People's Post Constantia/Wynberg E-edition 17 March 2026
HoutBay’s Ward 74 facesa mixofopportunitiesand challenges,fromageing infrastructure anddensification to community engagement and servicedelivery.
Ward councillorRob Quintas shared hisperspective on thestate of theward, outliningachievements over thepastyear, ongoingconcerns, andplans forthe months ahead.
“Despite thechallenges experienced duetodensification in both formal andinformalresidential areas, matchedwithold infrastructure,in generalthe City remainsresponsive in termsofquick turnaround times forwater andsanitationand energy disruptions,”Quintas said.Headded that residentsare kept informed throughregular updatesonrepairs andmaintenance,which he said helps communities feel reassuredduring unplannedservice interruptions
responsive,but is creasingly proactive in addressing theseissues,with largewater pipe replacementprogrammesunderwayand massive bulk sewerlineimprovementsonthe cards forthe next financialyears,” he said He also mentionedthatadditional electricitymetersare beingrolledout to informal homes, alongsidethe provision fornew substationsand other
areas; however, eC y does dailycollections andcleansing in theseareas in an efforttoimprove livability,” Quintassaid. Thefrequency andeffectiveness of thesecollectionswerenot independentlyverified, leavingroom forfurther inquiry.
TOPAGE3
we’retheir voice.
and rehoming since 1929.
Allroads lead to carnival
KAYLYNNEBANTOM
Excitementismountingfor oneofthe biggest street events on Cape Town’s eventcalendartakingplace on Saturday21March.
Colour,music andmovementwilltakeover theGreen PointFan Walk when over 1000 performersand 10 stunning floats parade through the16thCapeTownCarnival.
With just afew days to go,carnivalorganisers sayits allsystems go to bringspectatorsan unforgettableevent
JayDouwes, Cape Town Carnival chiefexecutive officer, says theday promises to be funfilled andsuitablefor theentirefamily.
“The carnival hassomething foreveryone. It is somethingthatbringspeopletogether. We have dancersfromacrossthe WesternCapetaking part.Wedecided to move theevent to abit later in themonth becausewewould like ourMuslim supporterstojoinusaswell.”
Douwes says that there’ll be pre-entertainment andfoodvendors to keep carnival watchershappy from 15:00to18:00.
Theinaugural 1kmFun Runstartsat16:30 with threeraces –and have some prizes on offer
“The Carnival opensat18:00 when the pre-parade starts,featuring crowdfavourites like theHarleyDavidsons andthe Fire Fightersand LawEnforcement Officers showingoff theirmoves.After themainparadeiscomplete,
there’ll be theafter partytoenjoy untilmidnightfeaturing carnival supporter YoungstaCPT andother greatDJs.”
This year,the eventwillfeature 10 “Champions” drawnfromthe city’s creative community Whilethese championswon’t appear on the floats themselves,their artistry andstories have shaped thelook,energyand spirit of thepod spectators will see.
Amongthe 10 chosen championsisartist andperformer Terry Fortune, whopromisesa
COLOUR,MUSIC AND MOVEMENT WILL TAKE OVER THE GREEN POINT FANWALK
dazzlingdisplay of theatrical magicunder the themeFollowYourHeART Fortunesayshefeelshonouredtoformpart of this year’s carnival.“Iwas thrilledwhen they askedmetobepartofthe carnival.Tobe part of somethinglikethe floats is something different.”
Fortunesaysthe eventaimstoupliftcommunities andoffer amomentofjoy during challengingtimes
“Weare living in uncertaintimes,and the intentionofthe carnival is to create joy, bring back memories andcreatedelight.”
Fortunesaysbeyondthe spectacleand celebration, thecarnivalalsocreates opportunities foremploymentand tourismwhile promoting theimportanceofthe arts.“Thecarnivalcreates jobopportunitiesand opportunitiesfor people to gain experience.The carnival is importantto celebratethe relevanceofCapeTownand how it canboosttourism.Itisimportant that we use everyopportunitytomakethe public awarethat theartsisstill alive.”
Novusmedia,which publishes People’s Post, is aproud printmedia sponsorofthe event.
LocalisLekkeratTableMountainCableway
With theschool holidays on thecards,the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company(TMACC) invitesSouth Africans to take advantageofits popularLocal is Lekkerspecial,currently available untilThursday30April
Thepromotion offersSouth Africans discounted return ticketsatR250per adultand R100 perchild,makingone of thecity’smosticonic outingsfar more accessiblefor families over the Easter break.
