Die nuus en foto's van die naweek se verrigtinge is ook op hul sosialemediablad gedeel.
“Deur die slegte en goeie tye, het die klubnog altyd sterkgestaan as gevolg van die mense wat dit steun. Dankie aan
LEAP AREAS DROPPEDIN MURDER RATE
Western Cape are gang -related.”
Firearms remained the leading weapon in murders, used in 644 killings and 713 attempted murders during the reporting period. Precincts including Mfuleni, Nyanga, Delft and Gugulethu continue to feature prominently on the national top 15 murder stations list.
However, areas with Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (LEAP)deployments showed greater improvement,with murders decreasing 3,7% from 323 to 311 cases. Delft recorded a19,4% decrease, Gugulethu 13,3%, and Mitchells Plain achieved a22% reduction.
“This clearly indicates that additional boots on the ground, integrated deployments and focused operations do make ameasurable difference,” Marais said. “It confirms what we have long maintained: resource allocation matters. Visible policing matters.”
elke ondersteuner, afrigter, speler en vriend van die klub wat gekom het om die mylpaal saam met ons te vier.
“Ons toekoms lyk goed. Onsisdaaraan toegewy om ‘n klub te bou wat inklusief is, almal welkom laat voel en ‘n ware tuiste te wees vir almal wat by die hek instap,”lui ‘n inskrywing op sosiale media.
Johan Lloyd (president),Arthur Reichhardt (middel) en Gert Rademan (voorsitter vandie Goodwoodrugbyklub) is hier met die oorhandiging van‘n spesialeaandenkingsgeskenk aan Rademan.
Carlos da Costa(voor),kapteinvan die eerste span,vang diebal in diewedstryd op Saterdag 7Maart.
Die NTK-rugbyklubseeerste span het die wedstryd met 44-22 gewen.
Kevin Kiewits,president vanWPRFU
AndréWuister,spanlid,in aksie in diewedstryd teen Goodwood.
Filmgradbrings storyhome
An Italian filmmaker, who spent his formativeyears in Cape Town, has graduatedwith top honours from film schoolinRome and plans to returnto South Africa to createamovie abouthis missionary upbringing.
Tommaso Furgione, born in Rome, moved to South Africa at agesix when his family beganmissionary work. He lived in Goodwood and attended Labiance Pre and Primary School before moving onto CBC St John’s, Parklands High School.
The 22-year-old recently earned his degree summa cumlaudein Film Directingand Production at the Digital Arts and Media Academy inRome,where he distinguished himself with athesis examining faith-based cinemaand its potential for contemporary evangelisation. His thesis, titled “Self-sustaining cinema and faith as acreative engine: The case of The Chosen andthe birth of anew model of Christian participatory production,” analysed how religious content can achieve both artistic quality and commercial success.
“Filmmaking represents oneofthe forms of evangelisation with the greatest potential in the contemporary landscape,” Furgione explainedinhis thesis. “The Bible constitutes the greatest source of historical narrativeinexistence, offering inexhaustible stories and infinite inspiration foranew generationof filmmakers.” Furgione believes that faith-based projects can transcend purely commercial considerations when builton clear mission and shared vision.
his ab productio Unu rather story path wo ho youth,”
Africa completed
TOMMASO TOPS ROME FILM SCHOOL, PLANSSAFILM
Twee sterf in vragmotorongeluk op N7-snelweg
Die Wes-Kaapsepolisie hetbevestig datdie polisie in Bothasig‘nsaak van strafbare manslagondersoek nadat ‘n gru-ongelukdie afgelope naweek op die N7-snelweg dielewens vantweemense geëishet.
Nuus oordie voorvalisopsosiale media versprei.
Die ongeluk, waarby ´n enkele tenkervragmotor betrokke was, het Saterdag 7Maart omstreeks 15:40 op diehoofweg naby dieBosmansdamweg-oprit in Bothasiggebeur.
Die linkerbaan(noordwaarts) op dieN7 wastydelik gesluit virverkeer.
Thembakazi Mpendukana,provinsiale polisiewoordvoerder, sê volgens verslae het ‘n 40-jarige manlike bestuurder glo beheer oordie vragmotorverloor,waarna diteers met‘nversperring, en toe teen‘n brug se pilaar gebots het.
Die bestuurder en ‘n 31-jarigemanlike
passasier is op dietoneel dood.
Geen ander voertuie was by dieongeluk betrokke nie, sê Mpendukana.
Diesaak wordtansondersoek.
Luidens mediaberigte is dieoorledene geidentifiseerasRodric Zenda, ´n Zimbabwiër.Die passasier is glo as sy broergeidentifiseer
DieSATruckersesosialemediablad berigdat Zenda ´n welbekende eienaaren bestuurder van ‘n vragmotor was.
