TygerBurger | Bellville | E-Edition | 28 January 2026

Mauricia Petersen 0 021 9106557 2 mauricia.petersen@novusmedia.co.za

WHAT’S ON /WAT’S WAAR

WHAT

THURSDAY29JANUARY

. TheR5book sale at Durbanville Children'sHome willtakeplace on Thursday 29 Januaryand Friday 30 Januaryfrom09:00 to 15:00,and on Saturday 31 Januaryfrom09:00 to 13:00inthe reception area Therewillbeaselectionoftextbooks –all at R5 each. Also CDs, DVDs and books, including children's books and coffee-tablebooks,willbeonsale.

. Join a5km socialfun run/walk in support of TEARS AnimalRescuefromJARRYDS in SeaPoint,calledKudostothe Cause. JARRYDSwilldonate R50 to TEARS forevery runner taking part,and you’ll geta free coffee.Bethereat06:00 to startrunning at 06:30. Dogs arewelcome!Registerat: www.nonamehg.com/ event-details/kudos-to-the-cause-5km-run-tears-2

SATURDAY31JANUARY

. Read To Rise and itsmascot, Oaky the Acorn, will host its annual Cape FlatsBookFestival at West End PrimarySchool in LentegeuronSaturdayand Sunday, 31 Januaryand 1February. Thefestivalisfilled with poetry,storytelling,authors, workshops,mascots, puppet shows, giveawaysand much more.Entrance is free.Visit readtorise.co.za/book-festival formore informationabout the festival.

SATURDAY31JANUARY

. FunkelsThrift market takesplace between11:00 and16:00 at KraaifonteinCivic Centre. Preloved fashion, vintagegemsand bargainfinds -everythingunder R50. Come forgreat music, good vibes, and tasty food.Freeentry.For more information, call Garthon 078638 1540

.TheEdgemeadLibraryishosting asecond-hand book sale at the libraryfrom09:00 to 12.00. Thebook sale is hosted by the Friends of Edgemead Library. They have alarge selectionofdonatedadultand children’sfiction and non-fiction books, as well as puzzles,CDs,DVDsand magazines forsale. Prices rangefromR5upwards peritem. Card paymentsare accepted forpurchasesofR50 and over.

SUNDAY1FEBRUARY

. Edgemead’slargest indoorsecondhand market takesplace at the Edgemead Community Hallin EdgemeadDrive from 08:0014:00.All kindsof secondhand household,collectables, bric-a-brac,prelovedclothing and much morewillbeonsale.

SATURDAY7FEBRUARY

. TheCapeTownGem and MineralClubwillbe having itsOpen Dayfrom10:00to14:00 at 14aGoede Hoop Street,Bothasig. Allare welcome, from mineral specimen collectors, to friends, familiesand especially children.Freeentrance. Learnmoreabout the hobby of crystal, gemand mineralspecimencollecting,related craftwork, or buy from member traders. Visit www ctminsoc.org.zaoremail admin@ctminsoc.org.za

THURSDAY12FEBRUARY

. Durbanville Business is presentinganexclusive evening of networking,dinner and aguided tour of Stadio HigherEducation'sprestigious newDurbanville campusfrom18:00.DrStanduPlessis, chief executive officerofStadioHigher Education, will be the guest speaker. ThecostisR150 formembers and R350 for non-members, dinnerand wine included. Seatsare limited. Confirmattendancebefore8Februaryby email to info@durbanvillesakekamer.co.za

SATURDAY14FEBRUARY

. Love willbeinthe airthisValentine’sDay as MdzanandaAnimalClinic& Shelterhosts itsValentine’s Picnic forPaws- aspecialfundraising eventin support of theanimals of Khayelitsha -from10:00 to 14:00atJoostenbergBistro&Deli. Theevent promises arelaxed and memorablepicnic experiencefilled with good food, greatcompany,and ameaningful cause. Well-behaved dogs arewelcome to join their owners on theday.Ticketsare available viaQuicket Visit www.mdzananda.co.zaoremail Kellyonfund@ mdzananda.co.zafor moreinformation.

DONDERDAG19FEBRUARIE

. Die TygerbergTuin- en Blommeklubspring diejaar wegmet RuanEastes se praatjie oorbromeliasen Diana de Vossepraatjie oorPot-et-fleur.Die tema vandie blommekunskompetisie is "Tradisioneel vertikaal". Die klub het 'n propvolprogram metinteressanthedeelkederde Woensdag vandie maand by dieNG kerk ParowWelgelegen(La Provence47, Welgelegen) om 09:30vir 10:00. Teewordvanaf09:30 bedien.Bel Beatrix Lambert-Bestbier by 082873 9864 virmeer inligting.

VRYDAG20FEBRUARIE

. Die Weg-stapfeeswordvan Vrydag 20 totSondag 22 FebruariebyMeerendal buiteDurbanville aangebied. Stappers kankiesuit verskeieafstande.Daar sal'n6km-, 'n 10km-, 12 km- of 21 km-stapoor die naweekaangebied word.Skryf in vir een, twee of drie staptogteofaldriedae.Daarsal ookkoffie-, bier-en kosstalletjies wees, asook'nekspo-ruimte metinteressanteuitstallings. Besoek wegstapfees.topevents. co.zaom in te skryf

Management changeforroads

The City of CapeTown's Urban Mobility Directorate is set to take over the maintenance andmanagement of 32 trafficsignals on national roadswithin its jurisdiction, following approval from the Mayoral Committee for athree-year agreement with the South AfricanNational Roads Agency Limited (Sanral)

Theproposal, whichstill requires City Councilapproval at the end of the month, will seeCape Town manage signalised intersections alongkey national road sectionswhile Sanral continues to bear all construction, maintenanceand operational costs.

