaid. “Reducing crime is essential for rebuilding our economy and restoring hope.”

Provincial leaders said addressing gang violence requires coordinated action across all spheres of government, combining short-term securityinterventions with long-term policing reform and social development programmes.

Winde said the provincial government remains committed to collaboration.

“Our communities deserve asustained, intelligence-led and properly resourced response to gang violence,” he said.

R30milrefurbishment forParliament’sdome

After years of disruption caused by the 2022 fire, parliamentary debates will now be heldinthe newly refurbished Nieuwmeester Dome, at the Parliamentary Precinct.

The facility, upgraded at acost of approximately R30million, was officially handed over to parliament by Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Macpherson on Friday 6 February.

Thoko Didiza, the Speaker of theNational Assembly, accepted the Dome.

Macpherson said he was proud of the workdone by engineers to reinforce the Dome, which was first used for thefuneral of former President Nelson Mandela in 2013.

The timing of the handover is significant, as the Dome is set to host several key events this month, including National Assembly sittings, the debate on theState of the Nation Address (Sona), the President’sreply to the debate and the National Budget Speech.

The fire of January 2022 caused severe damage to the Parliamentary Precinct and disrupted the normal functioningofParliament.

Since then, Parliament has had to secure alternative venues in order to continue its sittings, oversight responsibilities, and the workthat keeps South Africa’s constitutional democracy alive.

Located at the corner of Roeland and Plein streets, the Dome has now been repurposed for an equally important national task, providing a stableand secure venue for parliamentary sittings while thepermanent home of the National Assembly is restored.

The refurbishment focused on strengthening the structure’s resilience and improving its overall durability so that it can function reliably through different seasons.

Attention was also given to creating an environment where debate can take place clear-

ly, where proceedings can be heard without disruption, and where members and staff can work effectively.

Sound quality formed akey part of the upgrade. Improved soundproofing and acoustic performance were introduced to ensure the integrityof parliamentary proceedings and the publicrecord. TheDome was also required to comply with the operational standards necessary for parliamentary sittings.

“When Parliament is not sitting thisfacility has the potential to be used as an events and conferencing venue in acontrolled manner,” said Macpherson, “aligned with securityand operational requirements, and through aproper process that protects the integrityofthe site while generating additional income.”

Following approval in September 2024 the Dome was installed as astate-owned, reusable facility designed to host National Assembly sittings, joint sittings and other high-level national events during the reconstruction period.

“The project reflectsacollaborative partnership between Parliament and the Department of Public Works and Infrastructuretodeliver afunctional, secure and fit-for-purpose parliamentary facility. Didiza added the handover allows Parliament to move ahead with the final phase of technical readiness.

TheDome will serve as a secure, fit-for-purpose and dignified temporary home for the National Assembly at atime when Parliament must continue to discharge itsconstitutional responsibilities without interruption.

Hiring external venues for parliamentary sittings is projected to cost an estimated R48million per year, while the Dome representsaonceoff investment and remains a reusable national asset.

Urgent funds needed forBlisters

For nearly six decades, the Blistersfor Bread CharityFamily FunWalkhas brought together families,schools, businesses and community organisations in ashared stand against childhunger

Now in its58th year, this much-loved event faces an uncertain future.

To deliver the event safely and professionally and to ensure it remains accessible for the community, the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) requiresR1,5 million in sponsorship funding.

This sponsorship enables PSFA to cover all operational costs. Thismeans walker entry fees remain affordable and 100% of the money raised is directedtoits school feeding programmes.

Without urgent sponsorshipsupport, this year’s Blisters for Bread walk maynot be able to go ahead,dealing asignificant blow not only to the PSFA but alsotothe families, schools, and communities who have made this event an annual tradition

ThePSFA is calling on members of the corporate sector to partner with PSFA for this year’s event.

The walk raises awareness ofchildhood hunger and contributes to vital funding for the PSFA’s school nutrition support programme,which feeds over 30 000 learners

across the Western Cape each school day.

Since its inception, Blisters for Bread has grown intoatrusted platform for collaboration, combining large-scale public participation with astrong focus on social impact

Brian Benatar, PSFA chair, said Blisters forBread has always been built on partnership.