Daar wordverderberig dat dietenkervragmotor leeg was ten tyde van die voorval, en dat dietweebroersonderweg was om dittelaatvul
DieAstron-raffinaderye is enkele kilometers vervan dietoneelgeleë.
DieBothasiggemeenskapspolisiëringforum (GPF), wat ooknuusoor dievoorval gedeel het, hethul medelyemet dieslagoffersse naasbestaandes betuig
So lykdie ongelukstoneel Saterdag 7Maartopdie N7-snelwegnabyBothasig.
TweeDeTyger-atletemikvirWP
Altesame 19 leerders van die Laerskool De Tyger in Parow het onlangs in dieParow-Ravensmead-span aan die Metro-Noord-opvoedkunde-distriksbyeenkoms deelgeneem en uitstekende vertoningsinverskeie baan- envelditems gelewer.
Hierdie prestasies is volgens die skool die resultaat van toegewyde oefening, deursettingsvermoëensterk spanondersteuning.
Van dié groephet twee leerdersvir die Metro-Noord-span gekwalifiseer.
KayleighWhitehead, ’n gr.7-leerder,het ’n tweede plek in spiesgooi behaal, terwyl Liane Naudé, ’n gr.4-leerder, tweede geëindig het in hoogspring.
19 ATLETE NEEM DEEL AAN DISTRIKSBYEENKOMS
“Ons is ongelooflik trots op onsleerders se prestasies. Atletiek ontwikkel nienet fisieke nie, maar ook selfdissipline en deursettingsvermoë –waardeswat ons daagliksbydie skool uitleef,” sê Wiehan Smit,skoolhoof
Die Laerskool De Tyger, wat in 2025 sy 60ste bestaansjaar gevier het, bied onderrig van gr. RR tot gr. 7. Benewens akademie en sport bied die skool ook ’n koderingsklub vir leerders vangr. Rtot gr. 7aan.Vanaf 2027 sal ’n Engelsegr. R- en gr. 1-klasook aangebied word.
WiehanSmit,skoolhoof, staan by die gelukbringer.
Kayleigh Whitehead en Liane Naudé
THINKING OUTLOUD LEWENSKIEKIE
We must hold institutionsaccountable
Maybe todayyou woke up to the hum of traffic, the calls of street vendors and therhythm of everyday life.For me theday begins quietly. But forothers it begins with worry, struggle or uncertainty. March is Human Rights Month in SouthAfrica.
Laterthis month, on 21 March, thecountrywillmark HumanRights Day, remembering theSharpeville Massacreof1960,when policeopened fireonunarmed protesters demanding dignityand freedom. Sixty-nine people were killed. Their deaths remind usthathuman rights arenot abstract ideals; theyare protections between dignityand oppression.However,what dohuman rights look like today?
Look farawayand the pictureisgrim. Thethree-year warbetween Israel and Gazasaw homes,schools, hospitals, nottomentionlives, destroyed. It left us withthe spectreoffamiliesfleeing under relentless fire, children going hungry, traumatisedcivilians living in constant fear.Wholesaleviolations of international law, lack of humanitarian access to basicneeds, shelter andprotections were paraded before us by theworld's media everyday
This is astark reminder that rights arefragile. They are neitherautomatic nor guaranteed. And here at home rights arejust as vulnerablethough the threats may seem quieter
Last week, FinanceMinister EnochGodongwana delivered the national Budget Speech. Numbers,projections, allocations, it allsounded distant.However,each rand has consequences. Funding decisions determine whether clinics have enoughmedicine,whether police patrolsreach our streets, whether families finally get aroof overtheir heads. Everyline of abudgetaffects whetherrightsare realised or remain promises on paper.
Isee it.A nurseinKhayelitsha attends to patients in a clinic with long queues and limitedresources. Ateenager in MitchellsPlain takesovercrowded public transport to school, wheretextbooksand supplies are oftenscarce. AfamilyinMarikana, Philippi,awaits housing, while informal settlements expand. On astreet cornerin Wynberg, ahomeless man reads alibrarybook, finding aquiet moment amid thenoiseoftrafficand passersby. Adeliveryrider navigates busyroads, earning aliving whilehoping forbasic protection from accidents or theft.Theseare not statistics. Theseare human rights in practiceor, sometimes, in peril.