The 32 intersections are located along three major national road corridors owned and managed by Sanral:

. TheR300 between the N2 and N1 highways;

. The N2 highway between the R300 and R102;

. The N1 highway from the R300 towards theeast.

This represents asignificant addition to Cape Town's current traffic management responsibilities, as theCity already maintains andmanagesapproximately 1560 signalised intersections across the municipal road network through four dedicated maintenancedepots.

IMPROVEDRESPONSETIMESEXPECTED

RobQuintas, Maycomember for urban mobility, said theinter-governmental cooperation would deliver substantial benefits to road users.

“Road users will benefit significantly

VANBLADSY1

Hierdie duo wil anderouersinspireer om in hul kinders se drome te glo, al lyk dit ook onkonvensioneel.

Vokkiesbied vandag 'n volledige produkspektrumwat landwyd verkoop word. Hul unieke bemarkingsbenadering en humoristiese produkname het 'n lojale aanhang geskep.

Hulle wil jongmense wys dat jy nie 'n fancy agtergrond nodig het om suksesvol te wees nie.

Virhulle gaan dit oor harde werk, kreatiwiteit, en die regte ondersteuning.

VirJacques is die grootste beloning nie net finansiële sukses nie, maar die bewys dat 'n pa se geloof in sy kind se drome werklik 'n verskil kan maak.

Jacques glo elke kind het ‘n talent. “Die werk as ouers is om daardie talent raak te sienengroot te maak —maak nie saak hoe groot die droom lyk nie,”sêhy.

Jacques se boodskapaan ander ouers is eenvoudig, dat jy jou kind se drome moet ondersteun, al verstaan jy dit nie altyd nie.

“Jy weet nooitwaarheen dit kan lei nie.”

‘n Oudleerder vandie Laerskool Gene Louw bewysdat entrepreneurskap met die regte ondersteuning totnasionaleerkenning kan lei.Op die foto is Wedrich en sy pa,Jacques

CITY TAKESOVER SECTIONSOFNATIONAL ROADSFOR THREE-YEAR AGREEMENT

from this inter-governmental cooperation because it will allow us to respond to faults at Sanral signals and do component upgrades that will improve the operational efficiencies of the signals at theseintersections and keep Cape Town moving.”

He praised the City's expertise in trafficsignal management, highlighting dedicated staff responsible for sequencing, alignment and timing to optimise traffic flows along major transport networks.

Theproposed 36-month agreement will outline obligations for both parties, including costs for materials, labour, upgrades and new installations. Sanral's signals are integrated intothe area traffic control network and monitored from the Transport Management Centre.

This arrangement builds on Cape Town's existing collaboration with Sanral, which currently operates and maintains the Freeway Management System on behalf of the three road authorities responsible for Cape Town's freeways: the City, Western Cape Government and Sanral itself.

Theagreement follows previous shorttermarrangementsbetween the two entities for maintaining signalised intersections, indicating amove towards more formalised long-term cooperation in traffic management.

Homeaffairsguard removedfrombranch

Mentalhealthboostforteachers

The Thrive Initiative issupporting teachers, learners and parents with emotional well-being tools as the new school year begins, launching an expanded programme that emphasises the critical importance of educator mental health.

The South African non-profit organisation recently hosted aworkshop at Bellville South Primary School on 13 January, when staff experienced stressreleasetechniques and teambuilding activities designed to improve emotional regulation and communication.

Brian Segal, founder of the Thrive Initiative, highlighted the urgency of supporting teacher mental health at the start ofthe academic year.

“At the start of the school year, stress levels are already high, for teachers learningnew names and personalities, learners adjusting to new environments and parents worrying about academic and social pressures. If we don’t support emotional well-being early that stress accumulates and shows up later as burnout, conflict or disengagement.”

The workshops usepractical

games, body-based exercisesand facilitated conversations to help participants understand stress responses,regulate emotions and build resilience.

POSITIVEFEEDBACK FROMEDUCATORS

Quentin Heinrich, principal of Bellville South Primary School,

PARTICIPANTS PRAISE PROGRAMME

praised the programme’s impact on staff well-beingand team cohesion

“Thesessionhelped me to share certain feelings with my colleagues and Igot to know

some of them on apersonal level.

Sharingwithmycolleagues became very emotional, but that by itself was also astress release.

Iwould really recommend this workshop to any staff as a development session.”

Grade 2teacher Elmey Deyzel described the experience as “surprisingly relaxing” and the

programme was “fantastic to help with mental health,” considering her initial reluctance to attend.

EMOTIONALSAFETY

DRIVESPERFORMANCE

Segal emphasised that supporting teachers’ well-being is essential rather than aluxury, noting that emotional safety and connection improve both teaching and learning outcomes.

“When we help individuals regulateand feel safe, something powerful happens. Listening improves, empathy increases, creativity returns and people become more solution-oriented. This applies equally to a classroom, astaffroom or a home.”

Theinitiative operates on the principle that “connection comes before correction, and emotional safetydrives better performance.”

TheThrive Initiative has also launched a1:3 Social Impact Model where, for every corporate employee trained, three community members in high-risk areas receive access to Thrive tools,expanding the programme’s reach across SouthAfrican communities.

Shopriteisincreasing its useofsolar power.

Retailergrows sustainability

The Shoprite Grouphas achieved a major sustainabilitymilestone with the installation of its 100th solar photovoltaic (PV) system, 10 years after launching its first solar project in 2015.

In 2024, the groupbecame one ofthe first companiestowheel renewable electricity through the City of Cape Town’s grid. It is currently wheeling electricity to eleven sites, including itsHomeOffice in Brackenfell, and is actively seeking further wheelingpartners.