Thespecial is availableonlineonly(SA ID required), andtickets must be purchasedahead of thevisit,assame–dayonlinesales arenot permitted.
With theEasterlongweekendand school holidaysfastapproaching, TMACCsaysthe offer is expected to give localtourism awelcome boost whileallowingmoreresidents to enjoyone of theNew7Wonders of Nature withoutstretching theholiday budget
Adding to theseasonalfun,TMACC is again hostingits belovedEasterEgg Hunt,thisyear with adigital twist.
pletechallenges fora chance to wina chocolate-filledhamperand aCablewayexperience.
Theapp,available on both theAppleApp Storeand Google Play,offersseveral helpful toolstoensurea smoothand enjoyablevisit Guests cancheck theoperational status of the Cableway,viewqueue timesand monitorreal–time summitweather conditions
Theplatformalsoincludesplanning features designed to help visitors avoidpeakperiods and navigate themountain’sfamouslyunpredictable weather.
With affordableticketprices, afun digitalEasteractivity, andsmart planning toolsathand, this holidayseasonofferslocalsthe perfect chance to rediscover TableMountain.
“School holidays provideanopportunityfor families to exploreCapeTowntogether, and making theCablewaymoreaffordableensures that more locals canshare in theexperience,” says TMACCmanagingdirectorWahidaParker.
“Weare pleasedtooffer valuethatencourages people to reconnect with TableMountain.”
TableMountain Aerial Cableway Companyhas extendedits popular LocalisLekkerspecial until Thursday30April. PHOTO:KAYLYNNE BANTOM
Theyouth canleadusout of the darkness
andsolving some of theproblems ourselves.
On theprecipice of theVietnam war, famous folk singer BobDylan once sung:“Well youbetterstart swimming or you’ll sink like a stonecause thetimes they are-achangin”
Thesetimelesswords seem so prescientand ominousinthe uncertaintimes we find ourselvestoday, in thewakeofthe bloodywar in theMiddle-East,inflation, the Ukraineinvasion, Trump’spresidency andArtificial Intelligence (AI) modifyingand “streamlining” theway we work.Sadly,the skills more people aredevelopinglately arerelated to howto“perfect” their AI promptstovisualise aconcept insteadofstrugglingtounderstand photographyorlearn an instrument anduse critical thinking
Idread thelong-term effects on ourbrain processing powerafter decadesofrelying on producing promptsinstead of pondering
It is oftensaidthateachgenerationassumestheyare living in the“endtimes”, whilethe onepreceding it feelsthattoday’s youth are“doomed,spoilt, entitled”and frying theirbrainswithTikTokand Instagram.
Whetherit’sthe baby boomers emerging from WorldWar 2, millennialswitnessing changes in music, movies andcomputers reshapingour dailylives.Today we find Gen-Zcaughtinthe throes of social media, politicalturmoil between theleftand theright and survivinga pandemic that shackled theworld to slow down
However, I find Gen-Z’s social consciousnessand urge to call out injusticewhenitcomes to racism anddiscriminationsoimportant andsoinspiring when it comesto unitinginthe name of love,peace andunderstanding,especially with thefar-right so eagertomockand belittletheir voices andstake in the world.
We arebut onespecies who alldependoneachother forour
survival andyet politicalideologies andreligious extremists continue to divide us andevenleadto wars anddeath wherehospitals andschools filledwithchildren, arereduced to ashesand become “collateraldamage” Sadly, some of us lack thecuriosityand empathytoimagine what itslikegrowing up in adifferent background,culture,way of eating andcelebrating life
It’s such ajoy to travel andmeet someoneand theirfamilyfroma differentbackgroundand sharea homecooked meal around atable andsee howsimilar we arewhenit comestoproviding afulfilling life we canbeproud of
Each of us is swimming in adark, mysterious current that candrown us or inspireustoswim.
As ordinary citizens we have to navigate,survive thechallenges that meet us in each revolvingera, Godforbidwe find ourselvesin WorldWar 3.