Human rights arenot abstract.Theyare livedand are universal. Freedom of expression matters even when opinions areuncomfortable. Theright to protest exists even when it disruptstraffic. Dignity applies to everyone, even those societywouldrather ignore. Yetthese rights arechallenged dailybyinequality, povertyand neglect. Cape Town reflects the contradictions of South Africa itself.Breathtaking beautyco-exists with entrenched inequality.Pristine suburbssit alongside informal settlements. Modern infrastructurecontrasts withcommunities struggling forbasic services. Opportunityoften depends on wheresomeone is born. Safety,education andhealthcareremain privileges forsome, whileothersare denied their rights. Human Rights Month shouldchallengeus to confront thesecontradictions. Arewebuildinga society where dignityisrealfor everyone,oronlyfor those withmeans? Arewewilling to ask uncomfortablequestions about inequality, neglect,and government accountability? Can we protect the rightsofthe most vulnerable even when it is inconvenient? And hereIsit with an uncomfortable truth; rights aremeaningless if we do not live them in our communities.
They aredefended in the decisions we make,inhow we treatour neighbours, and in theactions we take when we seeinjustice. Human rights aretestedboth in thestreets of Cape Town and in the bombed-out buildingsofGaza. Whetherthe threatiswar,poverty, or neglect,the principleisthe same: everypersondeserves dignity, safety,and opportunity
As we walk toward 21 March partner,the challengeis clear. We cannot simplyremember Sharpeville.Wemust act.Wemust speak to our neighbours, question our leaders, and holdinstitutions accountable.
We must walk the streets with empathy, witnessthe strugglesaround us and challengepolicies that leave peoplebehind. Human rights arenot inherited; theyare defended, livedand chosen, again and again. Andaswemove through this month, letuswalk together in memoryofthe past,but in commitment to the present.Dignitybegins wherewe stand -NAMHLA MONAKALI
Aggressivedog terrifies park visitors
Ivisit LeadvilleDog Park in Sunningdale everyday.A dogschool thereislinkedtoalocal trainingcentre. They allowa dog walker to walk alarge Africanis dog,wearing amuzzle, freelyamong other friendly dogs.I do notapproveofthispractice. Even though the dog maynot be abletobite becauseofthe muzzle, it stillaggressivelyattacks other dogs,which is clearlywhy the muzzleisrequired. Unfortunately, this happens everytime thedog is presentatthe park
Ipreviouslycontacted the dog school politelyvia a phone message, as callsare notanswered, and asked
that this dog be removedfromthe premises, as it traumatises both thedogsthatare attacked andtheir owners. On Monday, aWhippetwas attacked, andthe ownerwas extremelyshaken. She hassincesaid that she does notwanttoreturn to the park Iunderstandthatthe intention maybetosocialise this dog, but Ibelieve that attempting this with a fully-growndog that consistentlydisplaysaggressive behaviourina public dog park is inappropriateand unsafe
Duringthe incident, Ishouted at the walker and askedher to leavethe park. In theheatofthe moment,
Rising ratesput Cape Town’spensionersatrisk
As Cape Town heads into the 2026 municipal election, acrisis is unfolding quietlyinplain sight.Pensioners arebeing forced from their homes becausemunicipal rates andservicecharges areskyrocketing, while their fixed retirement incomes remain stagnant,which is furthernegatively impacted by the current deteriorating economic climateand lowgrowth and inflation rates in SouthAfrica.
Much of the City’sIntegrated Development Plan (IDP)budget prioritises subsidies forindigent residents andservices to informal settlements —includinghouseholds that makelittleornocontribution to municipal rates andtaxes.
Whilethis support is important forthe needy,the consequence is that long-term homeowners, many of them elderly,are left shoulderingthe bulk of the City’s revenue needs. Theresult: ratesthathavebecome unaffordablefor those who builtthiscity.
This is not just afinancial issue— it is aconstitutional andmoral one. Section 10 guarantees dignity, Section 26 the right to housing, andelderlycitizens have aright not to be economically displaced from homes theyworked decades to secure Politicalparties, take note:pensioners and longterm homeowners areapowerful,significant,and engagedvoting bloc. How the Cityand political parties address this
imbalance,through rebates, income-linked rate caps, or deferred paymentschemes to protect elderly homeowners from economic eviction, willdefine their commitment to fairness andresponsiblegovernance.
In addition,the law already recognises the need for relief.The localgovernment: Municipal PropertyRates Actspecifically allows municipalities to implement measures to assist pensioners and vulnerablehomeowners. TheOlder PersonsAct likewiseemphasises the dutyofthe statetoprotect the well-being and dignityofolder citizens. Yetagrowing number of pensioners fall through the cracksofexisting policies.
ThecurrentCityrebatesystems rely on rigid income thresholds that excludemanymiddle-classpensioners who live on modest retirementincomesbut appear too“wealthy” on paper to qualify forassistance
Thesystemeffectivelyassumes that propertyvalue equals financial capacity—anassumption that is demonstrablyfalse formanyretirees.