“Corporate support plays acritical role in helping us deliver ahigh-qualityevent, while maximising thefunds that go directly to ourcore feeding mission.

“Withoutthissupport, we risk losingnot only this event but apowerful platform for the community to show solidarity against child hunger.”

The event hashistorically benefited from strong corporate involvement. It also offers sponsors credible brandvisibility, employee engagement opportunitiesand alignment with PSFA whichhas been addressing food insecurity amongvulnerable learners for decades.

“Blistersfor Bread continues to demonstratewhat is possible whenbusiness and community work together,” said PSFA Director, Petrina Pakoe

“We are sincerely grateful to the companiesthathave stood by us year after year through donations, sponsorships, corpo-

rate hospitality and activations. Theirsupport helps keep the walk accessible while making alasting difference in thelivesofchildren who rely on our meals.”

PSFA welcomesthe opportunity to en-

gage with businesses interested in supporting thisyear’swalk through sponsorship or partnership.

Formore information, contact PSFA’s Fundraising Manager, Charles Grey, on 021 447 6020 or viaemail at charles@psfa.org.za

Localteacher makes SA Rugby’slistof24elitecoaches

AVRILFILLIES

Nosipho Poswa, ateacher at ZimasaPrimary School in Langa is one of nine former Springbok Women includedona list of 24 elitecoaches who will form part of SA Rugby’s new Women Coaches’ Transitioning Workshop. The workshop will be held later this month atDelsma SportsFarminRiebeeck West and is acritical initiative designed to bridge the gendergap in elite coaching. She is currently the assistantcoach of the Varsity Cup teamatUniversityofthe

the previous year as well as the current Springbok assistant coach Laurian Johannes-Haup,” Poswasays. “I am excited to see what the future holds. The workshop willserveasaformal prerequisite fornominationtothe prestigious World Rugby Level 3courseand is part of Saru’s‘Destination 2027’ strategy,” she says.

Rian Oberholzer, CEOofSARugby, says thisintervention follows an intensivereview of performance data over the last 13 years, which revealed thatonlytwo women’s coaches, Haupt and Jordaan, had

porary Lawwith AimeeBarrett-Theron, and resiliencetraining

The participants were identifiedthrough provincialnominations andtheir performance as coaches in domesticcompetitions andElite Player Development (EPD) camps.

Oberholzer says the focusistoensure that Saru’s femalecoaches aretechnically prepared andcompetitivelyreadyfor Level 3certification. “This workshopisa robust high-performance intervention.Weexpectthese coaches to arrive preparedwith

completed personal profiles andseasonal visions, as we lookforward to an impactfulprogramme thatpreparesthemfor the global stage,” Oberholzersays.

Residentsrelive District 6memories

KAYLYNNEBANTOM

Six decades later the pain of forced removals fromthe oncethriving community of DistrictSix still lingers in the hearts of families who lost their homes and community after the area was declared a“whitesonly” by the apartheid regime under the Group AreasAct.

More than 60 000people were forcibly removed to outlying areas known as theCape Flats and their homes in District Six demolished by bulldozers.

On Wednesday 11 February, the anguish was relived as former residents, families, claimants and museum patrons gathered at the District Six Museum to markthe 60thanniversary of the forced

massremovalstomanyparts of Cape Town ChrischenéJulius, museum director, said acommemorative ceremonyis hosted each year, tokeep the stories, strugglesand spiritofDistrictSix alive.

“On this daywetry to rememberwhat it meant to belong to thatcommunity. It’sasolemn occasionmarkingacommunity’s destruction.”

Residents and families were given the opportunity to write messagesonstones,a memorialising ritualgoingback to the 1980s, accordingtoJulius

“Itstarted inlate1980s when District Sixlandwas stillvacant. Each year agroup of activists wouldgatherand laya stone down on the site of whatthey thought were the oldSeven Steps

SusanLewis (82) said herfamily’s land-restitution process took nine yearsand theymoved back in 2004.

