PeoplesPost-Athlone/Lansdowne E-edition 30 September 2025

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Sexual violence within the schools and educational facilities in the Manenberg Policing Precinct has been alarming Not only is there an increase in teenage pregnancies at high schools, but learners at primary schools are playing sexual games.

This is how Capt Ian Bennett, spokesperson for Manenberg police, expresses his concern about these disturbing trends that threaten the safety and well-being of the children of Manenberg

“On a daily basis residents have to cope with gang violence, abuse of all kinds and drug dealing and now under-age children are the

g y g young girls are under age and this constitutes statutory rape

“The silence of parents enables abuse, but justice starts with action The fact that children play sexual games at primary school level is also a concern and criminal We want to remind the community that as young as these perpetrators are they could find themselves in conflict with the law It is a criminal offence that (teachers) and adults share explicit sexual content with children,” he says Bennett also mentions the use of any form of corporal punishment on any child is also a serious criminal offence

“Teachers should refrain from these actions Not even parents are allowed to touch or use

p

grammes at all the educational institutions within the Manenberg Policing Precinct,”

Bennet says

He is adamant that educational facilities will not become a hunting ground for sexual perpetrators

“These young people are placed in our care and we should ensure their safety Criminal action against our young people will not be tolerated

“Individuals, including young under-age boys that use the sexual violence as right of passage and see it fit to violate any of our children, will find themselves on the wrong side of the law,”

Bennett says

Another concerning trend is the opening of

false cases of theft and robberry of cellphones

“Youth are making cases of robberies of cellphones and when initial information is followed up, it is found that the incident never happened

This is criminal and community members are being charged with perjury

“This practice should stop immediately as it affects your future when applying for jobs

Your criminal record will show your dishonesty

Young people and community members criminalise themselves when they make false cases, ” Bennett says .Anyone with information can call Manenberg Police Station on 021 699 9400 or Crime Stop 0860010111

Alterationstirsdiscourse

NAMHLAMONAKALI

The amendment of the Intestate Succession Act earlier this month has not only stirred legal discussions but has also revived deeper questions about memory, heritage, and lineage

The modification, which updates the current Intestate Succession Act of 1987, the primary piece of legislation that governs how estates are distributed when someone dies without a valid will, seeks to close long-standing gaps in inheritance law that historically left women and children vulnerable Parliament’s move aligns inheritance rights with constitutional principles of equality But in the heart of Cape Town, where the scars of forced removals

still shape daily life, the new law is being interpreted through a different lens: heritage

For the District Six Museum, inheritance is more than a matter of property or assets It is about the preservation of memory, the recognition of belonging, and the safeguarding of cultural traditions that were deliberately fractured by apartheid-era laws

“In District Six, dispossession meant that families were not only stripped of their homes but of their lineage,” said Chrischene Julius, director of the District Six Museum “Inheritance here is not just about wills and succession It is about who inherits the right to tell our stories, who gets to preserve the memory of a place once erased from the map, and how those traditions live on in our children ”

ITISABOUTWHO INHERITSTHERIGHT TOTELLOURSTORIES

The Museum has spent decades collecting oral histories and artefacts that keep alive the memory of families uprooted during the Group Areas Act

According to curators, the debate over inheritance laws today resonates with this painful history because it raises questions about whose memory is valued and how families can claim back not just assets but cultural dignity

Cultural activist Solomzi Nyezi echoed this view, noting that inheritance systems are deeply tied to identity

“Heritage lives in our names, in our practices, and in how we pass down traditions When the law changes, it reshapes the ways families think about lineage and custodianship of memory, ” he said The Women’s Legal Centre Trust, meanwhile, has welcomed the law as a necessary protection for vulnerable groups but warns that without awareness campaigns, its impact may be limited “Communities must be educated about their rights if they are to claim them Otherwise, the promise of the law remains only on paper, ” the Centre noted In District Six and across the challenge remains how to ensure that the law not only protects property but also strengthens the inheritance of memory, tradition, and cultural identity

ThousandsofmenexpectedatMightyMen

For the first time in Cape Town’s history, 30 000 men will gather on Saturday 1 November at Athlone Stadium for a free Mighty Men event This historic moment is a direct response to decades of gang violence and brokenness on the Cape Flats - and a collective statement that enough is enough

On Friday morning 19 September, approximately 200 church and community leaders gathered in Athlone to prepare for this milestone event The Mighty Men Cape Flats event, which is free to attend, aims to bring together men from across Cape Town and South Africa to reclaim their communities and restore hope and healing

The movement forms part of Radio Tygerberg 104FM’ s “Healing the City” initiative, launched last year after a report in a local newspaper highlighted that 121 people had died in just two weeks due to gang violence - a tragedy that no longer

even made front-page news

“We simply could not remain silent any longer The loss of life and pain on the Cape Flats deeply moved us This Mighty Men Cape Flats event is a response to the cry of the community,” said Hardus Zevenster, chief executive of the Bloudruk Group, of which Radio Tygerberg is a part