Cape Town’spensioners who builtthis citydeserve to ageina placewith security, dignity, andrespect Anything less is afailureofgovernanceand leadership
Cape Town prides itselfongood governance and forward-thinking administration
Addressingthisissuebeforeitbecomesa crisis woulddemonstratepreciselythat kind of leadership CONCERNED PENSIONER,Brackenfell
Isuggested that euthanasia might be considered as an option.Inresponse, Iwas threatened that my owndog wouldbeattacked, andrude gestures were directed at me Iamonceagain asking that this muzzled dog be removedfromLeadville Dog Park.The park belongs to the CityofCape Town, and despiteraising these concerns, Ifeel that my plea hasnot been heard. Iam thereforesharingthis experiencepubliclyinthe hope that it willbetaken seriouslyand that the safety of dogsand their ownerswillbeprioritised. CONCERNED,Email
Moeg vanhulp vra by munisipaliteit
Dit is uiters frustrerend om weekliks om hulp by die Stad Kaapstad aan te klop vir die verskuiwing vandie plakkers by die Kuilsrivier-kanaal langsdie Kuilsrivier-hospitaal,maar niksgebeur nie
Verwysingsnommers vir diensversoeke hoop op en geen terugvoeringwordontvang nie
Intussen vermeerder die plakkers.Snags word plastiektenteopgerig om meer menseteakkommodeer
Die DA noem in die media die persentasiegewyse afname vanwerkloosheid in Kaapstad as gevolg van werkskepping.
Tenspyte vandié gespogindie media beweeg meer mensenadie Wes-Kaap vir werksgeleenthede,wat die partyhoop goed is vir meer DA-stemme
Dit het 'n direkte impakopdie verhoging vanmy erfbelasting. Die DA-geleide Stad Kaapstad moet die menseakkommodeer en water, krag en skuiling voorsien.
Intussen moetekasgefrustreerde inwoner van Soneikedaaglikstoekyk hoedie plakkers feitlik op my voorstoep toeneem
Ná vele oproepe en kommunikasie metdie wetstoepassers,die burgemeester vanKaapstad en die wykraadslidvan die DA,isnog niksbereik nie
Uitnodigingsaan DA-leiersvir 'n besoek aan die plakkergebied valopdowe ore. Dit komvir my voor of die plakkerprobleem in Soneikegeen oplossing het nie Dankie DA J.J.CLOETE, Soneike
DIE WÊRELD IS DROOG: Die wind waai verlede Sondaglaatmiddagsand op anderkant die Theewaterskloofdam se huidigewatervlak. FOTO:CARINAROUX
Hospitalunveilsanniversarybanner
years,Karl Bremer Hospital has been acknowledged for excellence in stroke management, becoming the first public sector hospitalinthe WesternCape to achieve Gold Status in 2023and the second public sector hospital in South Africa to receive Diamond Status, the highest distinction in the StrokeAwards Programme
These achievements reflect the hospital’s dedication to clinical excellence,teamwork and improved patient outcomes
Jonathan Lucas, ChiefExecutive Officer of KarlBremerHospital, said the 70-year milestone represents more than just an anniversary.
“Seventyyearsismore than amilestone, it is atestament to the resilience of our staff, the trust of ourcommunity and our unwaveringcommitment to providing qualityhealthcare,”Lucas said.
“While we acknowledge that challenges have shapedpartsofour journey, we remain firmly focused on strengthening our services,enhancing patient care and building asustainable hospital for future generations. This anniversary year is an opportunitytoreflectwith pride and move forward with purpose.”
Shahnaz Adams,aHospital Board member for six years, highlighted the consistent effortsmade to deliver highstandardhealthcare.
“Management and staff work together to continually improve services while addressing the needs andconcerns of patientsand their families,” Adams said.
“Theyremain responsive to challenges and the changing healthcaredemands within thecommunity theyserve. Iam very hopefulthat, movingforward, Karl
Bremer Hospital will continue on its trajectory of continuous improvement towardachieving healthcare excellence.”
YEAR-LONGCELEBRATIONPLANNED
Theanniversary year will featurea series of public and stakeholder events, culminating in key celebrations in June and December. These activities will highlight the hospital’slegacy, showcase clinical innovation and share stories of staff dedication and patient impact
As KarlBremer Hospital celebrates thismilestone, it does so with aforwardlooking vision committed to strengthening services, restoring and maintaining public confidence and continuing to serve the community with compassion, resilience and excellence.
CEOJonathan Lucas,boardmember Shahnaz Adams,DrSue le Roux and Cherylene Cornelius.
TopGunwenpotjiekoskompetisie
Diepotte het heerlik geprutby die Tygerberg-Sakekamer se potjiekoskompetisie, wat Vrydagop die terrein van die Hoërskool De Kuilen plaasgevind het.Oudergewoonte het sake-ondernemings uit dienoordelike voorstede vanKaapstad metgroot gees om die gesogte titels meegeding.