We oweittoour children andthe next generation whoare hungry to help theworld andlivea life that is unique to them,tosupport them
andguide them on theirmission to make theirmarkinsociety
Ourparents always speakfondly of thegoldenoldiestheylistened to growinguplikethe BeeGee’s, BobMarleyand WhitneyHouston andsimpler times, so tooare the next wave of youtheager to see howtoday’s artistswillprovide the soundtracktotheir lives. There’sa reason whythe 80s soundeddifferenttothe 90s, anew dawn haddescended with new exciting ideas. Thus Iremainoptimisticthat theyouth canleadusout of the darkness that breedsdivision, hatred,warfare anddeliver us to amomentintimewhere we can speaktoeachother around atable insteadofshoutingand justifying ouropinions. Amidst thesocialupheavalofthe 60sanother inspiringtunebyThe Beatlesechoedonthe airwaves andstill soothestothisday with thesimplemessage whichsaid, “all youneed is love”. This simple mantracan heal theworld forthose whowishtolistenand thosewho choosetocare.
Among the 10 chosenchampions is artist and performer TerryFortune. PHOTO:SUPPLIED
LionsClub men brave highheelsfor women
OFROMPAGE1
AccordingtoQuintas,the installation of approximately400 newelectricity meters in ImizamoYethu hasimprovedbothdignity andsafetyfor residents. He also citedthe near completion of theValleyRoadnon-motorised corridor, whichprovidessafepathwaysfor pedestrians, cyclists,and horseriders. Upgrades to theHoutBay Common,including picnic benchesand atimberjunglegym,have been well used by residentsacrossthe ward “These projects arepartofanefforttobalance essentialserviceswithimprovementstopublic spaces that allresidents canenjoy,” Quintas said
Whilethese developments aresignificant,he didnot providespecifictimelines forcompletion or reach, particularly in informal areas, highlighting gaps in publicly available information
INFRASTRUCTUREANDENVIRONMENTALCHALLENGES
Quintashighlighted waterand sewersystems as ongoingchallenges.HoutBay’s steep topographymakes moving wateruphilldifficult,particularlygiven olderpipes.Sewerinfrastructure in informal areasisunder pressure,partlydue to illegaldumping andforeign objects entering thesystem, whichcan causeoverflows. He also notedthatthese issues mayaffectriversand naturalwaterways when contaminants enterthe stormwater system
WhileQuintas emphasised improvements, therewerenodetails on expected completion datesormeasurableoutcomesfor theseprogrammes, suggesting areasfor further reportingand resident feedback
SAFETYANDPOLICING
Community safety in theward, Quintassaid, relies on collaboration betweenMetro Police,Neighbourhood Safety Officers,Citylaw enforcementunits,the Hout Baypoliceand theCommunity CrimePreventionNon-Profit Company. Jointoperationsaim to tackle crime whilevisible patrolsact as adeterrent
“The cooperationhas made atangibledifference in reducing crimeand improvingresidents’ senseofsafety,”hesaid. Thefeature does notinclude independentverification or resident
Fiftychildren from Westlaketook part in acommunityclean-uponSaturday14March as part of theBag-aBurgerproject hosted by the Lions Club of Tokai. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Westlakechildrencleanarea
NAMHLAMONAKALI
FiftychildrenfromWestlaketook part in a community clean-up on Saturday 14 Marchas part of theBag-a-Burgerproject hosted by the LionsClubofTokai
Theinitiativewas organisedinpartnership with Blue RouteMalland WimpyBlueRoute Mall, andcoincided with theInternational Day of Action forRivers.
Children worked together to cleanstreetsin theirneighbourhood,collectinglitterinthe areaswhere they live andplay.
During theactivity, organisers also focusedon environmentaleducation.Childrenweretaught whya cleanenvironment matters, howlitter affects rivers andwildlife, andhow smalldaily actionscan make adifference in theircommunities
Ahighlight of theday wasa visitfromBingo, theanti-littermascotofthe City of Cape Town Bingoand theteamspoke to thechildren aboutthe impact of littering,properwaste disposal andthe benefits of recycling.
Theinteractive session encouraged children to askquestions andshare what they had learned. Afterthe clean-up,eachchild received ahamburger meal andfruit as athank-you for theirefforts
Themealbreak also gave participants time to socialiseand reflectonthe morning’swork.
“ProjectslikeBag-a-Burgerhelpchildrenunderstand theimportanceoflookingafter their environmentwhile also bringing thecommunity together,” said Mark Rossouw,media chairof theLions Club of Tokai.
Rossouw said theclubappreciatedthe support from Ward 71 councillorCarolyneFranklin, whoassisted with refusebagsfor theclean-up. He addedthatthe restuarant sponsoredthe meals, whileBlueRoute Mall partneredwith theclubtohostthe projectand support logistics on theday
Thevenue forthe eventwas provided by the Westlake United Church Trust, whichservedas acentral meetingpoint forthe children,organisersand volunteers.