With an installed capacity of over43 300 Kilowatt-peak (kWp),the retailer’s solar portfolio ranksamong the largest of any South African privatecompany. Currently, rooftop solar systems generate enough clean electricity to power nearly 12 300 households annually.

“In 2015, we made along-term commitment to reduce our carbon footprint and play an active role in addressing SouthAfrica’s energy challenges. The installationofour 100th solar PV system reflects thesignificant progress we’ve made in recent years. Our accelerated effortstomeet sciencebased targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and expandingrenewable energy are crucial steps on the path to achieving net-zero emissionsby 2050,”

says Sanjeev Raghubir, chief sustainability officer at the group.

Inthe 2025 financial year, 7,2% of the group’s electricitycame from renewable sources,upfrom 6,5%inthe 2024 financial yearand above the group’s internal target.

The retailer consumed 151 243 MWh of renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions by 137 026 tCO2e. The Group has alsofitted 1397 refrigerated trailers, which forms part of its fleetoperations, withsolar panels, saving3,2 litres of diesel per trailerper day andreducing emissions by an additional 6000 tCO2e.

The retailer continues to explore wheeling projects– whereelectricity is boughtand soldbetween private partiesover the existing transmission grid –todiversify andexpand its renewable energysources.

Theinterventions helped to reduce the retailer’s electricity costs, increased efficiency andenhanced business resilience.

“Our focus is on scalingthese initiatives by increasingsolar installations and expanding wheeling arrangements across oursupermarkets anddistribution centres. We will continue to engage with landlords andpartners to unlock greater access to cleanenergy, particularly in malls where we don’t own therooftops,” Raghubir said.

Trafficcameras catcharsonist

CapeTown's traffic-enforcement technology proved its worth this weekend when CCTV cameras helped police arrestasuspected arsonist who wasallegedly setting fire to vegetation along amajor highway

The suspect was detained just after midnight on Saturday 17 January, after Traffic Communications Centreoperators workingwith Freeway Management Systemcameras spotted someone setting vegetation alight on the M5 northbound, before Berkeley Road.

Acoordinated effort among the Traffic Communications dispatcher, FMSoperator and Highway Patrol led to the suspect's arrest by Highway Patrol officers. The individual was detained at the Maitland PoliceStation, where acase of arson was subsequently opened.

TECHNOLOGYPROVESCRUCIALINCRIME FIGHTING

Maycomember for safety and security

JP Smith said the arrest highlighted the valueoftechnology in combating crime when used effectively.

“We shared statistics just afew days ago about thepressure our services have absorbed to dealwith the increase in vegetation and residentialfires. To have individuals who deliberately set out to causemore pain andpotential harm in this manner, is incredibly frustrating.”

He noted there hadbeen numerous fires alongthe M5 stretchinthe past week, and expressed hope thatthe investigation would include athorough assessment of all theseincidents.

MAN ARRESTED AFTER CCTV CAMERAFOOTAGE SHOWED HIM SETTINGVEGETATION ALIGHT

WEEKENDENFORCEMENTSTATISTICS

Thearson arrest was one of 375 arrests made by the City's enforcement agencies during the past week.

Traffic officers recorded 73 225 offences, impounded 143 publictransport vehicles and executed 1410 warrantsofarrest They made 63 arrests, including 50 for driving under the influence of alcohol, five for reckless and negligent driving and eight for various other offences.

Metro police officers made 110 arrests, issued 3577 traffic and bylaw fines, and recovered various quantities of drugs, one pistol and 432 crayfish tails

Law enforcement officers made 202 arrests and issued 6877 notices.

ThePublic Emergency Communication Centre received 1211 calls for assistance over the weekend, including 429 calls for medical assistance, 46 cases of assault, 29 motor vehicle and pedestrian accidents, 171 noise complaints and 23 reportsof domestic violence.

Thepublic is reminded to report emergencies or any suspicious and criminal activities to the City's Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700, providing detailed information, including the time, exact address and a short description.

Over130 000 patientstreated during festiveperiod

Morethan130 000 caseswererecorded at public health services this past festive season, the provincial health department said in astatement issued last week

Each year thefestive season places increased pressure on emergencyservicesinthe province, it pointed out.Thistreatmentestimate,between 15 December2025and 14 January2026,atemergency centres across theprovinceisaccompanied by the morethan47000 estimated incidentsresponded to by thedepartment's EmergencyMedical Services (EMS), totalling177 000 emergencycases.

TheHealthDepartment said EMS teamsresponded to 47 351 emergencycalls across alldistricts, the highestdemand recorded in greaterCape Town, the Cape Winelands andGarden Route.

It said trauma remained amajor driverofdemand,the EMSresponding to 7353 assault-related casesand 1437 motor-vehicle incidents.

Seasonal risksalsoincreased, with 93 drowning incidents andmultiplewilderness andTableMountain rescues, thedepartment said Emergencycentres recorded atotal of 130004 patientadmissions, including 29 272traumacases

and93755 non-traumacases.

Earlyindicators showedpatientswithchronic medical conditions made up alarge proportion of theseadmissions. This added to thetraumaload, increasing waitingtime at many facilities, the department said

From 15 December last year to 14 Januarythis year most childrenseen in emergencycentres were treatedmainlyfor non-trauma-relatedconditions whilefalls andaccidental injuries remained the leading causes of injury. Overallpaediatric visits were lowerthan theprevious festiveseason, but transport-related casesincreasedby30% andsome rise in violence-related injuries wasrecorded, the department said It said thecases of adults treatedatemergency centreswereprimarilynon-trauma-related. While overallvisits declined compared to theprevious festiveseason–includingfewer accidental injuries, blunt assaults andfalls –seriousviolence-related casessuch as stabbingsand gunshot wounds continued to placepressureonservices.

TheForensicPathologyService confirmed 941 deaths in thereporting period.