POTTE PRUT BEHOORLIK
Vanjaarserooipot-kampioenisTop Gun. DieBrackenfell-polisie se span, Die Damduikers het die witpot gewen. Bokradio het die beste potbrood gemaak, en TJ's LekkaBraai die beste potpoeding.
Die Rooipot-wenspanvan TopGun bestaan uit Wynand Miller en Darren Bustin. FOTO’S:LEAHMAY
Rhynhardt Bresler,wykraadslid vir Kraaifontein,en SunélBeeselaar, voorsitter vir die sakekamer,wasook daar
Diespanvan SJCSecurityhet ook deelgeneem
Diespanvan HOOP bestaan uit WilindaFord,Ansjen du PlessisenAmandaGoosen.
Poverty, long distances to clinics, low literacy levelsamongparents andmisinformation spreading on social media are preventing children from receiving crucial vaccinations. Thisleaves many vulnerable to preventable diseases like measles and polio, according to new research.
AUniversity of the Western Cape-led (UWC) study has found that children from low-income households are significantly less likely to be fullyimmunised. They remain at risk from dangerous infections, including pneumococcal diseases thatcan causelife-threatening conditions such as meningitis.
The research was led by Dr Bridgette Lockett from UWC's School of Nursing. It identified several barriers preventing children fromcompleting their vaccination schedules. These include negative experiences at clinics, loss of income from taking time off work, large family sizes and high transport costs to reach health-care facilities.
"Caregivers' knowledge about vaccines varies widely,withmuch lower awareness in communities with lower levels of education," thestudy found. "Parental education is one of thestrongest factors in determiningwhether achild completes their full vaccination schedule."
The research team included Dr Juliana Willemse fromUWC and DrRugira Modeste of Stellenbosch University's Department of Nursing and Midwifery.
CURRENTDISEASEFLARE-UPS
The findings are particularly concerning as parts of CapeTown are experiencing flare-ups of preventable childhood illnesses. Recently, theprovincial health department reported responding to suring lthy promotingwell-being for all ages.
Durbanville cyclistraises R25000 forchildren’s home
MAURICIAPETERSEN
MAURICIA.PETERSEN@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
Marius du Preez achieved his first milestone as he embarks on upgraded R250 000 fundraising adventure.
After we featured hisinspiring “Suffer for Joy” charity initiative in January the 58-year-old Durbanville cyclist has begun his epic 7000km solo bike-packing adventure acrossSouthernAfrica and already achieved his first majormilestone
On Monday 2March 2026, asMariusset off on his gruelling unsupported journey, he celebrated asignificant achievement: the first donation handover ofR25 000 to Die Herberg Children’s Home in Robertson,Western Cape.
The response to Marius’ original story has been so encouraging he has increased his fundraising target from the original R120 000 to an ambitious R250 000. This enhanced goal will provide even more birthday celebrations and support for the 120 abused, abandoned and vulnerable children at the Herbergfacility.
The initial donation represents just the beginning. As Marius travels through Southern Africaevery kilometrehecovers brings thesevulnerable children closer to experiencing birthday celebrations they’ve never had -complete with cakes, candles,
and gifts.
Photos from the handover showthe officialbanktransfer of R25 000, marked clearly with “SUFFERfor JOY”, tangible proofthat this ambitious fundraising journey is already makingareal difference in young lives.
HOWYOUCANHELP
With R25 000 already secured and R225 000 still to raise the success of this firstmilestone proves that the community believes in Marius’s mission. Every contributionbrings these childrencloser to experiencingthe joy of their firstreal birthdaycelebration.
As he faces the challenges ahead, his message remains clear: every hardship he endures translates directly intojoy for children who desperately need it.
Die Herberg Children’s Home in Robertsoncontinues to provide crucial care forvulnerable children across the Western Cape.
This fundraising initiative represents acommunity coming together to ensure every child experiences the simple joy of a birthday celebration.
Team Silver, led by captain Collins“It’z Skarrra” Manyame,has emerged victorious at the inaugural Red Bull Locked In tournament, claiming the 2026 championship title in Cape Town.
The teamsecured theirvictoryon 7March during the intense 48-hour endurance competition held at Bellville Velodromefrom 6to8March. The event marked agroundbreaking moment in SouthAfrican esports, combining highstakesgaming with real-world challenges.
The Red Bull Locked In formatpushed competitors beyond traditional gaming boundaries. Teams battled through Battle Royale, Wildcard, and Mixtape modes whilst navigating knockout mechanics and
CAPE TOWN HOSTSRED BULLCHAMPIONS
unexpected twists that could eliminate or revive teams at anymoment.