Rossouw also thankedclubmembers and community volunteerswho helped coordinate theevent,supervise thechildrenand manage operations throughout theday
perspectives on crime, whichcould provide additional insight.
YOUTHANDCOMMUNITYENGAGEMENT
Hout Bayhas avariety of community facilities supportingyouth programmes.
TheHoutBay Sports ComplexinImizamo Yethu, includinga refurbished AstroTurfsoccer pitch, acommunity hall, anda skatepark, provides spaces fororganised sports andyouth programmes In Hangberg,the Multi-PurposeCentre, AstroTurf, andCivic Centre housebasketball, dance, soccer, volleyball, andseniors programmes. “These initiativesplayanimportantroleincreatingopportunitiesfor young people andfostering community engagement,” Quintassaid. Thescale andreach of theseprogrammes, however, were notquantified
BUDGETANDUPCOMINGPROJECTS
Quintassaida significant portionofthe ward’s budget went to completing theValley Road non-motorisedtransport project, upgradingthe Hout BayCommon, andproviding librarieswithbooks, games, andfurniture Seasonal projects,suchasChristmas decorations, were also funded.
Quintasacknowledgedthatfunding remains aconstraint. “HoutBay is oneofover100 wardsinthe City,and we have to competefor resources. Despitethese challenges,HoutBay is certainlyprovidedfor in termsofinfrastructure upgrades,plannedprogrammes, andmore regularservicestodisadvantaged communities,” Quintassaid.
Lookingahead,Quintas highlightedplans forhousing developments in ImizamoYethu andHangberg, upgrades to Oudeskip Park in Hangberg andCarmelParkinNorthshore, andthe continuation of thepipereplacement programme.
“Residents canexpectprogressinaddressing housingneeds, public spaces,and infrastructure this year,” he said.“Hout Baycontinues to enjoystronginterestfromresidents and visitors,and we arecommittedtomaintaining thewardasa safe andvibrant community.”
Ward62aimsto‘deliverservices’
NAMHLAMONAKALI
Ward62councillorEmile Langenhovensaysservice delivery in the area remainssolid,withelectricity, refuse collectionand waterservices performing well, butrisinghomelessness anddelayed infrastructure projects continue to challengeresidents.
“Ona scaleofone to ten, Iwould give service delivery in my ward an eight,”Langenhoven says.“Ourroads areinverygood shape, except wherereinstatementsare required.”
Theward’s2025/26 budget of just over R1 million supportslibraries,parks,youth programmesand community services,while initiativessuchasWaterlooGreen Park aimto providesaferecreationalspace forlearners.
Waterand sanitation:Exceeded themayor’s target of 100kmofnew waterpipes last year
HOMELESSNESSANDSAFETY
Homelessnessremains apriority. Langenhovenchairsthe Homeless Alliance committee, bringing together organisations, residentsand lawenforcement to create pathways to dignity.
“Whenhumaneattempts to help people off the streetsare exhausted, thelaw must be used to maintain safety,” he says Safety in Constantia is supported by theConstantiaNeighbourhood Watch, Neighbourhood Safety Officers,and privatesecurityproviders MetroPoliceassist theSouth AfricanPolice Service(Saps), theprimary authority.
COMMUNITYANDYOUTHENGAGEMENT
WynbergLibrary Offersreading,outreachand
digitalliteracyprogrammes.
FriendsofParishParkResidents-led initiative to improvethe park forchildrenand families
WynbergBusinessForum Supportslocal businessesthrough advocacy andengagement with theCity.
FriendsofWynberg Park Welcomes new memberstobring freshideas forpublicspaces. Quarterlywardcommitteemeetings and
direct communicationwithresidents ensure community concerns shapeplanning andbudgetpriorities.
PRIORITIES INCLUDE RELIABLE INFRASTRUCTURE AND CLEAN PUBLIC SPACES
Booksand materials: R93991
WynbergParkpathway:R230000
Parish Park furniture:R30000
OperatingprojectsR635000
Libraryprogrammes: R75000
Area cleaning:R170000
Youthdevelopment computers: R100000
CCTVand licenceplate recognition: R100000
Alienvegetationremoval R70000
Park maintenancetools: R20000
CanalcleaningR100000
“The budget focusesonlibraries,parks,public spaces,and youthdevelopment,while maintainingcoreservices,”Langenhoven says
PARKIMPROVEMENTSFORLEARNERS
Waterloo Green Park,behindSimon vander Stel PrimarySchool,willprovide safe play space forGrade Rlearners.