Movetobandrinkinganddriving

The Department of Transport is moving to implement atotal ban on drinkingand drivingwhilst breathalysers areset to be installed in taxi vehicles to prevent intoxicated drivers from operating their vehicles.

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy announced plans to amend Section 65 of theNational Road Traffic Act to introduce azero-tolerance policy that would prohibit any alcohol consumption before driving “The time has come for us to amend the law so we have aclear-cut, easy-tounderstand and unambiguous policy thatsays drinking and driving is not allowed,” Creecy said at amedia briefing on the 2025/26 festive season roadsafety performance.

Theminister described the current law, whichallows regular drivers up to 0.05g per 100ml of blood and professionaldrivers up to 0.02g, as “totally unacceptable”.

“Our driving and drinkingpolicy was formulated almost 30 yearsago.Intoday's SouthAfrica it is totally unacceptablethat there is alaw that allows people to drink and then drive,” Creecy said. “I have never understood this, Icannot explain this to anyone who has lost aparent,a brother, asister, achild as aresult ofa road accident.”

BREATHALYSERSFORTAXIINDUSTRY

The South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) President Abnar Tsebe announced that breathalysers are to be installed in taxi vehicles “immediately”, with the focus on long-distance taxis “for now”, especially ahead of the Easter holidays.

Before ataxi driver takes atrip, they must complete abreathalyser testwhich will be linked to the vehicle. If it shows

the driver hasbeen drinking alcohol, the vehicle will notstart.

Tsebe said drivers must complete anotherbreathalyser test after drivinga certain number of kilometres andthere arecamerasystemsinvehicles “so we are able tomonitor thatthey are doingthe right thing.”

He added that whilst it will take a lengthy period to install breathalysersin alltaxivehicles, Santaco will be starting at thetaxiranks with its marshalls in collaboration withits taxi associations.

FESTIVESEASONSTATISTICS

REVEALALARMINGTRENDS

Preliminary data indicates a5% reductioninfatalities andaccidents during the latest festive season compared to the previousyear, with 1427 fatalities recorded from 1172 road accidents.

However, roadblocks during the festive season revealedconcerning statistics Officers conducted 1632 roadblocks and checked 1.8million vehicles, with 173 695 drivers tested for alcohol consumption. Of these, 8561 testedpositive, marking a 144% increase from thesame period the previous year.

The highest recorded blood-alcohol reading wasinKwaZulu-Natal, where onedriver tested 14 times above the legal limit.

Creecy noted that 40% of accidents occurred between 15 and28December and involved private vehicles on back routes

in theevenings.

“Thosefactors tell us that thesewere not travellers whowere moving to along distance destination. These wereparty revellers whohad accidents, serious accidentsthatresulted in several deaths,” sheexplained.

SUPPORTFORPOLICYCHANGES

The proposed changeshave received backingfrom various quarters. Kashifa Ancer, campaign managerofthe Rethink Your Drinkcampaign,welcomed the announcement.

“This is along-overduepolicy shift. Alcohol-related road deaths are predictable,and treatingthem as inevitable has costlives,” Ancer said.

The campaign noted thateach unit of alcohol consumedwithin an hour raises blood alcohol concentration by about 0.02g%, with additional units consumed quickly furtherincreasing injury risk

GOOD councillor andMayco member for economic development and spatial planninginTshwane, Sarah Mabotsa, alsoexpressedsupport for the proposed amendment.

“GOOD supports the callfrom the national ministeroftransport to amend Section 65 of the National Road Traffic Act so that driving after any drinking of alcohol is totally prohibited,” Mabotsa said.

“Alcohol is proven to slow down perceptionand response times for drivers, makingthe roads unsafe for drivers who drink, andunsafe for their passengers, other drivers, andpedestrians.”

Mabotsa highlightedthatwith11418 road deaths in 2025 andover 8500 drivers testingpositive for alcohol during the festive season,stronger measures are

needed.

“This amendment would bring South Africa's road safetystandards in line with those of Australia and many other countries where driving under the influence of alcohol is totally prohibited,” she added.

ROADTOIMPLEMENTATION

Thezero-tolerance policy proposal builds on previous efforts. In 2020, former transport minister Fikile Mbalula introduced the National Road Traffic Amendment Bill to Parliament, which included measures to eliminate bloodalcohol limits entirely.

However, despite parliamentary debate and consultations, the bill has not yet become law.

Creecy emphasised that taxisare not responsible for the majority of accidents, with only 7% of accidents involving taxis, although thereisalikelihood of multiple deaths in taxi accidents.

“The majority of accidents were private citizens travelling on minor roads after partying,” she said.

Reggae favourites live on stage

TheRivertones willperform their tributeshow ReggaeNight at Die Boertheatrerestaurant on Friday 6 February at 20:30featuringmusicfromBob Marley, UB40, andEddy Grant

TheRivertones areled by Roland Nair,who foundedthe Cape Town-based reggae band in 2006 Nair performed with Bob Marley's originalband, The Wailers, in Cape Town in 2009 and hastoured with BunnyWailer. Over hisfour-decade career,hehas performed with South AfricanartistsincludingPJ Powers,HughMasekela, andLuckyDube

Thebandsupported AliCampbell'sUB40 South Africantour in 2023 andregularlyperforms at festivals,venues, and events across thecountry. Theevening willfeaturereggae classics including Bob Marley's"One Love"and "No WomanNoCry", UB40's "Red RedWine" and"Kingston Town", and Eddy Grant's "Electric Avenue" and "GimmeHope Jo'anna" and more. Theperformance is part of The

Rivertones' tributetoreggae'sinfluentialartists and thegenre's global impact on music andculture Tickets cost R200 . Book at www.dieboer.com or on 021979 1911.