The tournament’sunique structure demanded notonly gamingskill but also stamina, strategy, andadaptabilityfrom participants. Spectators, content creators, andthe local gaming community gathered to witnessthe innovative competition unfold.
EMOTIONALVICTORYFORCHAMPIONS
Team Silvermember Julio Bianchi reflected on the intensity of the experience: “Preparation can only take yousofar. After that, you have to take a fewleaps of faith. What started out as fun
and games quickly became arollercoaster of emotions.”
Bianchi expressed gratitude for the opportunity, saying: “I feel privileged and honoured to have been part of thisone-ina-million event. Thank you to everyone who made it possible, specifically Red Bull, and aspecial shout-outtoour team captain Collins ‘It’z Skarrra’.”
Thetournament featured NAGMagazine as itsofficial media partner, highlighting the growing recognition of competitive gaming in SouthAfrica.
With the inaugural championship now complete, Team Silver has set the standard for future Red Bull Locked In competitions, establishing themselves as the first champions of thisunique esports format.
Micah (13) thrives withhearing
Thirteen-year-old Micah Classen from Blackheath is living proof that early detection of hearing loss can open doors to abright future.
The confident Grade 8learner, who dreams of becoming an audiologist, has thrived academically despite being diagnosed with moderate to severehearing loss at age four.
Her inspiring journey came intofocus during WorldHearing Day on 3March, when theprovincialdepartment of health highlighted the critical importance of earlyhearing screening for all children.
Micah's story began at Tygerberg Hospital, where she was diagnosed and fitted with hearing aids. Shethen received therapy support through theCarel du Toit CHAT Centre, demonstrating how
the province's integratedhealth system workstosupport children with hearing challenges "Bepatient andconfident anddonot feelinsecure, because God made you in his own special way," Micah sharesas advice for otherchildren with hearing difficulties."Andtothe people who can hear, trytounderstand more,because we arejust like you."
EARLYSCREENINGSAVESFUTURES
According to Chéri vanZyl, chief audiologist at Red Cross WarMemorial Children's Hospital, early intervention is key topreventing hearing loss from affecting achild's communication, learning,and confidence.
"A child'sability to hear shapes their
entire developmental journey," Van Zyl explains. "When hearing difficulties are identified early, we can intervene before they affect development.
Early action truly changesoutcomes.
"The mosteffective approach is hearing screeningwithin ababy's first month of life –a process that's quick, gentle, and painless, available at public health facilitiesacrossthe province.
Parentsand caregivers should seek assessmentiftheynotice:
. Babieswho don't startle to loud sounds; . Limited or delayed babbling;
. Delayed or unclearspeech;
. Frequent ear infections;
. Children turningupdevice volumes excessively;
. Difficulty following classroom instructions.
"If somethingfeelsoff, it's always worth checking," advises Van Zyl. "Babies often respond to facial expressions rather than sound,soobjective screening is the only reliable way to detecthearing loss early."
CAREFORALLAGES
While early detection is crucial, hearing health matters throughout life. Megan Davis-Ferguson,assistant director of audiology at GrooteSchuur Hospital, explains thattheir integrated approach supports residents fromnewborn screeningthrough adult care..
If you're concernedabout hearing loss in yourfamily, start at your nearest clinic or community health centre. Primary healthcare staff will assess concerns and referyou to appropriate hospital services if needed.Specialist audiology and ENT servicesatregional andtertiary hospitals are accessed by referralonly, ensuring that specialised careremains available for thosewho need it most.
Supporting children with hearing challengesrequires community-wide effort. Familiescan help by seeking prompt treatment for earinfections, reducing exposure to loud noise, and supporting routinehearing screening. Teachersplay avital rolebyencouraging consistent useofhearing devices, seating affected childrennearthe front of
aid
classrooms, and using clear visual and verbal communication.
ABRIGHTERFUTURE
As Van Zyl emphasises, "Every child deserves the chance to grow in aworld full of sound. Together, families, teachers, communities, and healthcare teams can ensure no child is left behind."
Untreated hearing loss affects speech, literacy, confidence, and social development. By prioritising early hearing care, we strengthen not only individual children but our entire community. For Micah and countless other children, early detection and intervention have opened doors to unlimited possibilities –proving that with the right support, hearing challenges need never hold achild back. If you have concerns about hearing loss, don't delay. Contact your nearest clinic for assessment. Early action leads to better outcomes.
Team Silverled by Collins“Skarra”Manyame wins the RedBullLockedIninCape Town,South Africaon7 March
Participant is seen during RedBullLocked In in Bellville
Team Captain Collins is seen duringRed BullLocked In.
From left: Jeannette Birkenstock,assistantdirector,Department of Speech Therapyand Audiologyat TygerbergHospital; Micah Classen; and Nokwanda Ndlovu,audiologist at TygerbergHospital.