“A generous resident hasoffered to fund moving an electricitycable,which haddelayed theproject,” he explains.“Iwillalsosubmita requesttothe MayoralFundfor fencing.”
Residentshaveoffered to assist with fencing, demonstratingstrongcommunity collaboration Lookingahead Langenhovensayspriorities forthe coming year includereliableinfrastructure,clean public spaces,responsivemunicipal services,and stronger community engagement
“The strength of ourcommunity lies in the willingness of residents, businessesand civic organisationstoworktogether,”hesays. “I encourageresidents to partnerwithusaswe builda safe,functional, andfuture-focused community.”
Have your say, email peoplespost@novusmedia.co.za
Bayhillsupports Cansarelayforlife
TheBayhill PremierCup 2026,a premieryouth football tournament over theEasterweekend, announceda formal pledge of support to the Cancer AssociationofSouth Africa (Cansa)and their flagship initiative CansaRelay forlife.
"The BayhillPremier Cuphas long stood for more than just excellenceonthe pitch, it stands forthe developmentand well-beingofour communities.Canceraffects thousandsofSouth Africanfamiliesevery year,cutting across all demographics.Cansa hasbeen at theforefront of this battlesince 1931,providing vitalresearch,publiceducation andsupport services," says Rayaan Alie,tournamentdirectorofthe BayhillPremier Cup.
TheCansa Relayfor life is taking placeonFriday27and Saturday 28 MarchatVygieskraal Stadiumfrom18:00 to 06:00. "
TheBayhill PremierCup is cheeringonthose whoare in thebattle fighting cancer Ourtournamentisbuilt on thespiritofteamwork andresilience– values that aremirrored everyday by thoseundergoingtreatment and thefamiliessupportingthem. To kickstartthis initiative,the BayhillPremier Cup2026hereby pledgesR5000 toward Cansa’scareand support programmes. However, we believethatthe collectivepower of theWestern Cape business community cantakethiscontributionmuch further,” Alie says.“We areofficially calling on allbusinesses, clubs, corporatepartners, and entrepreneursacrossCapeTownand theWesternCapetojoinus. We challengeyou to equal or betterour pledge of R5 000,"hesays. Everyrandraisedhelps Cansaprovide: . Essentialscreenings andearly detection programmes.
. Medicalequipment hire andwigsfor patients
. Home-based care andemotional support for affectedfamilies.
Smallergroups, teamsand peers(10 -15pax) canjointhe relayatVygiesKraal Stadiumfor anominal donation of just R1 000.
. Businesses interested in joining the pledgeor partnering with the BayhillPremierCup in this causeare encouraged to contact our mediaoffice directlyonmedia@premiercup-bayhill.co.zafor donation details
Ward 62 councillorEmile Langenhovensaysservicedeliveryinthe area remains solid, with electricity, refusecollection and waterservices performing well,but rising homelessness and delayed infrastructure projectscontinue to challengeresidents. PHOTO:SUPPLIED
TheCape’sfuturein‘good hands’
CRAMME DEVELOPED GIVE YOUNG PEOPLE TINTOHOW LOCAL RNMENT WORKSIN TOWN
ns into action”. sthe firststepping stonetowards ealchangeinthe livesofrealpeople rwardtoworking with my ward norder to resolveour civicprobsselsaidheiseager to betterundercalgovernmentworks romisestoteach itscouncillors ructures of localgovernment. lshowushow to tackle community themosteffective wayand allocate resourcesinplacesthatmatter.” st five yearsthe programme has eadedbyDonovan Nelson,Ward65 ho played akey role in building the mand expandingthe programme also sees twonewly appointed ansofthe programme,NicoleSukers, rfor subcouncil 11, andNicola rd 54 councillor. id:“Ilook forwardtobeing involved amme that will notonlyinspire but etoassist andengagewithCape eleaders.Every youngperson tinunderstanding thepolitical tand hopefully it createsthe opor more youngpeopletobeactively thepolitical sphere.” eves Cape Town’s futureisin“very .“What stood outduringthe oristhe enthusiasm andwillingness of people to step forwardand getinesaidthe JCCisa powerful example zenship.