. Alan Committie's Av-a-laughta is currently on at Theatreonthe Bayuntil7February. Ticketsfrom R200toR350 at Webtickets.

.TheOpera Singer runs at the Baxter Studio from currentlyuntil 7February. Atheatrical and immersive experienceintothe worldofa creativespirit– alife dedicatedtoacraft,toperfectionand to ascension. TicketsfromR160atWebtickets.

.MarcLottering's musical comedy ColleenThe Musical runs at TheBaxter Theatrenow until7 February TicketscostR200toR320 at Webtickets.

.Summer Festivalatthe City Hall: Piazzolla and Pines featuring LotharHensel, oneofthe most sought afterbandoneon soloists in the music world, is on Thursday 29 Januaryat19:30.TicketsfromR190 to R450 at Webtickets.

. Pratibha Singh Baghel returns to Artscape forone night onlyonSaturday31Januaryat20:30, with Encore,anintimate, acoustic journeythrough ghazal, Bollywood, and contemporary classics, performed with a10-piece ensemble of India'sfinest musicians. TicketsfromR250atTicketmaster.

.TheCape Town PhilharmonicOrchestra is at the KirstenboschSummer Sunset Concert on Sunday 1 Februaryat17:30.Gates open at 16:00.Ticketsare R360 or R255(age6-21).BookatWebtickets.

. DanCorderpresents TheRealState of the Nation from Thursday 5toSaturday7 February at 20:00 at TheHomecoming Centre. TicketsfromR200at Webtickets.

. MilnertonPlayers is proudtopresent TheNight of January16,written by iconicwriter/philosopher Ayn Rand and directedbyveteran Johann vander Merwe, from 6to21Februaryatthe Milnerton Playhouse Theatre. TicketscostR150.Bookat www.milnertonplayers.co.zaoremail bookings@ milnertonplayers.com.

.GinWizard'sBlues, Brews& Rock nRoll is at HillcrestEstatefor NationalBeerDay on Saturday7 February. Doorsopen at 18:00.TicketscostR180 at Quicketand R200 at the door

. The1990romantic film Pretty Woman shows at the GalileoOpenAir Cinema at Zevenwacht Wine Estate on Saturday 7Februaryat20:15. Gatesopen at

17:00.TicketsfromR155 at Webtickets.

. Momentum is on Sunday 8Februaryat14:00 at TheHomecomingTheatre.Featuring rising stars acrossarangeofdancedisciplines and afreestyle roulette battle wheredancers willgohead-to-head TicketscostR200atQuicket

. Conrad Koch and Chester Missing’s PuppetPower runs from 10 to 14 February at Theatreonthe Bay. TicketsfromR180 at Webtickets

.Juan Boucher tree op Donderdag12Februarie om 19:30 by Kapstadt Brauhaus Bloubergop. Kaartjies vanafR265isbeskikbaarbyQuicket

.Yukio Mishima'saward-winning production The Lady Aoi is at Artscape from 14 to 21 February.Six performances only. TicketsfromR150 at Webtickets.

. Cape Town Operapresents Gershwin in the Park,a one-night-onlyconcert at the MaynardvilleOpen-Air FestivalonSunday 15 February.The showstartsat 18:30. TicketsfromR254atQuicket

. Jeremy Loops is at the KirstenboschSummer Concert on Sunday 15 February at 17:15.Ticketsare R360 or R255 (age 6-21). Book at Webtickets.

. Francoisvan Coke Acoustic is by Kapstadt Brauhaus Durbanville op Woensdag18Februarie om 20:00.Kaartjies vanafR200byQuicket

. UnderThe Mountain,a night of praise and worship withlocal artists and American BenFuller, is at Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden on Saturday21Februaryat19:00.TicketsR545atWebtickets.

. TheACappella Music Festival is at Artscape on Saturday21Februaryat13:00.TicketsfromR150 at Webtickets.

. Vusi Mahlaselaand JabulileMajola performatthe Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concert on Sunday 22 February at 17:15.TicketsR255(youth) or R360 at Webtickets.

. TheFirebird is at Artscape from Thursday19to Sunday 22 February.A fusion of puppetry and dance. TicketsfromR160 at Webtickets.

. TheNutcracker presented by Cape Ballet Africa is at the Artscape OperaHousefromWednesday25 February to Sunday 1March. TicketsfromR290at Webtickets.

. Die30steKKNKvind van28Maart tot4April in Oudtshoorn plaas. Besoek kknk.co.zavir dievolledige program. Bespreek kaartjies by Webticketsofdie KKNK-kantoor.

Jazz education strikes achord

Organisers of theannual KarooJazz Festival, the PrinceAlbertCommunityTrust (PACT), announced in December theexciting expanded scope of the Karoo Jazz Project (KJP)–ayear-rounddevelopmental initiativethatistransforming the musical and cultural landscape of theKaroo

TheKaroo Jazz Project,powered by PACT and supported by ProHelvetiaand the NasionaleAfrikaanse Teater Insiatief(Nati), continues to buildonits bold vision–todiscover, nurture, and developjazz talent within ruralKaroo communities.

This year pianist and composerPaul Hanmer joins long-term supporters of theproject,Ramon Alexander (one of the leading exponents of Cape Jazz), and LynettePetersen (OuteniquaHigh School’s jazz teacher andconductor), in unlocking musical potenal by bridging education, mentorship,and exposure.

“The KarooJazz Project isn’t just about learning scales andsongs in themonthsleading up to each J2Jfestival –it’sabout creating access,”saysHanmer “It’sabout givingyoung peoplefromPrinceAlbert, Leeu-Gamka, andbeyond, thetoolstoexpress themselves, to understandtheir heritage, and to speak the language of jazz with confidence.”

Traditionally,jazz practicehas been confinedto cities wheremusiciansand audiences thriveinlive performance spaces and experiencethe innerwork-

ingsof"music conversations" musicians have with one another through the art of improvisation.