Micah Classen (13) from Blackheath,aconfident Grade 8learner,has thrived academically despite being diagnosedwithmoderatetoseverehearing loss at agefour
Citytoexpandnaturereserves
KAILINDANIELS KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
The City of Cape Town is planning amajor expansion of its nature reserve network, with Wolfgat Nature Reserve among five reserves set to grow, while two new reservesare proposed for the Helderberg area.
The City’s Mayco endorsedthe proposal earlier today,which will nowbesubmitted to Council for approval. If supported,the plan will add an additional 950,1hectares to the reserves currently managed by the City. The proposal includes the proclamation of two new naturereserves in Somerset West —Schapenberg Nature Reserve and Paardevlei Nature Reserve together covering 88,2 hectares,while five existing reserves across Cape Town will be expanded by 861,9 hectares.
SAFEGUARDINGENVIRONMENT
Deputy Mayor and Maycomember for spatial planning and environment Eddie Andrews said the expansion will help safeguard CapeTown’s unique natural environment while also providing valuable recreational spaces for residents.
“Most of these reserves arelocated close to communitiesand provide residents withaplace where they can spend time in nature,away from roads, buildings, traffic andnoise,” Andrews said.
He added that many of the reserves offer hiking trails, walking routes, bird hides, educational centres and picnic spotsfor visitors. “Beyond recreation and wellbeing, these areas also allow us
CITY OFCAPE TOWN TO ADD NEARLY 1000 HECTARESTO PROTECTED AREAS
to secure land for conservationpurposes. Byprotectingbiodiversity offsets we can facilitate future development without compromisingour biodiversity,” he said.
TWONEWHELDERBERGRESERVES
Council’s support will be requested forthe proclamation of two new nature reserves in the Helderberg area.
Schapenberg Nature Reserve, located on theSchapenberg Hills in SomersetWest, will cover 13,2 hectares,while Paardevlei Nature Reserve, alsoinSomerset West, will consist of 75 hectares
The City officially launched Schapenberg Nature Reserve in September last year and has already started clearinginvasive alien vegetation to reduce fire risks in the area.
TheEnvironmentalManagement Department is also workingonidentifying sustainable activities for the reserve thatare compatible with its natural environment.
Five existingreserves will alsobe expanded if Council approvesthe proposal. These include: . HarmonyFlats Nature Reserve in
Milestonemoment
KAILINDANIELS
KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
Environmental initiative
Save aFishie has reached amajor milestone, celebrating its 500th cleanup while removing more than 54 tonnes of litter from beaches, rivers and communities.
What began as asmall effort to pick up litter and inspire others to do the same has grown into alargecommunitydrivenmovement supported by volunteers, schools and sponsors.
Founder Zoë Prinsloo reflected on the journey, saying the milestone represents far more than just numbers.
“Five hundred times Ihave stood on abeach, riverbank or street anddecided this place matters,” said Prinsloo.
“Mostofthe time we were joined by incredible volunteers who showed up early on cold mornings, in the wind,rain and blazing sun —not because they had to, but because they care.”
GROWINGACOMMUNITYMOVE-
MENT
Since its founding, Save a Fishie cleanups have taken place across various coastal and community areas, bringing together people from all walks of life who share apassion for protecting the environment.
Prinsloosaysthe project has grownbeyond what she ever imagined when it first started.
“Whatstarted as asmall idea hasgrown into somethingfar bigger than Iever imagined.
Together we have removed morethan 54 tonnes of litter fromthe environment —litter thatwon’t harm marine life or wash backinto the ocean.”
MORETHANJUSTNUMBERS
According to Prinsloo, the real successofthe initiative lies in the people behind it.
Volunteers,schools bringing learners toparticipate, and sponsors supporting thework haveall played an important role in helping the project grow.
“This milestone is about people —the volunteers who keep showing up, the schools who bring their learners, and the children who pick up their firstpiece of litter and realise they canhelp protect the ocean,” she said.
While the organisation celebrates reaching 500 cleanups,Prinsloosays the journey is farfrom over.
“From the bottom of my heart,thank youtoeveryone who helped us reach this incredible milestone. Andthe bestpart? We’reonly getting started.Here’s to the next 500 cleanups.”
Naturereservesinare home to important indigenous flora and birdlife.TheCityplans to expand
as part of its biodiversity protection e
Strand—anadditional 0,9 hectares
. Table BayNature Reserve in Milnerton— 0,8hectares
. Uitkamp Wetland Nature Reserve in Durbanville —3,9 hectares
. Witzands AquiferNatureReserve in Atlantis —826,2hectares
. Wolfgat Nature Reserve in Mitchells Plainand Maccassar— 30,1 hectares
The expansion of Witzands Aquifer NatureReserve represents the largest portion of theproposed additions.