“My mother was 94 yearsold at the time when we returned

“I am so gladthatshe was able to experience thatand live in District Six for five yearsbeforeshe died (in 2009).Weare gladtobe living here again.The houseis not perfect, butit’sour Bucking-

TheCity of CapeTown is urging residents whoare struggling financially to apply for available relief measures,including indigent assistanceand pensioner rebatesaimed at easing the cost of municipal services and propertyrates

Households earningbelow R7 500 permonth mayqualify for indigentsupport

Pensioners aged 60 andolder withahousehold income of R27 000 or less areencouragedto apply

Mayco memberfor finance

Siseko Mbandezisays the City has expanded the qualifying threshold for pensionersand social grantrecipients to allow moreresidents to benefit.

“TheCity hasincreasedthe social support package to R5,1 billion for the last year andthis years financial year. Qualifying households could access free basicservices andmay receive a100% discountontheir property rates,” says Mbandezi.

He says the expanded support aims to assist vulnerable residents facingrisinglivingcosts and financial strain.

According to Mbandezi, officials at the City’s Customer InteractionCentres areavailable to assist residents with applications andprovide guidance. “Weencourage indigent

hamPalace.”

Butfor Sherry Becorney (65) the battle to return continues andit is difficult to remain hopeful.

“I was ateenager when we had to move. We used to live in Upper Constitution Street

“EverytimeIcometothe museum Iget emotional. Remaining hopefulispainful, butfor as long as Iamalive Iwillremain hopefulofreturning.”

residents andpensionersto find outmoreabout the various forms of support available.The City remainscommitted to assisting those in need,” he says. Mbandezireminded the current beneficiaries to reapply for anyexisting benefits after Tuesday1 July thisyear, when the newfinancial year begins. Thereapplication process ensuresthatqualifying residents continuereceivingsupportbased on updatedproperty valuationsand income assessments

Mbandezipraised residents whocontinuetopay for their services,saying the average paymentratiofor the 12 months ending Decemberlastyearwas 97,9%, reflecting strongpublic participation in maintaining servicedelivery.“These payments arevitaltomaintain servicedelivery andensurethe City continues to function effectively.

We thank residents whoconsistentlymeettheir payment obligations,” he says.Residents seeking assistanceare encouraged to visit their nearestCustomer Interaction Centrefor more information on application processes andavailable support measures.

.Email yourviews on this to cityvision@novusmedia.co.za

Pensionersearning R27000 or less can applyfor rebatesand supportfromthe City Officials areavailable to help residentsapply.

Wear your flipflopsand save thechildren

South Africans are encouraged to put their best foot forwardfor children and adolescentsdiagnosed with cancerasFlip Flop Day 2026 returnstomorrow (20 February)

Led by CHOCChildhood Cancer Foundation South Africa,Flip Flop Day is a national fundraising and awareness campaign inviting individuals, schoolsand workplaces to purchasea R10 Flip Flop Day stickerand weartheirflipflopsin solidarity with familiesaffected by childhood cancer.The day continuestohighlight how simple, collective action can translate into

meaningful, life-changing support.

“Thisfun campaign carries aserious message,thatnofamily shouldwalkthe childhoodcancer journey alone,” says Hedley Lewis, CEOofCHOC.“Asmall action,like purchasinga R10 sticker, enables CHOC to providepractical, emotionaland educational support to children,adolescents and theirfamilies when they need it most.”

Funds raised enableCHOC to continue delivering vital services, including safe accommodation neartreatment centres, transportassistance,psychosocial support andeducational programmes thathelp

children andadolescents to continuelearning during treatment.

This yearFlip Flop Day places astrong emphasis on friendship and shared participation, encouraging peopletoget involved together, whether as colleagues,classmates, families or communities

Purchase aFlip Flop Day sticker for just R10 from CHOC or TekkieTownnationwide. Wearyour stickers andflip flops on Friday 20 February. Encourage friends,colleagues andcommunities to join. Shareyourphotos, tag CHOC, use #FlipFlopDay26 and help spreadawareness.