Speakers announced at Friday’s event include inspirational men who themselves grew up in gang-ridden areas

Well-known author, singer, and media personality Johnny Davids, and Ivor Swartz, also an author and now a pastor, will be among the speakers

The keynote speaker is world-renowned evangelist Angus Buchan, who last spoke in Mitchells Plain in 2018 Although he no longer travels or speaks as frequently, he felt called to be part of this event

“I truly believe that the men of

Cape Town have the potential to lead their families and communities toward healing and restoration This movement reminds men of their God-given purpose, ” explained Buchan

Music will also play a central role at the gathering

Neville D - breakfast show host on Radio Tygerberg and Grammy-nominated artist - will lead the music programme on the day, accompanied by a band and an impressive 100-man choir

A movement of hope and transformation, The Mighty Men Cape Flats gathering is the result of requests from church and community leaders working with Radio Tygerberg to find practical solutions for the community

Other community radio stations are also helping to mobilise for the event “Life on the Cape Flats is relentless The violence, the loss of life, the trauma that unfolds daily

devastates families and our community,” said Pastor Theo Roman of the Open Assemblies of God

He adds: “We believe and pray that this gathering will equip men to rediscover their roles as leaders, fathers, and role models, so that healthy families and stronger communities can grow ”

The event starts at 14:00 and ends at 20:00

Gates open at midday Although free, booking is through itickets co za

The lost art of listening and caring

human cruelty is an indestructible weed that keeps growing and returning as the centuries pass

on our cellphones, ranging from assassinations, attacks and heated arguments

“The purpose of propaganda is to make one set of people forget that the other sets of people are human ’’

These few words from the late author Aldoux Huxely are a simple mantra when it comes to understanding the dangers that ideologies on race, religion, gender and politics, can cause violent and catastrophic results for our society History constantly shows us how cruel and senseless the World Wars were, the thousands of innocent lives, lands and precious parts of ancient history and culture lost through colonisation and the after-effects we still feel today The horrors of the Holocaust, American slavery and apartheid have become petrifying and painful reminders for the youth and the old who remember what life was like in these eras Now the younger generations can only imagine and gasp at the inhumanity of the Nazi’s and slave owners who dedicated their lives to terrifying another human being with whip lashes and death when they see artefacts of oppression such as gas chambers and the photograph of Hector Petersen when visiting history museums However, it seems this thirst for

The 1800’s can appear so barbaric and heartless when one thinks of the limited freedoms afforded women, the fact that they couldn’t vote and were told to enjoy being housewives Yet we see gender based violence and harrasment still terrorising our women of today in homes, shopping malls and work offices

Now it appears eerily evident that there’s a cloud of cynicism and hostility hovering and brewing above our ever-evolving society in 2025 I recall in the mid two thousands, ‘‘trolling” was seen as a juvenile and loathsome act linked to cyberbullying and now it seems every second person is anonymously poking fun at someone online and saying their “ new song is trash” These days it seems there’s so much contempt spreading on social media and bleeding into our social circles when it comes to opinions being shared on religion, gender, policies, climate change, wars and the list goes on

The irony is that this kind of content brews hatred and can be triggering for some but the algorithms could care less how much harm and cyberbullying is being caused as it’s increasing traction and clicks for their platforms With the swipe of a finger violent content is more easily shared than ever

As we all know money talks, and why would the safety regulators on social media care if the youth or emotionally vulnerable are witnessing this disturbing videos when it boosts their profit and skyrockets the number of users downloading their apps?

Often we see parents handing their children tablets to keep them entertained with some already having their own YouTube accounts and subscriptions Hopefully their profiles are on a restricted mode seeing how unfiltered and graphic content have become recently Attention spans are already endangered the more we absorb bite-sized reels and doom-scroll the nights away and numb our emotions Content creators are also feeding their audiences their ideologies, creating an endless stream of likes, shares and subscribers The more the messages resonates with them, the more they wish to share this, connect with similarly minded individuals who can join their causes and “fight the enemy ’’ Our society is more divided than ever during Donald Trump’s presidency with the Republicans and Democrats increasingly villifying and mocking each other online, in the news and even during family and friend debates at home It’s become impossible to avoid loud

and passionate arguments when the state of Palestine and war on Gaza has entered the conversation, with seemingly people preferring to argue their differing points on the issue instead of finding some common ground and understanding with one another The fact that women, children and fathers are being killed should bear the most prominence Instead we find people argueing it’s the “collateral damage” You also keep hearing about the radical right or left wing parties that are being categorised as terrorists who are a threat to our communities, young generations and could influence and “propogate” their philosophies to the world Each opposing thought group says the other is spreading false information instead of trying to see themselves in each other and trying to have a healthy and wholesome dialogue without demonising but rather understanding I fear that the more we misunderstand each other, the more we push each other away, making the act of conversation as risky and dangerous as walking on ice