edignity
ns many younggirls miss school, d, or areforcedtomanagetheir nsafeand undignified ways.Whena tmanageher period safely,itdirectly ducation,her confidence, andher rtunities. Somethingasnatural as on should neverprevent agirlfrom chool or dreaming abouther future,”
ughthe work of NHFshe is imngebyproviding sanitary pads to erserved communities andoffer ivesexualand reproductive health nschools. Shenoticed that it reduces ,helps preventteenagepregnancy, ersyoung people to make informed bout theirbodies. ring InternationalMenstruMonth, NHFwillbelaunching a partnerwithcorporationsand leaderstosupport 21 schoolsin dcommunities is to ensure that theseschoolshave nitary pads foranentireyearsothat tend school withoutinterruption. od povertycannotbethe responsieorganisationalone oreinformation contact Chantelle wheritagesa@gmail.com.
resident Chantelle Goliathiscampaignemoreyoung women with sanitary UPPLIED
AsSouth Africa marksHuman Rights Monthunder thetheme “Billof Rights at 30:MakingHuman Dignity Real”
Refugees rebuilding theirlives in Cape Town saydignity andequalityremaincentral to their journeys
HumanRightsMonth is observed every March, culminatinginHuman Rights Dayon 21 March. Thecommemoration is rooted in the Sharpeville Massacre, when apartheidpolice opened fire on peaceful protestors,killing 69 people andexposingthe brutalityofthe pass lawsystem.
More than sixdecades later, theobservance encourages reflection on thecountry’s progress sincethe adoption of theConstitutionof theRepublicofSouth Africa,which enshrines equality,dignity andfreedom throughthe Bill of Rights.Thisyear’stheme highlights 30 years sincethe Constitution came into effectand calls on SouthAfricanstoreflectonhow therightsit guarantees arerealisedineverydaylife.
Organisationsworking with displacedcommunities saythe themeisparticularlyrelevant forrefugees andasylumseekersrebuildingtheir livesinthe country.
At theScalabriniCentreofCapeTown, programmessupport refugees andmigrants throughlegal assistance,employmentsupport andintegration initiativesaimed at helping newcomersnavigatelifeinSouth Africa
“Rebuildinglifeafter displacement often involves overcoming significant structural bar-
FACE CHALLENGESSUCHASDOCUMENTATION,SECURING EMPLOYMENT AND FINDING STABLEHOUSING
riers,”saysJames Chapman, Head of Advocacy andLegal Advisoratthe centre
Many refugees arrive in Cape Town after fleeingconflict, persecutionoreconomichardship in theirhomecountries
Once in SouthAfrica, they face challenges such as accessing documentation, securing employment and findingstablehousing
People whodonot have asylum transitvisas issued at aportofentry arebarredfromapplyingfor asylum unless they canestablish good causefor notobtaining thevisa.
“The provisions barring access to asylum make it virtually impossiblefor people with genuinerefugee claims to access andapplyfor asylum in SouthAfrica,”headds
Substantialdelaysinprocessing asylum and refugee documents, as well as delays in theasylumappealprocess, further complicate matters
Thesedocumentation challenges have aripple effectonaccessing services forrefugees and theirfamilies.
Whilethe Cape Town refugee receptionOffice wassubstantially upgraded andofficially reopened in 2023,policyand legislativebarriers mean asylum seekersremainundocumentedfor extended periods, leavingthemvulnerableto exploitation,discriminationand,insomecases, arrest,detention or deportation.
Chapmansayshuman dignityfor refugees
involves “livingina spacewithfreedom of movement,agencyand opportunitytointegrate andliveinpeace andharmony with thehost population forthe growth anddevelopment of therefugee, theirfamilyand thecommunity around them
“Human dignityincludesbeing able to study or work andput food on thetable foryourself andyourchildren.”
Chapmanalsohighlightscommonmisconceptions aboutrefugees.Manyinthe public do notrealise refugees areinSouth Africa notby choice butbecause they were forced to flee violence, persecutionorwar-torncircumstances
Refugees positively contribute to societyand oftenholdroles that arefundamental to thefabricofthe community.
“Wewould encouragethe public to take cognisance of thecircumstances that caused refugees to flee, andtoliveand work with refugee communities to thebenefitofall living in thecommunity,” he says
As SouthAfricareflects on threedecades of constitutional democracy, advocatessay the focusremains on ensuring dignityand equality arenot only constitutional principles butlived realities.