Flip Flop Daydemonstrateshow collective participation directly translatesinto practicalsupport.Whenjust20friends purchasea Flip Flop Daysticker,itcan help cover the average monthly transportcost for achild to traveltoand from treatment. When 30 friends getinvolved, it helps fund aCHOC Carebag, whichevery newly diagnosed childorteenager receives.These Carebags containessential items,aswell as aparenthandbook designedtohelpfamiliesunderstand andprepare .For information or to getinvolved, visit www.choc.org.za

Ke ngokokukhutshwaisazisongokwecandelo 49 lomthethi wobuRhulumente boMmandla ongeePropati zikaMasipala ongunomb.6wango2004(njengokoulungisiwe),aphoemveni koko ubizwa ngokuba “nguMthetho”,ukuba uLuhluloQingqomaxabiso ngokuphangaleleyo lwango2025 ukususela kowo1 kweyeKhala (Julayi) 2026,luvulelekileukuba liphononongwe kwa www.capetown.gov.za/propertyvaluationskwakhonaliyafumanekanakwiindawo zohlolo nezichaso zoluntu, ezidweliswengezantsi apha. Nawuphina umnikazi wepropati okanye omnye umntu naye uyamenywa ngokwecandelo49 loMthetho ukuba azokuhlola uluhlu ngokwezithubazamaxesha adweliswe ngezantsiapha, ngokungqinelana nomthetho,angeniseisichasongokujoliswe nayo nawuphina umbandela obonakalisiweyo,okanye othe washiyelelwa kuluhlu loqingqomaxabiso Kuthathelwa ingqalelo eyodwa ingakumbi kumbandela wokuba ngokwecandelo50 loMthetho isichasokufuneka singqinelane/sijoliswe kuloopropati yaloomntuhayi ngokujoliswe kuluhlu loqingqomaxabiso ngokungqalileyo.

Izichaso zingangeniswa nangayo nayiphinakwezindlela zilandelayo: Ukususela ngowama20 kweyoMdumba (Febhuwari) 2026 ukuyakowama30kuTshaziimpuzi (Epreli) 2026: •Kwiinkonzo ezifumaneka kwikhompyutha (neyonaingcono nefanelekileyo engokungenisa): www.capetown.gov.za/en/eservices •I-imeyile: valuationsobjection@capetown.gov.za

•Ukususela ngowama20 kweyoMdumba 2026 ukuyakowama31 kweyoKwindla 2026: Iungzangenisangokwakho,ngamaxeshaokusebenza,kwiindawo zohlolo nokungeniswa kwezichaso zoluntu, ezidweliswe ngezantsi apha.

Ifomuengokungeniswa kwezichasousebenzisa iimeyile okanye iindawo zohlolo,iyafumaneka kwiwebhusayithi yeSixeko

Kuyakuthi kuthathelwe ingqalelokuphelaizichaso ezinezizathuezivakalayo.

AZISAYI KUTHATHELWA INGQALELO IZICHASOEZINGENE EMVAKWEXESHA ELIMISELWEYO

Abanini bayakuthi baziswe ngokubhaliweyo ngokumalunga nezoqingqomaxabiso. Izaziso ziyakuthi zi-imeyilelwe okanye ziposelwe kusetyenziswaiinkcukacha ezikuvimba weSixeko. Unakho ukuba ufumane iziazisoezingoqongqomaxabiso lwepropatiyakho neeakhawunti zakhoaphousebenzisa i-imeyile. Thumela i-SMSyeadresi yeimeyilenenomboloyeakhawunti yakho, kwa 31223.

Ukuzeufumane enyeingcaciso: Izikolokufowunela uncedo: 0860 103 089 Iwebhusayithi: “http://www.capetown.gov.za”

Way

Parow Civic Centre

Street &Voortrekker Road Ngolwazi oluthe vetshe: Inombolo yoncedo: 086 010 3089

I-imeyile: valuationsobjection@capetown.gov.za Iwebhusayithi: www.capetown.gov.za/propertyvaluations

LUNGELOMBANDAZAYO

UMPHATHI WESIXEKO

CTA25/2026

Carnivaltoshowcase‘diversity’

KAYLYNNEBANTOM

With just over amonth to go,organisers of one of Cape Town’sbiggest annual events say the Cape Town Carnivalisready to bring theheART to the Green Point Fan Walk onSaturday21 March.

On Thursday12February,organisers gave themedia and other interestedpartiesabehind-the-scenesglimpseofall the preparations at theCape Town Carnival workshop in Mailtland.