The Bible says: “Love thy neighbour” irrespective of race, religion and gender, three ancient words that should remind us to choose empathy and approach each other with grace, dignity and respect Hopefully we can see a reflection of ourselves and instead of an “ enemy ”

Walkabout squares up to gangs

AVRILFILLIES

Brig Jayce Naidoo, Station Commander of Manenberg police, led a community walkabout on Friday 12 September as part of his strategy to “change the face of Manenberg”

“This is a proactive and deeply personal commitment from my side to combat rampant gang violence in Manenberg and is the reason why I took my management to the streets to establish community safety,” he says Flanked by his Vispol Commander, Vispol support team, sector managers, the reserve core members, members of the community policing forum, police officers and members of the neighbourhood watch, he took to the streets to engage directly with residents and hear their concerns firsthand

“This walkabout is a cornerstone of my strategy to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community, which has often created a misperception, blaming a lack of policing resources I believe we can make a difference with the limited resources by starting with the managing of the crime prevention perception We cannot stand by and watch our youth die every weekend, with innocent lives being lost where people are caught in crossfire,” he says The community often blames the lack of policing resources, so Manenberg police is taking to the streets to get a better understanding of why so much blood has been spilled on these roads

“Unfortunately the streets cannot tell their tales of the blood spilled and murder of people

The walkabout through the heart of Manenberg, a community long plagued by gang violence was not merely to patrol the area but to engage in one-on-one conversations, listening to the cries of mothers and the frustrations of families who lost loved ones, ” Naidoo says He adds that this walkabout and speaking to residents is a critical step in a broader effort to shift shift the community’s mindset

“The freedom of our streets has been paid in blood, but the blood spilled is through the cowardly acts of gangs This visible and hands-on approach aims to build trust and gather crucial intelligence that can bring about a more focused approach in combating crime, with effective crime prevention strategies,” he says By walking beside his crime prevention team, Naidoo hopes to demonstrate commitment to

Jointinitiativereapstherewards

Cross-border, integrated operational deployment between Manenberg police and Mitchells Plain police proved successful as the seasoned detectives of the serious violent crimes unit of Manenberg police brought perpetrators to book They worked tirelessly leaving nothing to chance but their experience and detective skills, to bring perpetrators to book making significant strides in making our communities safer “Gang groupings and their illegal activity remain a rooted concern and crime generator within the policing precinct Manenberg police and their crime fighting partners are committed to clamping down on gangs taking control of turf and we are taking back our streets,” says Capt Ian Bennett, spokesperson for Manenberg police

On Monday 22 September, a 15-year-old boy was arrested for being in possession of an unlicenced 9mm pistol and 15 rounds

Metro Police deployment doing high density patrols within the hotspot area spotted the boy on a bicycle When he saw members of law enforcement he tried cycling faster in and effort to evade arrest

They cornered him as he ran into an address in Gouritz Street

They found the 9mm pistol loaded with 15 rounds in his possession

“This incident shows and proves how coward gangs behave when exploiting children in a bid to take over gang territory,” says Bennett

In an unrelated incident, Mitchells Plain police arrested a 51-year-old male suspect who has been on the run, following the fatal stabbing of his friend in Manenberg

The incident occurred in Ruimte Road, where it is alleged that a dispute over a flash drive escalated into a violent confrontation

According to preliminary reports, the suspect had lost a flash drive in the area, which was later picked up by the victim

It is alleged that the suspect became enraged when the flash drive was not returned promptly, resulting in the victim being fatally stabbed

Following the incident, the suspect fled both the crime scene and the broader Manenberg area, seeking refuge in Mitchells Plain

On Tuesday 23 September, thanks to swift coordination between the Manenberg police Vispol Commander and counterparts in Mitchells Plain, the suspect’s location was verified

Within minutes of receiving the tip-off, officers

effected the arrest

In another incident, a 24-year-old was arrested for robbery and murder after evading the arm of the law for a month It is alleged that he and a friend were busy robbing a delivery vehicle when they were caught redhanded

A patrolling police vehicle noticed suspicious behaviour when approaching the delivery vehicle standing next to the road The officers stopped and got out and apprehended the two males while they were robbing the delivery man of his goods

The 24-year-old male gave a false name but he was soon caught out as detectives interviewing them recognised him as the outstanding wanted person in the murder of the previous month

.Anyone with information regarding any criminal gang activity can contact Manenberg police on 021 699 9400 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

Firearms seized in two cases

Two males aged 32 and 52 years were arrested on Wednesday 17 September in two separate incidents for possession of unlicenced firearms and ammunition Officers of the anti-gang unit flooded the area doing density patrols and searching targeted hotspot areas within Manenberg Increased stop and searches paid off as a 32-yearold male was arrested at 18:15 in Scheldt Way with a 9mm Glock pistol with a 9mm round