Running parallel to the educational mission is the much-anticipated JourneytoJazz Festival, and at whichthe KJP willperform in May.

Thefestival has become an emblemofcultural connectionand youth empowerment,and every ticket sold directlysupports PACT’s ongoing work in training, upskilling, and employment creationacross the eventsindustryand othersectors.

TheJ2J 2026 line-up already includessome of SouthAfrica’smostrevered and innovativeartists, suchasVusi Mahlasela,Hanmer, Nomfundo Xaluva, YonelaMnana &The SoulteeSisters, and Amy Campbelland others. Twoveryspecial acts will be announced on 31 Januaryduring the JourneytoJazz Previewevent at TheDansvloerinthe Swartberg Mountain Pass.

With limitedaccommodation in PrinceAlbertand growing national interest, audiences areencouraged to secure their ticketsearly.

Thefestival takesplace from 30 April to 3May in PrinceAlbert

. TicketsareavailableonQuicketatR250per performance.

. FollowJourneytoJazzforupdatesandartist announcementsonsocialmedia.

Everystory buildsthe worldwewant to see

Hey partner. Breathe withme. Icall you partner because Idon’t see youasjust areader —Isee youas someone walkingwithme. We’ve done so successfullythis past year; we might as well keep walking. When Iask you to breathewith me, it’s an invitation to pause,not to perform. Rightnow, that pausefeels more important than ever Welcome to 2026. This is my first column for the year, and Ihope to share many “hey partner” moments with you. When asked where I’m from,Ijokingly say I’m acitizen of the world. December proved just that —Ispent mostofitonthe road betweencommunities:Zwelethemba in Worcester, Mdantsane in East London, New Brighton in Port Elizabeth, and KwaNokuthula in Plettenberg Bay

The roads blurred under the wheels, townsand townships passing like pages in abook Icouldn’t put down. As I travelled, Irealised that not everystory has aheadline. Some just make the heart lighter.

In many homes and streets, people would keep quiet in the face of injustice or share their thoughts, frustrations and hopes in hushed tones, carefully, as if testing whether it was safe to be heard. People aren’t silent becausethey don’t care.They’re often silent because, over generations, they’ve been taught that their voices don’t matter. Taught to doubt their worth, to normalise being ignored, to survive quietly. But in some spaces,

NOTICETHESMALL VICTORIESAROUNDYOU. SPEAKUPWHENYOUMUST. CELEBRATEWHENYOUCAN.

I’ve seen something different —something quietlyrevolutionary. People speaking up, insisting to be seen, heard, to matter In Zwelethemba, Imet agrandmother tendingacommunitygarden. Her hands were darkened by soil and sunlight, her voice soft but firm. She’d started the garden as asafe place for children. It wasn’t on the news. It didn’t go viral.Yet watching children harvest vegetables, their laughter spilling over fences —the power of small victories.

In Mdantsane, neighbours had cleaned the streets for Christmas —not because anyone asked them to, but becauseit mattered to their sense of dignity. One picked up aplastic bottle,another swept, others planted flowers. By afternoon, a street thathad felt forgotten looked alive again—care is contagious.

In New Brighton, Iwitnessed ayoung lady startareading circle in her yard. It began with three childrenand afew books. The children’s eyes light up with stories. —Small acts can ripple further than we imagine.

In KwaNokuthula, young, loud, and unapologetically joyful artists revitalised homes for low-income residents. With each brushstroke, houses told newstories of hope, colour and possibility. Thesemoments are everywhere —in gardens, streets, yards, neighbourhoods and kitchens. They’re about connection, resilience and humanity. They’reeveryday victories that don’t make headlines but remind us that healing begins when we speak, act, and notice each other. Your voice matters too. You don’t have to shout to be heard. If something feels wrong in your community, to speakto ajournalist, share your storybecause injustice thrives in silence, and everyday victories thrive when acknowledged.So partner, Iinvite you to breathe with me. Notice the small victories around you Speak up when you must. Celebratewhen you can. Connect when it matters.

—NAMHLA MONAKALI

Kommentaar // Comments

ONTPLOFFINGVAN KLEUR:‘n Leservan Durbanville hethierdie kleurvollefotovan die pragtige bougainvilleaopdie hoek vanDurbanwegenTindalestraat in Durbanville geneem–“sommeruit my motorbydie rooi verkeerslig”! FOTO:WYNANDTHERON

School’s rugbyinshambles

DF Malan High School's rugbyhas been nothing short of disastrous. Theschool that once prided itself on excellence andplayerdevelopmenthas allowedits rugby culturetocrumbleintoinconsistency,frustration,and outright unfairness.

Howisitpossiblethatsenior players —those who have invested years into this sport,attended every practise with dedication,and maintained peak fitness —are stilldenied agenuineopportunityto competefor aplace in thefirst team?

Howmanyseasons must pass before someone finally acknowledges the obvious?

Everyyearbrings newcoaches, newpromises, new “visions”, andyet the result remains the same: seniors pushed aside,notransparency,nostability, and no real progress. Insteadofbuilding astrongerprogramme, the constant turnoverhas draggedthe team from bad to worse.

Playerswho have proven their commitment areleft watching from the sidelines whilevague,inconsistent, andunexplained selection decisions arequietlymade

Inwonermoeg van plakkers se dinge

Ek hetallemoontlikhede probeer om die onwettige plakkersopdie munisipaliteit se erf 2465 in Soneike, Kuilsrivier, te verwyder Stad Kaapstad,wetstoepassers en die burgemeester vanKaapstad ignoreer my maandelikse pleidooie vanaf2018 toedie plakkers daar begin plak het. Watuitersontstellend, frustrerend, onaanvaarbaar en onbillikis, is die feit dat ek hoëmunisipalebelasting en diensgeldemoet betaal,terwyl dieStadKaapstad dieplakkerstoelaat om onwettig langsmyerf te plak Hulle verwyder ook niedie vullis watdie plakkers onwettiglik rondstrooi nie.