If Councilgives the green light, the City
will submit the proposed proclamations to the Western Cape MEC for Environmental Affairs and Development Planning for gazetting.
This will include anotice of intent to proclaim the reserves and a60-day public participation process, during which residentswill be able to submit comments.
City officials say the expansion of protected natural areas will help ensure that Cape Town’s biodiversity is preserved while also providing accessible green spaces for communities to enjoy.
500
Save aFishie founder ZoëPrinsloo celebrates the organisation’s milestone of
cleanups
Vermaak // Entertainment
‘PrettyWoman’onstage
South African theatreaudiences are getting their first tasteofBroadway glamour as Pretty Woman: TheMusical makes its localdebut this month, bringing the beloved1990film to life on stage.
Themusicaladaptation of theJulia Roberts andRichard Gere romantic comedy opensatCape Town'sArtscape TheatreonWednesday18March, beforetransferringtoJohannesburg's Teatroat Montecasinofrom24April.
Basedonthe hitHollywood film, thestage version features music by GrammyAward-winning artist BryanAdams, who hasexpressedhis enthusiasm for theproduction.The show combines theoriginalRoy Orbison classic"Oh, Pretty Woman" with newsongs written specifically forthe stageadaptation.
TIMELESSSTORY
Themusicaltells thestory of Vivian andEdward, twounlikelycharacterswhose chanceencounter leads to an unexpected romance. Sinceits Broadway premierein2018, theshowhas enjoyedsuccessful runs in London'sWestEnd and toured across North America andEurope
"The show delivered high-energy ensemblenumbers, dazzling costumes andsets, anda soundtrack that hadthe audiencetakingatrip back in time to the90s," noted Broadway Worldintheir review
Localproduction companyShowtime Managementisbringing themusicaltoSouth Africa in partnershipwithCrossroads LiveNorth America. Theproduction features an all-South Africancast, crew andorchestraworking alongside international creative staff
"This timeless storyhas captured theheartsof audiences around theworld," said HazelFeldman from ShowtimeManagement
"Local theatre-goerswillexperiencethe unforgettablesongs, dazzling performances, andall the romance, humour andheart that made the filma
classic."
Theoriginalcreativeteamincludes book writers GarryMarshalland J.F. Lawton, who createdthe originalfilm,withsongsbyBryan Adamsand Jim Vallance.TonyAward winner JerryMitchellprovides directionand choreography.The productioncarries a PG rating of 12+due to adultthemes, andparental guidanceisrecommended.
Group discountsapplyfor partiesof20ormore, andspecialTuesdaydiscountsare available. . Ticketsare available through Showtime.co.za andTicketmaster.co.za.
WIN!WIN!WIN! Tworeaders caneach win aset of twotickets to seePretty Woman on Thursday26March at 19:30atArtscape.
Find this articleand entryformonline at www.tygerburger.co.za
Ascene from Pretty Woman withinternational cast members.
Ascene from Pretty Woman withinternationalcastmembers.
WandisaisURGENTLY seeking anyone with information as to the whereabouts of the following: The biological father andr any relatives of afemale child, "Anashe Materekwe" born on 24 January 2026, and/or "Leopold Muchenga" who resided in Milnerton.
To contact Renate from Wandisa on 079 063 4144 URGENTLY. Should no responsetothis notice be forthcoming, the child may be adoptedthrough Court.
AANDAG ALMAL Wernersoekdringend aljulle 2de handse meubels. Betaal kontant. ALLE AREAS 083565 1685 078 1501702
HANEPOOTDRUIWE te koop op die Bettelarypad. 021 203 3424
AANDAG ALMAL kontant vir enige huis-houdelikegoed klere, skoene, beddegoed, gordyne, speelgoed, oudhede, juweliersware -goud, breekgoed, potte, elektroniese ware. MEUBELS yskaste, beddens, Sitkamerstelle, tv's. (en baie meer) Johan 074474 4275
BLINDS :All Types. Discount on immediate orders Alfonso 071574 8102 021592 0426
of theDeeds RegistriesAct,1937,ofthe intentiontoapply for theissue of a certified copy of Deed of Transfer Number ST15107/2006 passed by Theexecutorinthe Estate Late CECIL GEORGE SMITH COWAN, No 400/2005 in favourof KAY POWELL, IdentityNumber 3803060083080, Married out of community of propertyinrespect of certain AUnitconsisting of (a) Section No. 98 as shownand more fullydescribed on SectionalPlan No SS 176/1982 in theschemeknown as THORNIEBRAE in respect of the
DSTV &antennae installation (HDPVR), extra points, home theatre&CCTV systems. CONTACT: 073161 0655 stevesatservices@gmail.com