The 52-year-old was arrested at 21:55 in Zahra Close with a 9mm pistol with 22 rounds in his possession Keeping the Manenberg Policing Precinct in a tight grip, these focused intelligence driven operations will continue, says Capt Ian Bennett, spokesperson for Manenberg police The firearms

the safety and well-being of every community member in Manenberg

“Manenberg police want to grow stronger community safety structures, through increasing the membership of our NHWs, our police officers and ultimately the reserve core I applaud the community for their commitment in helping to change the face of Manenberg," Naidoo says

TAKING TO THE STREETS TO GET A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF WHY SO MUCH BLOOD HAS BEEN SPILLED

Appeal for public funding

AVRILFILLIES

Atotal of 50 participants from The Haven Shelters will take part in a unique 60-minute ballroom dance production Dignity in Motion in three shows on Monday 10 November at 18:00 and Tuesday 11 November at 11:00 and 18:00 in the Star Theatre in Buitenkant Street, Cape Town

“This is a first and an extraordinary event, as the performance follows a powerful emotional journey of healing through dance - from displacement and despair to rediscover and belonging, ending in a triumphant finale of unity, hope and dignity restored,” says Jaco Maree, director of the production Over the past five months, these individuals have poured their hearts into learning and rehearsing, using ballroom dance as a tool for healing, expression and transformation They will step onto a professional stage and showcase their journey to the world

THE TRANSFORMATION IN OUR PARTICIPANTS WAS INSPIRING

Each scene uses ballroom dance as a metaphor for life stages and emotion: loneliness, connection, struggle, trust and finally collective resilience

The production is directed by Maree and choreographed by Alvina Menigo Maree has over 23 years of experience using performing arts as a medium for development and therapy, and Menigo has dedicated her passion and skill to this work To both of them this is more than a performance - it is a movement of hope

“We were fortunate to secure a beautiful theatre that offers our participants more than just a stage - it gives them dignity, recognition and an unforgettable platform But we need help

to bring this vision fully to life We are seeking support to cover the cost of costumes so every dancer looks and feels their best, and makeup to complete the transformation on stage,” Maree says

A total of 275 seats per show are available and tickets can be bought online at Quicket at R100 each or at the door

“To see the transformation in our participants has been nothing short of inspiring Through ballroom dance they have gained confidence and self-worth, built discipline, teamwork and trust, found a creative outlet for healing and expression and experienced the joy of achieving something remarkable together This is more than a show, it is a statement of human dignity restored,” says Shadrick Valayadum, CEO of The Haven Shelter

For more information or donations contact Maree on 072 759 4939 or email Jaco@haven org za and Valayadum on 082 381 0384 or email shaddie@haven org za

Moreclergyjoincrimepreventioninitiative

AVRILFILLIES

Another prayer march was held at the AFM church on Third Avenue in Bokmakierie on Sunday 28 September to pray for peace and an end to gang violence in the community, with more clery vowing to join the Athlone Police spiritual crime prevention unit

Rev Mike Williams from the Anglican Catholic Church in Athlone says he was surprised at the response after the initial prayer (“Pastors pray for police” People’s Post, 9 September)

“The Bridgetown Forum and the CPF shared since the two organisations started working together in

Bridgetown that crime in the area decreased This shows that together we can make a difference if we are united in one mission, as with the current violence in our communities,”

he says

The shooting incident took place on Friday 7 September and within 24 hours the prayer vigil was held

Some people thought that the prayer vigil would not work because it was so hastily organised, to everyone ’ s surprise many religious leaders turned up

“We strongly recommend the bigger churches to join us to come together

to make a difference in our communities If you, as the minister, cannot attend the Spiritual Crime Prevention Forum, send a delegate to be informed of our different activities at the Forum and get involved This is the same plea I sent out when I was interviewed by Heart 104 9 after the shooting

“There are many good people who want to change the face of the society or community they live in by helping to rid the communities of the social ills

“I also want to appeal to parents to pimp their children if they are mis-

Power outages

Residents of Crawford and Lansdowne are advised of critical electricity supply interruptions to allow for essential infrastructure maintenance next month Work will take place from 08:30 to 16:30 on the specified dates The electricity supply could, however, be restored at any time Residents are therefore urged to treat all electrical installations as live for the full duration of the planned maintenance