HumanRightsmonth provides an opportunity forcommunities to reflectonthe country’spast whileworking towardsa futureinwhich the protectionscontained in theBillofRightsare experiencedbyall.
HUMANRIGHTSARE NOTPRIVILEGES
Iwas bornduring one of the darkest periods in SouthAfrica’s history. Forpeopleofmygeneration, Human RightsDay is not just apublic holiday. It is areminder of fear,struggle and courage. This dayisobservedon21March to remember those killedduring the Sharpeville Massacrein1960. Masses protestedpeacefully againstthe pass laws,which reduced human beingstodocuments and permissions Police opened fire, and many liveswerelost. Although I wasbornlater,the stories of Sharpeville were always present in our communities.Theyreminded us thatapartheid wasnot onlyapolitical systembut asocialorder builtto control movement, opportunityand dignity. Istillremember amoment from my childhood. Iwas about 11 and had abig afro thatcouldeasilymakemelook like agirl. During atenseperiod in our homeinNew Brighton, my mother dressedmelikeagirl, placed a doek over my head,and told me to lieinbed as if Iweresick.
At the time,I did not understand.TodayIknowitwas her wayofprotecting me,quietlyresisting asystemthat sought to strip us of safety and dignity.
Colonialism and apartheid took land, freedom and opportunity, buttheycould nevertakeour humanity, resilienceorbeliefinjustice.
Human rights arenot privileges, theyare the foundation of what it means to be human.
Everyperson deservesdignitysimplybecausetheyare human, and that shouldnever be up fordebate. When South Africabecameademocracyin1994, it represented hope and amoral commitment to equality and dignity.
To the next generation, Ihope,willrealise the freedoms theyenjoycameata greatcost.
Protect them. Upholdthem. Defend the humanityof everySouth African, everyday Freedom washardwon. Protecting dignityisnow the responsibilityofevery generation.
-ANDILE MONAKALI -EMAIL
Readersexpresstheir viewsonhuman rights
As SouthAfricareflects on thelegacy of theSharpeville Massacreon21 March1966 andthe sacrificesmade by thosewho fought forfreedom andjustice,the conversation around humanrightsremains as important todayasitwas decadesago
Theeventsofthatday serveasa powerful reminder of thecostofinequality andthe ongoingresponsibilitytoprotect andpromote therights of everypersoninthe country. While significant progress hasbeen made sincethe dawn of democracy, many communities stillfacechallenges that affecttheir basicrightsand quality of life.Withthisinmind, People’s Post askedreaders whichhuman righttheybelieve deserves themost attentioninSouth Africa today, and whytheyfeel it is an issuethatneeds urgent focus.
Alaric Jacob says:“Theright to food:there aresomanyinour countrywho arehungryand don’t have food.The unemployment levels aresohighand if we canhaveless restrictions forpeopletoactually do work forthemselves. So,let us help more people to getworksothatwe canfeed more people andmakethat difference.”
AlishiaDaniels believes theright to freedomand security needsurgent attention. “Itneedsattentionbecause criminalsare beinglet free even though they areguiltyoftrespassing andcompromisingthe safety of other individuals.”
Kgomotso Mhlakazi says:“It’s very difficult to just chooseone becausemostofthese humanrights need immediateattention. However,I’d go with protection services
becausethe levelofviolenceinthis countryiscrazy.GBV is aserious crisis in this country. We arenot safe in ourown houses,childrenare not safe at schools, thereare gangseverywhere,drugs everywhere.It’sjust violence andthe lawand ourjustice system aretoo lenientonthe perpetrators. We hear of scholartransport accidentsdue to reckless drivingand children dyingbecause there’snoone to enforceroadrules andthere are no harshconsequences, people do as they wish,pay abribe andmoveon. We hear of shootoutsevery day, rape casesand domestic abuse. Thereare killingsofwhistle-blowers,there are politicalkillings. Idon’t feel safe as a SouthAfrican andI stress aboutmy children’s safety everyday.Prisoners live agoodlifebecause they getfree meals, shelter, electricity, education andhealthcare.
MbuyiseloSibambane says womenand children’s rights must be prioritised. “Itissad to hear thereisa one-year-old childraped by heruncle or awoman killedbyher partner, and youask yourself wherethiscountry is going. Thegovernmentmustmake sure that it protects them andthatthe perpetrators stay behind bars.”
Nandipha Gxowa says women andchildren’srightsneed to be given attention.