JayDouwes,Cape Town Carnivalchief executive officer,said people can look forward to 10 beautifully handcrafted floats. She saidorganisers are excited to bring the 16th edition of the carnival to life

Adding to the excitement, this year’s event spotlights 11 “Champions” from CapeTown’s creative scene,including singer Anslin Gysman,local actor Natasha van der Merwe, DJ Ready D,graffitiartist Rizah Potgieter, anddesignerStephen van Eeden.

Tracey Carter, performancedirector, said there willbeentertainmentfor theentire family

“Someofour floats are alreadycompleted. Performers are gettingready with choreography, and costumes arealmostdone. We aregettingready to put on ashowlike Cape Town has neverseen before.”

She saidpeoplecan lookforwardtoa celebration of diversity.

“We are telling the different stories of the

Performersgavepatrons aglimpseofwhat canbeexpectedonevent day.

creatives from Cape Town.Asdifferent as theyare,that’s how different the pods are going to be.This yearwewillhaveour first Afrikaans pod. There willbesomething for everyone.”

Daphne Lodewykhas been aseamstress atthe Cape Town Carnival workshop for the past 10 years.

She said with less than amonth to go, she and hersmall team of three areworkingaroundthe clock to completeover 1000 costumes forthe bigday

“Weworkasateam,and each person knows what to do.Westillhavealot to do butthe bulk of the work is finished.”

Lodewyk said she stillgetsexcited despite doingthis forthe past decade

“Everyyearthe carnival is different. Differentthemes and different people. You meet alot of people andmakefriends.”

Shesaidoncarnivalday,they work tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure everyperformer looks dazzling

“Weare stationed in atent, dressing each performer anddoing alterations or fixing things.”

Prof Rachel Jaftha, chair of the Cape TownCarnivalTrust, said: “We areexcited becauseit’s just over amonth to go.This year we are following ourhearts. People will seeamazing creativity as always and the joy on the faces of the people participating. Donot miss the amazing follow-yourheartjourney with us.”

JP Smith,Mayco member forsafety and security, stressed the City’s unwavering commitment to the event.

“Thankyou forbringing this event to our city each year. This event is aboutsocial cohesion.It’sabout showing that there is much morethatunite us thanwhat divides us.”

ACTNyolohaScholarshipProgrammeapplicationsopen

The Arts &Culture Trust (ACT) has officially opened the highly anticipated applications forthis year’s NyolohaScholarshipProgramme.

Nowinits fifth iteration,the programme aimstoidentify,support,and develop exceptional artistic talent by providing access to accredited tertiaryeducation, professionalmentorship,and career development opportunities. Applications close on Sunday 5 April.

Each scholarship is fullypaid covering tuitionand study materials only, supporting studies in performing, visual, and digital artsstarting next year.

This year’s theme, #NyolohaTranscends, draws on the Sesotho word Nyoloha,meaning “torise”, andreflects ACT’scommitment to reaching talented young artists in communities where opportunity is limited but creative potentialis abundant.

It speaks to the organisation’s belief thatartisticexcellence exists everywhereand that, with the right support,artists cantranscendbarriers toaccess, training, mentorship andbuild sustainable creative careers.

Eligibleapplicants include SouthAfricanemerging artists aged 17 to 25 in the disciplines of acting, singing, dancing as well as visual and digital arts who areeitherinmatricornot yet studying artatatertiaryinstitution

Thisopportunity supports young artists whodonot have the financial means to study towards adegree in arts.

“Through theACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme, the ACT continuestoenableyoung artists to transcend financialand structuralbarriers,strengthening access to professional development and career pathways,” said Jessica Denyschen, chief executive officer of ACT.

The ACTNyoloha Scholarship Programmeisdelivered by ACT with the support of its strategic partners, including Nedbank and MTNSouth Africa PooviPillay, ExecutiveHead of the SocialImpactUnit at Nedbank, said last year60performing,visualand digitalartists from allnine provinces were selected to participateinthe threemonth training and mentorship thatforms part of the Nyoloha Scholarship Programmefrom which the scholarshipwinners were selected.