On Thursday 2 October, areas in Lansdowne supplied by the Holderness Road and Woodbury Road substations will be affected On Thursday 9 October, Denham Road, Smuts Road and the Garnet Road substations will be affected On Thursday 16 October, Kenwood Road Mansfield Road and the Addison Road substations will be affected On Thursday 23 October, Bankot Road and the Walnut Road substations will be affected On Thursday 30 October, areas in Crawford supplied by the Bridgeway substation, Raglan Avenue and Adula Road substations will be affected Residents should switch off appliances to prevent damage from power surges This work is to ensure a reliable electricity supply Contact the City’s call centre on 0860 103 089 The City apologises for the inconvenience

chievous and doing wrong things

“I also want to appeal to all to show the gangsters that there is unity in strength if we all stand together against gangsterism and violence They are in the minority and are holding our communities to ransom, ” Williams says “Guns are so easily available and not always to commit murders or wounding someone

“I had to bury a 27-year-old man on Saturday 20 September after he committed suicide using a gun I ask the religious leaders to get involved,” he says

Stonesusedto recruitforgangs

Stone-throwing by youth and learners from Manenberg is being used to recruit young people to join gangs This is not only unlawful but can impact the path the youth take. This is not the only concern of Manenberg police as the community of Manenberg is taking the law into their own hands by settling disputes with assaulting or stabbing each other, as well

“This tendency came to light after a 38-yearold male was fatally stabbed on Sunday 14 September It is alleged that an argument broke out between two males, resulting in the fatal stabbing of the 38-year-old victim He succumbed to his injuries on the scene and the suspect fled and is yet to be arrested A case of murder has been opened for investigation,” says Capt Ian Bennett, spokesperson for Manenberg police

He said it has become concerning that the community is using deadly force to settle disputes and this tendency has spilled over to the youth and learners in the area

“This contributes to the escalation in crime, such as assaults, assaults with intent to do grievous bodily harm, which leads to murder I

THE COMMUNITY IS USING DEADLY FORCE TO SETTLE DISPUTES

am of the opinion that the community’s ability to deal with conflict needs to be addressed Manenberg police will contact the necessary role players to assist us to communicate to the community how to deal with conflict through talking and not just brutal violence

“The stone-throwing amongst learners is seen as violent behaviour used as a method by gangs as part of their gang recruitment processes This violent behaviour is criminal and people wanting to join gangs through stone-throwing are compromising themselves and their careers when becoming involved in this type of behaviour,” he says Bennett and Manenberg police call upon all community leaders to address moral regeneration within the Manenberg Policing Precinct

. Anyone with information can contact Manenberg police on 021 699 9400 or Crime Stop on 0860010111

Crèchebadlydamagedinfire needshelptorebuild

KEANANHARMSE

KEANAN HARMSE@NOVUSMED A CO ZA

A crèche in Hanover Park is appealing for public assistance after a large part of its premises was damaged in a fire last week

On Monday morning, 22 September, the Steers Educare was engulfed in flames

The cause of the fire is unknown

The City of Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue Department receieved a call at 01:05 reporting a dwelling alight at Surdown Walk in Pinate Estate

“Upon arrival, responding crews found a dwelling used as an Educare Centre had caught alight The fire was extinguished prior to the arrival of the brigade Firefighters attended to smouldering areas and made the area safe , “ said spokesperson Edward Bosch

School administrator Matthew Martin said furniture, learning materials and other essential equipment and tools were destroyed as were much of the classrooms

“Two rooms were severely damaged by fire – a bedroom, along with a room used as the classroom, ” Bosch added

The rest of the building sustained partial damage due to smoke and heat

“Without Steers Educare these children are left vulnerable, missing out on both education and the daily protection the centre offers,” he said “What once stood as a safe place for learning, play and nourishment has now virtually

been reduced to ashes ” He urged the public to help rebuild the facility and help the children “We are determined to rebuild, but we cannot do it alone,” Martin said “Our most pressing need right now is for building materials to restore the educare facility and make it safe for the children once again Every brick, every piece of wood every sheet of roofing will help bring us closer to reopening our doors ”

The school had not yet received any donations or monetary contributions for urgent repairs and replacement of to the facility

School principal Avril Martin also could not confirm where or how the learners were being taught in the absence of proper premises

People's Post reached out to the City of Cape Town's Fire and Rescue Department for comment, but they could not provide a response at the time of going to print . For more information or to contribute contact Martin on 083 530 9229

Rescuefacilitystrugglestokeeplightsburning

The Hout Bay Seal Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (HBSRC) says its future and the lives of countless seal pups hang in the balance as the facility enters its eighth month without electricity

Despite repeated appeals to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) and the City of Cape Town, the Centre remains disconnected from the grid

A chain of emails seen by the People’s Post between the Centre and various government departments paints a grim image of frustration from the facility management Since July this year, the Centre has tried in vain to get assistance from the government

The situation raises urgent questions about government accountability ahead of the October seal pup season

“Every year, dozens of orphaned seal pups are rescued from our coastline They need constant warmth from heaters and infrared lamps to

survive, but without electricity, we cannot provide it,” said Ilana Nel, a volunteer and the Centre’s director of PR “We are days away from pup season If nothing changes, we face the heartbreaking reality of being unable to save them This week alone, we have already lost three pups ”