Shesaysshe wantsthe government to impose astringent sentence on people whoare abusingwomen andchildren. “I don’tthink people whoare raping children andkilling womendeserve bail.Theyneed to rot in jail.Every dayweare complaining aboutthe same thing.”
Gary Adams says:“Thetwo most
pressing issues,inmyhumbleview, facing SouthAfrica, is housingfor our people andsafer communities (police areunderfundedand understaffed). Ourgovernmenthas failed our citizens on both theseconstitutional humanrights.”
MpumiSomlota says:“Housing andcrime.The people arestill living in informal settlements aftersomany years. Thehighcrime rate is butone of themanysideeffects of theinformalsettlements.Withwinteraround thecorner, my heartbleedsfor our people.”
SamkeloNonkumbi says:“The crimeisatanall-time high andpolice visibility needstobemore. Our people aredying andthe poor are sufferingthe most.”
Shiela Ndileka says:“Ireally want thefaultydrainstoget more attention in ourarea. It’s notonlydangerous forroadusers butalsoour children Thepotholesare very badand it damages thecars.”
LindseyJantjies says:“My favourite humanright is theright to privacy becauseitprotectsmypersonal freedom anddignity.Privacy allows people to keep theirpersonalinformation,thoughts, andconversations safe from others unless they choose to sharethem. It also givesindividuals thefreedom to make decisions withoutbeing constantly watchedor judged.For thesereasons,I believe theright to privacyisone of themost importanthuman rights,especially in my line of work,everyoneisall of asuddentracing agents.I hadto lock my Facebook accountand usea separate number becausemineisall over Cape Town.”
Alaric Jacobs
KgomotsoMhlakazi
Alishia Daniels
Nandipha Gxowa
MbuyiseloSibambane
GaryAdams
Mpumi Somlota
SamkeloNonkumbi
Shiela Ndileka Lindsey Jantjies
Legendary Ibrahim at Jazz Festival
The renowned SouthAfrican jazz maestroAbdullahIbrahim is set to gracethe stageonceagain at this year’s Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF)takingplace from Friday 27 to Saturday 28 Marchatthe Cape Town InternationalConvention Centre (CTICC)
Knownfor hisprofoundinfluenceonthe jazz scenebothlocally andglobally,Ibrahim’s performancesare nothingshort of transformative Hisuniqueblend of traditionalAfrican sounds with jazz harmonieshas made himan iconic figure,cherished by generationsoffans. Ibrahim’sperformance will notjustbea concertbut aheartfelt celebrationofresilience, culture, andthe enduring powerofmusic
Widely celebrated as oneofthe world’sgreatestpianistsand composers, Ibrahim’scareer spansmorethansix decadesand is rooted in therichculturaltapestryofDistrictSix,where he wasbornand firstdeveloped hisdistinctive sound.
As apioneering figure in SouthAfrican music, Ibrahimformedthe Dollar BrandTrioin1958 and, in 1959,co-foundedThe Jazz Epistles alongsideHughMasekela, KippieMoeketsi, JonasGwangwa,Johnny Gertze andMakaya Ntshoko.
Theirrecording became the firstjazzalbum by SouthAfrican musicians.
HISWORK BLENDS AFRICANIDIOMS,GOSPEL INFLUENCESAND CAPE JAZZ
That same year,hebegan alifelongpartnership with vocalist SathimaBea Benjamin Hiscompositions, includingthe iconic “Manenberg(Is WhereIt’sHappening)”,became cultural touchstonesand contributedtothe soundtrack of theanti-apartheidmovement.
Following the1960 Sharpeville massacreand intensifying apartheidrepression,Ibrahim went into exile.
In Zürich,Sathima introduced himtoDuke Ellington, leadingtorecordingsand major European appearances.
AfterMandela’s release, he returned home in 1990 andlater performedatthe presidential inauguration in 1994,marking ahistoric homecoming
Having spentmanyyears living,recording, andtouring internationally,Ibrahim’s artistry hasbeenshapedbycollaborationswithglobal legendsand exposure to diversemusical traditions.
Ticketsfor thefestivalare availableonTicketmaster with BuyNow PayLater optionson Loot
Renowned South African jazz maestro,Abdullah Ibrahim, is settograce thestage again at this year’s Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF). PHOTO:SUPPLIED
Advertise your Services,Products, Promotions and build your Brand in the greater Constantia/Wynberg area