My pleidooi oor die veiligheid, gesondheid en brandgevaar watmyelkedag in die gesig staar,wordblatant deurdie Stad geïgnoreer

Myverwysingsnommers vir klagteshelp niejuis baie nie

Onwettigeplakkers vermeerder onder die aandag vandie Stad en wetstoepassingsbeamptes

Ek daagdie Stad en die burgermeester uit om hierdie feitlike skrewe te komtoets.

J.J.CLOETE ,Soneike

.TygerBurgerhet die briefaan die Stad Kaapstad gerigvir kommentaar,maar hetteen druktydnog geen terugvoering ontvang nie

behind closed doors, tolerating negativeinfluences of parents which shouldbeentertained. It is beyond unfair —itisdemoralising.

What messagedoes this send to the young athletes who have proudlycarried the school’s colours?That hard work counts fornothing? That showing up,stayingfit, andgivingyour allmakes no difference? That politics outweigh performance?

Theschool owes theseboys—and the entirerugby community—far better.

Theschool cannotcontinue to project apolished public image while ignoringthe growing frustration amongplayers andsupporters.

Tr is tial. Co ist yi ential.

Bejaardes waarsku

teen e-taxi’s

Wees versigtig vir e-taxi’s! Vandeesweek is twee 80-jarigemensenadie Bellville-gemeenskapskliniek met’ne-taxidiens vervoer.

Die man het sy selfoon in die motor vergeet.Hyhet dit nie teruggekrynie Hulle is latermet ‘n ander e-taxihuis toe. By navraaghet die bestuurder beweer hulle het nie betaal virdie reis nie!

KARIN VOLLENSTEE, Boston

Acallforhelptosave AfricanPenguins

KAILINDANIELS

KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

The ExecutiveMayor of Cape Town, Geordin Hill-Lewis, recently attended aspecial release event with the Southern African Foundation forthe Conservation of Coastal Birds (Sanccob), standing alongside the dedicated team working tirelessly to save the critically endangered African Penguin.

On 20 January,celebrated as Penguin Awareness Day, Sanccob ambassador Martine Viljoen spent time feeding the critically endangered African Penguins in care,underlining the essential, ongoing efforts required to nurture their recovery and survival.

Adult penguins require between six and 10 fish per day to thrive, demonstrating howvital consistent care and feeding are.

PENGUINAWARENESSDAY

Releases of rehabilitated penguins are powerful symbols of hope, but Sanccob stresses that real conservation success demands ongoing support.

“Releases are more than moments —they show what’s possible when leadership, science, and public support worktogether,” said a Sanccobrepresentative.

SANCCOBWARNS

OF BIRD FLUIN PENGUIN POPULATION

To encourage public participation in this vital mission,Sanccob is inviting donations to help feed penguins in their care.

Thosewho donate aminimum of R150 standachance to win a luxury one-night stayfor two, including breakfast, courtesy of TheOyster Collection

THREATSFROMBIRDFLU

AfricanPenguins are currently facing severechallenges from an outbreakofHighPathogenicity Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as Bird Flu.

Since September 2025, 23 African Penguins have tested positive, with at least nine confirmeddeaths amongwild populations.

The disease hascaused widespread mortalityamong seabirds alongSouth Africa’s coastline, including species suchas Common Terns, Hartlaub’s Gulls, GreatWhite Pelicans, and various cormorants.

Bird Flu severelyaffects the brain, causing unusual behaviour, twitches, andseizures.

While the risk to humans remains low if basic precautions are followed, Sanccob urges the public nottotouch sickordead birds andtoreportsightings immediately.

COMMUNITYVIGILANCECRITICAL TOPENGUINSURVIVAL

Sanccob is workingclosely with State Veterinary Services and conservationauthorities to monitor thespread of HPAI and protect vulnerable seabird populations. Public reporting of sickordeceasedbirds greatly assist surveillanceefforts.

If you encounter aseabird that appears ill, injured, unusually tame,ordeceased, do nottouch it. Instead, report it immediately to Sanccob or the relevant authorities. The public can submit sightings via an onlinereporting form hereorcontact Sanccob directly.

TRACKINGTHEOUTBREAK

Up-to-dateinformation aboutthe bird flu outbreak andits impact on seabirds,including African Penguins,isavailable through an onlinedashboard hosted by theDepartmentofEnvironment Affairs.

. Visithttps://dea-surveys.maps. arcgis.com/apps

Marketfoundations‘moresolid’

Property professionals are predicting ayear of strategic opportunity for South Africa’s property market in 2026, following aperiod of market recalibration in 2025. Interest rates havestabilised, investor confidenceisclimbing, and activity is picking up across residential, rental, and commercial sectors, according to industry experts.

Aftertwo interest rate cuts in 2025 brought breathing room to the market, property finance specialists say the foundations are now more solid than they have been in some time. “2026 is starting on stronger footing,” says Leonard Kondowe, national manager for Rawson Finance. “We’re seeing encouraging signs in areas like transport, energy,and inflation control. It’s still acomplex global picture, but locally, the foundations are more solid than they’ve been in some time.” Banks have responded with renewed competitiveness, offering attractive interest rate concessions,100% bond approvals, and meaningful discounts on legal fees to qualifyingbuyers.

However, Kondowe warns that affordability challenges haven’t disappeared entirely. “There’s still often asignificant gap between what people hope they can borrow and what they’re actually approved for,” he notes.