Since February this year, the Centre has relied on generators, gas, and community donations to keep operations running

Volunteers say funds meant for food, veterinary care, and rehabilitation are instead being spent on fuel

Local residents and businesses have stepped in, covering the cost of prepaid meters and donating bedding and jackets during the cold winter months, but Nel warns that this is not sustainable “We cannot run a facility of this nature on makeshift power forever It places both the animals and our team at risk,” she said

The Centre continues to receive monthly rental invoices despite lacking essential services

Nel argues that charging rent under these conditions is unfair and potentially unlawful, citing the Rental Housing Act, which obliges landlords to maintain leased property fit for its intended purpose

Volunteers have allegedly written repeatedly to DPWI, Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, Western Cape Premier Alan Winde, Ward councillor Roberto Quintas, and Public Works Minister Dean MacPherson, but responses have been limited HBSRC plays a vital ecological and community role in Hout Bay, one of Cape Town’s busiest harbours

The Centre rescues Cape fur seals injured in fishing gear or abandoned as orphaned pups and runs outreach programmes teaching local children about marine conservation Without electricity, both animal welfare and years of community work are at risk

“Donor money, community goodwill, and years of outreach are being wasted because basic services are not provided Unless urgent steps

are taken, we may be forced to close our doors,” Nel warned “The cost of government inaction will not only be measured in wasted resources, but in the lives of the animals we exist to save ” In response to queries from People’s Post, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure confirmed that a contractor has been appointed to arrange the connection of electricity supply and install prepaid wall meter-

ing “All the necessary work has been undertaken, and full restoration will be completed in approximately seven days,” the department said Belinda Abraham, communications manager for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, said: “It is always distressing to learn of the challenges faced by other organisations in the sector ” Reports of seals in distress can be made by calling 0217004158/9 any time of the day or night

Orpheus McAdoo at Artscape

Following its acclaimed premiere in October last year Orpheus McAdoo returns to Artscape Theatre from Tuesday 21 October to Sunday 2 November.

Written and directed by South African theatre legend David Kramer, this stirring musical celebrates the true story of Orpheus McAdoo and his Virginia Jubilee Singers, a choir of African-American performers who toured South Africa in the 1890s and took the Cape by storm At the centre of this moving production is Conroy Scott in the title role A distinguished Cape Town Opera House Soloist, Scott brings vocal gravitas and deep emotional resonance to the role of McAdoo, a visionary who faced the complexities of race, performance and identity while introducing South African audiences to American spirituals and jubilee singing for the first time

Scott is joined by Cape Town Opera (CTO) House Soloist Brittany Smith as Mattie Allen and a cast that uniquely blends opera singers and stage actors, creating a musical texture that is both theatrically rich and vocally thrilling With its evocative mix of old spirituals, ragtime, early American folk and South African musical influences, Orpheus McAdoo gives audiences a sonic and emotional journey through a little-known but powerful chapter of Cape Town’s past Kramer’s script and original compositions are layered with authenticity and compassion, weaving together true history with artistic imagination The inclusion of traditional spirituals gives the show its beating heart songs once sung in bondage now lifted in concert halls across continents

The story follows McAdoo and his wife Mattie as they navigate love, ambition, cultural collision and the pressure of being Black performers in colonial-era South Africa

As their jubilee choir travels the country, they encounter fame, admiration and controversy Kramer’s work sensitively explores the fine line between performance and identity and

Helpmayor‘WeartheHope’ festivaltopthissummer

Do you consider yourself Cape Town’s next top fashion designer, designing items for public figures?

Then the City of Cape Town’s new challenge to design and make the mayor ’ s annual festive-wear top might just be the thing for you

This year, the Festive Lights Switch-On adds a new layer of creativity and community spirit with the launch of the Mayor’s Festive-wear Challenge 2025 - under the banner Wear the Hope – Share the Light

For the past three years, Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has kicked off the festive season in a different Christmas-themed jersey for the annual Festive Lights Switch-On This year, that tradition evolves into something with a bit of fun for the whole city: a public design competition inviting all Capetonians - from young designers and fashion students to sewing clubs, schools, elders, and crafters - to create a fun festive-wear top (a jersey, pullover, shirt etc)

The winning creation will make its first public appearance, together with its creator at the testing of the City’s Festive Lights on Tuesday 11 November, before being worn by the mayor at the official Festive Lights Switch-On concert in front of about 80 000 Capetonians

“The Festive Lights Switch-On is about more than switching on the bulbs - it’s about shining a light on Cape Town’s creativity, joy and hope This year, through the ‘Wear the Hope - Share the Light’ challenge, I’m inviting every Capetonian to help usher in some festive fun I can’t wait to wear the winning creation and showcase the talent of our people on stage,” says Hill-Lewis

Participants have until Monday 6 October to enter

HOWTOENTER:

Submit a design sketch or concept description

(PDF or photo) with a short write-up (max 300 words) explaining the inspiration, use of sustainable materials (if using), and the story behind the design

Entries must be emailed with the subject line:

Wear the Hope Challenge 2025

Include your full name, contact details (mobile phone and email address), your location in Cape Town, and group/organisation name if applicable

Email to: wearhope@capetownfestivelights

co za

Judges will review entries and select finalists based on creativity, sustainability, theme interpretation, and craftsmanship

Judging criteria includes creativity and originality – festive in a fresh, unexpected way Theme interpretation – a strong symbolic/visual expression of hope and unity

There will also be points for use of sustainable or upcycled materials, as well as craftsmanship and presentation that looks at the creation’s wearability, construction, and stage presence

Of equal importance is the story behind the stitches and the community spirit

Creative hint: The winning creation should visually shine under stage lights and reflect Cape Town’s vibrancy – joyful, hopeful, bold, and dignified

THEWINNER’SPRIZE:

The competitions is about honour, recognition, and community pride The winner of the Wear the Hope - Share the Light challenge will:

. Have their creation worn by the mayor at this year ’ s Festive Lights Switch-On, test drive and the main stage event to be witnessed by thousands;

. be invited on stage with the mayor to help shine the lights;

. receive a professional photo shoot of the creation and the winning entrant(s);

. Have a community donation of creative material up to the value of R5 000 made in their name to a local sewing/knitting group, school, or creative hub

Production of the design is for the entrant’s

own account

. Submission details available at https://www capetown gov za/general/festivelights-switch-on

KRAMER’S SCRIPT AND COMPOSITIONS ARE LAYERED WITH AUTHENTICITY AND COMPASSION,WEAVING TOGETHER TRUE HISTORY WITH ARTISTIC IMAGINATION

Rocking4Cancer hosts a ‘Masquerade’ celebration

Founded in 2013, Rocking4Cancer has grown into an iconic annual event, raising funds and awareness for cancer-related causes and other vital organisations

This year ’ s milestone 10th show will be hosted at West End Superclub, Athlone, on Friday 3 October at 20:00 and Saturday 4 at noon, with proceeds going to St Joseph Home for Children, which is celebrating 90 years of service

Themed “Masquerade”, this year ’ s event will feature performances by a wide range of local artists, including Dr Jules, Berry Trytsman, Daylin Sass, Novocaine, Sade Von S, Tiana, Zoë Avontuur, B12 Boy Band, and DJ Hielin

The first 100 patrons will receive complimentary goodie bags, and there will be a few additional surprises on the night

St Joseph’s provides medical, emotional, and spiritual support to children with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions, from birth to age 17

CEO Christelle Cornelius says the support from Rocking4Cancer will help them continue

offering specialised care to young patients and their families

One example is a young girl known as Angel, who arrived at the facility in 2021 with complex medical needs, including a feeding tube and tracheostomy Through consistent therapy, including hydrotherapy to encourage speech, she has made steady progress now eating on her own and beginning to speak in short sentences

In the baby ward, children with severe conditions receive palliative care in a calm and supportive environment Families facing uncertain futures are offered counselling and guidance by the clinical and social work teams

Some children arrive severely underweight and weak but gradually regain strength through the centre’s multidisciplinary approach

Over the years, Rocking4Cancer has supported several organisations including St Luke’s Hospice, CHOC, The Sunflower Fund, Love Your Nuts, and the Breast Care Foundation . Tickets are R100 via Quicket,or R150 at the door

DuetstarslightupArtscape

Artscape Theatre will come alive with worldclass voices and orchestral brilliance on Saturday 4 October at 18:00, as the Duet Endowment Trust Gala Concert brings together top South African talent for one unmissable evening

Presented by Cape Town Opera and the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, the concert features internationally acclaimed soprano Golda Schultz and celebrated baritone Jacques Imbrailo, performing a rich selection of opera favourites and symphonic works

Born in Cape Town and now a global opera star, Schultz has performed at the likes of La Scala and the Met She returns home to sing arias from Faust, Don Giovanni, and The Rake’s Progress Imbrailo, known for his expressive voice and commanding stage presence, will present

excerpts from Eugene Onegin, Billy Budd, and Don Carlo The orchestra will be led by Gaetano Lo Coco Also taking the stage are Cape Town Opera’s House Soloists, Judith Neilson Young Artists, Vocal Ensemble and Children’s Chorus Audiences can expect highlights from Carmen, Rigoletto, Così fan tutte, Roméo et Juliette, and La traviata, plus ensemble works including Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin Waltz and van Dijk’s The Selfish Giant The Duet Endowment Trust, founded by Wendy Ackerman, supports Cape Town Opera and the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, ensuring a strong future for classical music Tickets range from R250 to R950 Book

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Edward Jack beat an experienced field of club runners to win the Nantes AC 10 km fast and flat race in a time of 30 min 29 seconds during a WPA League Race on Wednesday 24 September. The club’s annual Heritage race drew a record crowd of 2200 participants and offered distances of a 10 km run and walk, including a 5 km fun run through the streets of Bridgetown and Silvertown

Blind cricketers to slug it out

Ten teams will take part in the inaugural T20 Blind Cricket National Tournament from Monday 6 to Friday 9 October at Maties Cricket Club in Stellenbosch.