Niel Nortjé, Manager of the MTNArt Collectionsaid: “The acceleration of digitaltransformation forart skills development, jobcreation, and the pursuitof employing digital solutionsfor the cultural and creative industries, remainsa priority forthis partnership To applygotoact.org.za/nyoloha

Teams battle itout forBayhill honours

Lyle Cornellus of Stunturf United leapstocollect the ball ahead of TristanFortune of Young Bafanaduring aBayhillPremier Cupplay-off game playedinWynbergonSaturday14February.The matchended 1-1. PHOTOS:RASHIEDISAACS

LukhanyoDyani of Everton(Nyanga)shavesthe face of Onwaba Bovu of GreenpointSalesianswith his mid-airchallenge during around robin play-off matchofthe Bayhillpremier cup played in Wynbergon Saturday14February.Everton won1-0

Your one-stopschool sport shop

The electric atmosphere of a Saturdaymorning derby. The deafeningwar criesechoing across packedgrandstands.The sea of supporters draped in school colours, ready to backtheir boys andgirls to the final whistle. The traditionsthat run deeper than any trophy cabinet.

School sports in South Africa aren’tjust about what happens on the field—it’sabout the entire experience,the culture,the passion thatsplitstowns in half and creates heroes overnight.

And from Thursday 19 February, NovaNews is about to revolutionise how we celebrate itall

NovaNews is launching The School Sports Zone,a dynamic, one-stop destination dedicated entirely to school sports across South Africa. Thisisn’t your typ-

ical results-and-rankingscover-

age. Thisisthe full package: the stories behind the scorelines, the supporterswho bringthe ‘gees’, the flashesand warcries that make schoolsport the most emotionally charged spectacle

The SchoolSports Zone will be the authoritative destination celebrating emerging talent, preserving legendary rivalries, and building the foundation forthe future ofSouth Africansport.

Becauseevery Springbok, every Protea, everynational representative started somewhere, andthat somewhereisusually aschool fieldona Saturdaymorning.

NovaNews isn’t stopping at written coverage.

Accompanying the launchis

The Rugby Factory, adedicated vod- and podcastthat dives deep-

er than ever before into the heartbeatofschool rugby in South Africa

Thisisstorytelling with substance. It is abouttracking tomorrow’s Springboksfromthe grassroots to the bigleagues, capturing the journey, the sacrifice, the rivalry, andthe moments that define young athletesbefore the professional contracts.

“School sports is at the heart of so many communities in South Africa,” says Dustin Wetdewich, NationalSports Editorof NovaNews.“With TheRugby Factory, we’re notjust covering matches; we’re telling the stories of tomorrow’sSpringboks.”

Wetdewich is clear—whilstrugby willfeature prominently, The SchoolSports Zone’s ambition stretches across every code,every

discipline, everyschool making noise on the sporting landscape

“Beyond rugby,ifithas anything to do with school sports, we want to be talking about it,” Wetdewich explains.“There are greatstories to tellaroundschool sports.

“Supporters andschool communities aren’t just engaged; they areemotionally and, in many cases, financially invested.Small towns split in half when derby weekends come around. Heroes arebornand superstars aremade.

“All this makes for amazing storytelling."

Whatsets TheSchool Sports Zone apartisits understanding that schoolsportisnever just aboutthe athletes.

It’s about thesupporterswho travel hourstoscream them-

Youngcricketers hone their skills at mini cricketfestival

selveshoarse. It’sabout the flashes choreographedwith military precision. It’sabout the school chants passed downthrough generations. It’sabout the communities thatliveand breathe every result.

NovaNews is changingthe game by capturingthe atmosphere,the emotion, andthe culture.

From 19 February, TheSchool SportsZone becomes the home of everything that makes school sport unforgettable. Thestage is set.

Find TheSchool Sports Zone: Website: https://novanews.co za/

FollowThe Rugby Factory: TikTok: @therugbyfactoryza X: RugbyFactory_sa

Instagram: therugbyfactory_sa Facebook: TheRugby Factory

SomangayeMpalala of Jabula Brothers FC from Nyangaisonthe receivingend of awellexecuted tacklebyVeron November of Bishop Lavis FC during aBayhill Premier Cupround robin match played in WynbergonSunday 15 February.Lavis won3-1.See more on page 11. PHOTO: RASHIED ISAACS