PREPARETHOROUGHLY

With conditionsgradually improving,propertyexperts say 2026offersbuyers achanceto make real progress if they come tothe table prepared.

“Prequalificationisn’tjust a formality anymore —it’s the starting point for any serious buyer,” says Craig Mott, national sales manager at the Rawson PropertyGroup. “It givesyou clarity, strengthens your offers, andhelps agents match you with the right properties faster.”

Kondowe advises buyers to build up apositivecredit record,

start saving towards adeposit, and avoid taking on new debt once they’ve started the bond process. He alsocautions against maximising budgets even with bondapproval. “Justbecause you’reapproved doesn’t mean you should max outyour budget. Leave room for rising costs —whetherit’sinterest rate adjustments, levies, or maintenance.”

SELLERS:FOCUSONPRESENTATION

In 2026’svalue-conscious environment,sellers cannot

afford to rely on outdated assumptions, according to property professionals.

“Smart sellers are getting their properties valuation-ready from day one,” says Mott.

“That means fixing visible defects, creating astrong first impression, and pricing in linewith market reality—not wishfulthinking.”

Today’s buyers are focused on long-term value, examining energy efficiency, fibre availability, running costs, and security before making decisions.

RENTALMARKETSHOWSSTEADY MOMENTUM

Therental market demonstrated impressive consistency in 2025, with momentum expected to continue in 2026, particularly in well-connected areas outside traditional metros where remotework continues to drive migration.

“We’ve seen steady growth across the board,” says Jacqui Savage, national rentals manager at the Rawson Property Group.

“Demand is strong, especially in well-connected neighbourhoods outside the traditional metros.”

However, Savage notes that security, fibre, and overall property condition are no longer optional for landlords seeking quality tenants and premium rent

“Late payments are creeping up,” Savage observes, emphasising that thorough tenant vetting and compliance with Fica regulations remain essential.

SUCCESSREQUIRESPREPARATION

Property experts agree that whilst2025 was about market recalibration, 2026 will favour thosewho are prepared.

“Opportunities are always out there,”says Mott, “but you need to be ready to take them. Planning early, pricing realistically, and being open to expert advice —that’swhat sets the successful clients apart.”

PSYCHIC MIA

2deHandse Meubels. 083310 1081

(en baie meer) Johan 074 474 4275

Theformer Fast FiveProteaplayerAmber Coraizin,head of netballatFairmont High School,isone of the ambassadors of the DNL Tournament and NetballDevelopmentProgramme and willbeplaying in the exhibition matches on Fridayand Saturday.She will also be part of theGoalgetters programme forthree to fiveyearolds.

Futurestars takecourt

The annual DNL Netball Tournament has been launchedthis week by the DNL NetballDevelopment Programme 2026.

The tournament, apowerful platform dedicated to the development ofthe youth andwomen, education, and community upliftment through sport,will open with agala opening and fundraising event on Thursday 5February at Fairmont High SchoolinDurbanville.

The tournament this year will welcome 30 elite players and mentors from across South Africa, who will engage with local teams throughout thetournament.

BRIDGESGAP

This mentorship model bridges the gap between elite athletes and aspiring young players, inspiring thenext generation of women in sport, says Dr Freda Kemp, founder and director of the DNL Tournamentand Netball Development Programme.

Tournament matches will take place on Friday 6and Saturday 7February and will be broadcasted live on SuperSportSchools, allowing viewers across South Africa to experience women’s sport at itsbest.

"The DNL Netball Development Programme integrates structured sport development with education and social impact.

“The initiative provides young women andchildren with access to quality coaching, mentorship, and leadership opportunities, while addressing barriers such as geography and financial constraints," says Kemp.

"This tournament is more than a competition, itsgiving coaches the chance to settle their teams for theseason. We willhave the privilege to see the best players in Cape Town and someelite players from Gauteng thatwenormally

Boulers laat kolwers

Die boulershet diebotoon gevoer in die jongste reekseersteliga-krieketwedstrydedie afgelope naweek in dieWP.

behoorlik bontstaan

ELITE PLAYERS, MENTORS FROM ACROSS SA TO ENGAGEWITH LOCALTEAMS

only see in the Telkom netball league. They will be accompanied by Rozanne Matthyse and Dr Elsje Jordaan, coaches of Jaguars and Fireballs respectively.

"On Fridayevening andSaturdaythere will be two exhibitionmatches and we inviteall netball enthusiasts to the events," shesays

EXCITINGMILESTONE

The 2026 programme marks an exciting milestone with the support of GEA, a globaltechnology suppliertothe food, beverage andhealthcare industries, a companylisted on the German DAX. Stadio University joins as an official sponsor of the u-19 division, expanding access to training andcompetitive opportunities for young netball players across South Africa. 3Cube Management Fast 3willalso come on board as akey partner, addingnational visibility and dynamic energy to the tournament

This year’s event is officially endorsed by the Cape Town Netball Federation, reinforcing its commitment to the growth and professionalisation of both community-level and elite netball across the region.All funds raised will assist Cape Town players to attend the Spar National Championships, ensuring talented athletes can represent their province on anational stage

The Goalgetters divisionofthe tournament, ledbyLuhandri van der Merwe, focuses on early childhood development, introducing foundational motorskills, teamwork, andhealthy living habitsthroughsport andplay.

Geen Tygerbergsespankon by die 200-merk uitkomnie.Cravenby, KraaifonteinenTygerberg-klub wasaan diewenkant in hulonderskeie wedstryde.

Tygerbergsesegeoor Strandfontein (161) is moontlik gemaak danksy Bjorn Hollenbach(61)en Ansley Adams(4/30), terwyl Kraaifontein (158) die span vanEdgemead (144) naelskraapgewen het met bydraes deur JJ Fourie(44) en Ismael September (3/24) –SAREL BURGER