The teams are the hosts Boland, Dolphins, Dragons, Eastern Cape, Free State, Inyathi, Limpopo, Lions, Titans and Western Province

“Maties has previously hosted the 40-over national tournament in 2000 and to make the tournament a success we need assistance with catering and refreshments for all participants

We specifically need funds to contribute towards breakfasts, lunches and suppers for 240 people, as well as for 260 people who will attend the final lunch

The refreshments include water and energy drinks for all participants, consisting of players, officials and volunteers,” says Frankford Williams, president of Blind Cricket South Africa Teams will be residing at the Athlone School for the Blind in Bellville

South and will travel daily to Stellenbosch

“The Dolphins from KZN are the defending champions and won the last tournament in April/May 2024 in Potchefstroom The Lions are the most successful team, having won the tournament four times,” says Williams

The costs for Boland and Western Province is between R30 000 and R50 000, which includes transport and attire For up-country teams, the costs range from R60 000 for transport up to over R100 000 if they fly, purchase apparel, and hire a bus in Cape Town

“Besides the tournament we are looking for partners to assist us financially or with goods and services to prepare our team for the 2027 T20World Cup in Lahore and Multan in Pakistan We would also be grateful for any decent, no-longerused cricket equipment that can be shared among our players, as most of

Topcricketershonoured

With the new domestic cricket season on its way and the auction of the franchises something of the past, Western Province Cricket Association (WPCA) honoured the winners at the annual Awards Ceremony at Newlands Cricket Ground on Wednesday 3 September after a successful 2024-'25 season for both men and women

Rory Kleinveldt was appointed as the new head coach of WP Men after Salieg Nackerdien was appointed as coach of the Tanzania T20 squad Claire Terblanche, the successful Women’s coach, was appointed to the Proteas management team of the Proteas Women’s team for the ICC Cricket World Cup in India and Sri Lanka

The tournament gets underway today (30 September) and will continue until Sunday 2 November

The Women’s team had a successful season keeping their Pro20 title and finishing second in the Pro50

The men finished fourth in the CSA T20 Challenge with opener Eddie Moore becoming the top scorer with 328 runs

Kyle Simmonds, left-arm spinner, took 25 wickets in four matches and helped WP to finish fifth in the CSA 4-day Series

Kayla Reyneke and all-rounder

George Linde each won two and three awards respectively

Reyneke received awards as Women ’ s Young Player of the Year and Women’s T20 Player of the Year, while Linde claimed the Men’s Player of the Year, the Men’s 4-Day Player of the Year and the WP Player’s Player of the Year

Known for his big hits during the season, Moore was named the WP Men’s T20 Player of the Year while Simmonds received the Men’s 50Over Player of the Year award

Faye Tunnicliffe won the WP Women ’ s 2-Day Cup Player of the Year, while captain Leah Jones took home the WP Women’s Player of the Year and Players Player of the Year

CEO Corrie van Zyl congratulated the winners He said the awards are a fitting tribute to a season of tremendous effort and achievement across the entire cricketing community “Celebrating our amateur club stars on Saturday 30 August and our professionals showcases the vibrant health of WP Cricket I congratulate every winner and thank all players, coaches and staff for their dedication,” he says

WPCA President, Johannes Adams said the awards highlight the depth of passion for the game in Western Province “We are not just building winning teams but also nurturing the future of SA cricket,” he says

them currently have to share We also believe it is important to offer prizes, such as cash or goods, for the Man of the Match Awards Players also appreciate a trophy to remember the achievements during the tournament, as most of them come from a poor background are unemployed or in a low-income job and often depend on social grants Tangible prizes like a new bag, bat, gloves or a pair of trainers/spikes would make a significant difference in their ability to play the game

“For many, cricket is more than just a sport, it is an outlet and a place where they feel a sense of purpose and belonging, which they may not find in other parts of their lives At the conclusion of the tournament, a 30-35 man squad will be announced, and this team will be the focus of our preparations for the 2027 T20 World Cup,” he says

For more information or sponsorship you can contact Williams on 083 715 7546 or email president@blindcricketsa co za and Ernest Nyatela on 061 997 5864 or email coordinator@ blindcricketsa co za

The Exco of the Blind Cricket SA are: Frankford Williams (president), Isaac Bidla (Vice-president), Lazola Daniels (secretary), Gift Zungu (treasurer) and Ernest Nyatela (national coordinator)